General information about sailing in Norway
Navigation
Navigation in the costal waters in Norway can be a demanding exercise, both due to topography and the variable climatic condition. Navigation skills and trust in own capabilities are required. By being prepared and organised you will have a safe and pleasant journey under all conditions.
Norwegian nautical charts
Norwegian charts are of high quality and comprehensive to read. Most paper charts on board fleet refers to WGS-84. Some exceptions for charts produced before 1992. For more information regarding charts and datums, please follow the link to The Norwegian Mapping Authority.
Tidal water
Tidal water and current are factors to consider for sail boats. The approximate difference between mean high and low water range from 0,4 m to 2 m (in the southern part), depending on port. The range can under some conditions almost the double. Please consult Tide Tables on board or download up to date information HERE.
Tidal streams
When sailing in the fjords of Norway tidal currents needs to be taken into consideration. Generally the tidal current is north going on flood and south-going on ebb. However, this is not always the case. Please consult Den Norsk Los for details for each area.
Sailing with the current always gives a better atmosphere on board than going against it!
Wind
Wind conditions varies through the year. The roughest time for sailing is normally from October to January. The rest of the year, storms are rare and short lasting.
The fjords of northern Norway offers alternative and protected routes which allow you to plan a comfortable journey, in any weather conditions.
Fall Wind
Due to the topography, steep mountains and the many fjords, fall winds (the phenomena Fall Wind is a wind that accelerates as it moves downslope from a mountain because of its low temperature and greater density) may hit on very short notice, even in a calm and sunny day. Often but not always, fall winds develops in easterly winds on the coast of Norway. These winds can be dangerous, the few second they last. Observe and try to avoid this situation.
Weather Forecast
Always get the latest weather forecast. The quality of the marine weather forecast is generally high and accurate and it can be obtained from many sources. Make yourself familiar with your preferred source.
Two important sources are marine VHF and Norwegian radio. Over VHF the weather forecast are broadcasted daily at 0600, 0900, 1200, 1500 and 1800. First in Norwegian, followed by broadcast in English. Norwegian Broadcasting (radio) has frequent updates, however they are in Norwegian.
For internet users, please make yourself familiar with the weather forecast from www.yr.no , or if you have a GSM supporting 3G use; http://m.yr.no/
Underwater rocks and shallow areas
Most fjords and areas will always give you enough free water under the keel. However some areas will demand more attention. The charts are marked with the safe waterways (Farled). Pay attention to these navigation marks and follow them!
Equipment on board
Theyacht have up-to date navigation equipments. Please make yourself familiar with charts, pilot books, chart-plotter, radar and other equipment before the trip starts.
With these simple advices, we hope that you will have a safe and comfortable journey. More details are in the pilot books available on board in all boats. And please do not hesitate to contact us!
Safe Journey!