HORNSTRANDIR WILDERNESS SAILBOAT-POWERED SKIING

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Leslie Fisher
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HORNSTRANDIR WILDERNESS SAILBOAT-POWERED SKIING Arctic Backcountry Skiing with the Aurora Iceland s West Fjords region is one of the country s most remote areas and offers endless outdoor pursuits in

1 HORNSTRANDIR WILDERNESS SAILBOAT-POWERED SKIING Arctic Backcountry Skiing with the Aurora Iceland s West Fjords region is one of the country s most remote areas and offers endless outdoor pursuits in its mountains, sheltered fjords and bays. Aurora s favourite area in the West Fjords is the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, with its rich history and unspoilt landscapes. The area is virtually inaccessible. There are no roads in the nature reserve the only way to venture there is by boat. Due to its remote location, at the Arctic Circle, it is very possible to stay there for days without meeting a single soul. The expedition yacht, the Aurora, will provide us with exclusive access to this breath-taking place and will allow us to literally pick our ski lines depending on the whims and desires of the group. By sailing into the reserve, sleeping at bay, and exploring the inlets that pique your curiosity, you will be blessed to experience the essence of remote Iceland and the opportunity to ski world-class terrain. The fjords here are deep and dramatic, marine and aviary life flourish, and an abundance of silence and unexplored landscapes abound for the curious and adventurous explorer. TRIP PROFILE This trip is a true Arctic Expedition to the beautiful Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the West Fjords of Iceland only a few miles from the Arctic Circle. We focus on backcountry skiing between the remote fjords, anchoring in a different anchorage each night. Many of the mountains and ridges have never been skied before and our guides are always looking for nice first descents. There is a diversity of slope grades, and we will plan our routes to fit people of all backcountry touring abilities and interests. Most people use AT (randonnée) or Telemark skis, but snowboards, cross-country skis or snowshoes can be used as well. While we usually spend about 6-8 hours in the mountains each day, for those who prefer shorter days, individuals can simply ski down to the anchored boat when they so choose. While the season is primetime for skiing, we will still carry a few kayaks and SUP s on the yacht for those eager or interested in taking a break from skiing and doing some paddling as well (please enquire about the kayaks or SUP s). This is not a sailing trip. We will of course cruise under sail whenever conditions allow but the Expedition sailboat Aurora primarily serves as our movable backcountry hut, the best option to

2 access interesting and exciting destinations and enjoy great activities on land and at sea. At the end of the day she will await us with gourmet meals, warm and comfortable bunks, and friendly conversation. ITINERARY Even though we may not be far from home, this is still true exploration and the final itinerary will only be decided upon when we leave Ísafjörður harbour. Below is the most likely itinerary, but we will take into account weather and snow-conditions and always look for the best possible option. Day 1 Departure from Ísafjörður will take place at 19:00, with 2-4 hours of sailing to Hesteyri in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. Upon arriving in the reserve, we will relax at anchor and maybe do some exploration on the Zodiac and take a look at the old whaling station that once was the driving force in this now abandoned settlement. Since it will still be bright in the evening during the latter part of the season, for later trips we will have an option to do a short ski run. Day 2 We'll begin the day with safety briefing, avalanche search exercise and an explanation of what to do in case of emergency. We will then ski from Hesteyrarfjörður to Veiðileysufjörður (fjord with no fish!). The climb up Hesteyrarfjörður is very easy and the ski slopes on the other side offer many possibilities. We may end the day by skiing the steepest slope of the trip, in steepness (of course this is optional you can head down to the yacht if you prefer!). Dinner will be at anchor in Veiðileysufjörður. Day 3 We will ski to Lónafjörður (lagoon fjord). We may begin the day by climbing up to one of the cols to take a look at the bays on the north-east side. We then ski down to the first valley in Lónafjörður and may even climb two more mountains before meeting Aurora again in the evening. Day 4 Here, we normally spend an extra day at the beautiful Rangali anchorage. Here are endless opportunities for skiing. From steep couloirs to rolling hills. One route will take us to the Snókur Mountain with a good view of the coastal mountains on the east side of Hornstrandir. Often there is an opportunity to pick mussels for après ski! Day 5 Today we skin up from the Sópandi inlet and over to Hrafnfjörður (Raven Fjord). The mountain cirque at the head of the fjord is very beautiful and the anchorage is a perfect spot to spend the night. Day 6 We will have a morning ski session before sailing back to Ísafjörður, with arrival around 16:00 in the afternoon. You can catch the last flight from Ísafjörður that night, though we suggest staying at least one night in Ísafjörður to relax and get to know this old and beautiful town. WEATHER Iceland is a land of very mixed weather. As they say, if you don t like the weather, wait for ten minutes! March is still proper winter in Iceland. Weather can be stormy but also beautifully sunny

3 with fresh powder snow. Usually the spring (April-May) brings higher pressure and settled weather and snow conditions will usually be nice spring-corn towards the end of the season. But be prepared for everything from dead calm and sunny days to blowing blizzards. TRAVELLING TO ÍSAFJÖRÐUR There are a few airlines with scheduled flights into Iceland. Check their websites for prices and schedules. From the domestic airport in Reykjavík, there are 2-3 daily 40-minute flights to Ísafjörður. You can take the Fly-Bus ( ) between the airports and, depending on flight arrivals and departures; it may be possible to continue onwards to Ísafjörður the same day. Browse Air Iceland ( ) for schedules and special offers. You can also rent a car and drive to Ísafjörður. The drive is 450 km (on paved roads in its entirety), and normally takes approximately six hours. We strongly recommend spending a few extra days visiting the West Fjords near Ísafjörður as well as other parts of Iceland. We are happy to help you plan your trip in more detail. Please arrive in Ísafjörður ahead of our planned sailing time of (7pm) to meet the crew, stow your gear aboard our yacht and pick up any last minute supplies. Arrival transfers are included from Ísafjörður Airport to the harbour. Let us know in advance your arrival time in Ísafjörður so we can arrange to pick you up. FINISHING POINT Ísafjörður Harbour. Transfer to Ísafjörður airport included if leaving the same day. A cheap Fly-Bus is available for those staying extra days in the area. SAILING YACHT AURORA The yacht is a 60 foot sloop built by Colvic Craft in the UK in She was designed by David Pedrick for the Clipper Round the World Race and has been raced around the world four times. Aurora s previous owner, Clipper Ventures Plc (based in Gosport, UK), was founded by the legendary sailor, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who in 1969 became the first person to singlehandedly sail around the world non-stop. Sir Robin was in Ísafjörður and on the yacht (then named Antiope Clipper) in the summer of 2005, together with Sir Chris Bonington and other friends, en route to Greenland. Over some chicken curry and beer on-board, we decided to fulfill an old dream and buy the yacht! Accommodation is seamanlike simple and utilitarian but the vessel is very sturdy and spacious.there are ten single berths, one of which can be turned into a double. Sleeping bags are required for this expedition. The yacht has good heaters, hot and cold water, good galley and spacious communal areas, two heads (toilets) and one shower. There is 220V electricity to charge batteries and other electronic devices. The vessel was initially fitted out for 15 crew, but can now accommodate 12 people 2 crew and 10 guests. The boat is equipped according to strict Icelandic regulations in regards to emergency equipment.

4 ACTIVITIES INCLUDED This is a list of included activities on this trip. Airport transfer in Ísafjörður 6 days (5 nights) on a yacht Sailing instruction Services of guides and crew Guided backcountry skiing Use of sea kayaks or SUP s amongst the fjords (optional, please enquire) Use of wet weather sailing clothing All meals for the duration of the trip. Dinner is not served the first day. Alcohol is not included. ACCOMMODATION AND TRANSFER Aurora-Arktika can help with arranging accommodation in Reykjavík, please enquire. For accommodation in Ísafjörður, we recommend Gamla Guesthouse ( in the centre of town. Good atmosphere in an old refurbished house. Also Hotel Isafjordur, a modern hotel with all amenities ( Please mention that you re coming on a trip with us in order to receive a 15% discount. COMMUNICATION There is good mobile phone coverage and internet service in Ísafjörður. Mobile coverage is not good where we travel, though most days there is reception on the mountain tops! On board, Aurora will have a satellite phone that can be used for urgent calls or s. SEA SICKNESS We only sail short distances during this trip, and sea sickness has not proven to be problematic. Still, it s a good idea to bring medication if you know you are prone to seasickness or you think it will be helpful. BOOKING CONDITIONS AND INSURANCES The Aurora-Arktika s trips/voyages are of an adventurous nature given the relatively remote places throughout Iceland, Greenland and beyond that we travel. Aurora-Arktika makes its best effort to stick to the planned itinerary, but participants should appreciate and acknowledge that the trip/voyage requires considerable flexibility. Further, given the unpredictability of travel in such locations, the captain or Aurora-Arktika cannot be held responsible for incidents, accidents or physical injuries.the company and captain of the vessel reserve the right to adjust the itinerary without notice for reasons beyond their control, such as weather, ice-conditions or other unpredictable or unforeseeable circumstances. Upon departure, the captain will have the final say on all decisions affecting safety, etc., and this must be accepted by all participants. Sailing and other outdoor activities in the trips can be dangerous and require an average level of fitness and good health. It is the responsibility of all participants to ensure that they obtain proper and detailed medical advice.

5 In case of a medical problem arising during the voyage, either on-board or onshore, which results in medical expenses including but not limited to costs for evacuation with use of aircraft or boat and repatriation the responsibility for payment of these costs belongs solely to the respective participant. We require that the participants ensure that such eventualities are covered by travel insurance. If for any reason an incident is not covered by travel insurance, the responsibility still remains with the participant. Be aware that a normal travel policy may not cover you for some geographical areas that we travel and there may be exclusions for what they describe as "hazardous sports," which may include sailing, climbing, skiing and diving (especially in remote areas). Before arrival, participants must provide the name, address and telephone numbers for emergency contacts who can be reached should it prove necessary. Any personal belongings taken on-board the yacht by participants are taken entirely at the participants risk. As such, Aurora-Arktika shall not be liable for any loss or damage occurring to them. VISAS No visa is required for trips to Iceland of up to 3 months for most nationalities. Please check with your consulate in advance of your proposed travel date. HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience. If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Aurora-Arktika reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore ask that you read the itinerary in these trip notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts. PHYSICAL PREPARATION While no specific physical preparation is required for this voyage, to get the most out of the land and sea activities, a better than average fitness level is recommended. We recommend that you undertake regular aerobic exercise in the weeks before you travel, particularly if you are not in the habit of regular exercise. And of course the best way to get into shape for skiing... is skiing! ISSUES ON YOUR TRIP While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or the captain straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and mitigate any potential negative impacts during the rest of your trip. YOUR FELLOW TRAVELLERS

6 As you travel in a group trip you will be exposed to both the pleasures and as well the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and are likely to cover a range of age groups. We ask that you be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember that you have certain responsibilities to the group. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well this only takes a little effort on your part. Please note that due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. GROUP LEADER From departure from Ísafjörður until our yacht docks again in Ísafjörður, you are accompanied by knowledgeable yachtsmen, backcountry ski guides and outdoor adventure specialists. Experienced in sailing, skiing, mountaineering and kayaking, rest assured that you are in very capable hands. RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. LAUNDRY There is no laundry service on this expedition, but given the hot water on board, you can wash clothes occasionally, if needed. Laundry service is available in Ísafjörður. SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST Skis, boots, skins, poles, ski-crampons, shovel, avalanche beacon and probe. It s mandatory to carry avalanche gear (climbing gear such as ice axes, crampons, harness etc is normally not needed but if you like to explore some steep terrain please bring it!). Thermal underwear, at least two sets Wool or fleece thermal mid layer, take few thin layers instead of few thick ones. Hiking pants. We recommend no cotton clothing as cotton takes a long time to dry if wet. Thermal jacket (down or synthetic) optional Waterproof and breathable pants and jacket Wool/fleece hat Two pairs of gloves and one pair of mittens 3 to 4 pairs thick wool/synthetic socks and 2 to 3 pairs thinner socks Casual clothes for happy hour! Boat shoes or slippers with rubber soles for below decks Sleeping bag (summer rated is enough) Soft travel bag (no hard suitcases) Dark sun glasses Sunscreen / after sunscreen and sun hat Swim suit and towels

7 Small backpack (30-40 litres) Personal medical kit to include personal medication, band-aids, throat lozenges, lip salves, sea-sickness tablets, etc. Don't forget regular medication you may need (e.g. Asthma, bring your inhaler, even if you do not always need it). 1 litre water bottle and/or thermos...and don't forget your camera! PLEASE NOTE! Take your ski boots in hand luggage (if possible) because skis can get lost in air freight. It s pretty easy to arrange skis but it s better to have your own boots. FOOD We take great pride in the food we serve on board Aurora and use local produce and ingredients as much as we can. Local fish and lamb are common dinners and often berries and rhubarb pies for desserts. We can cater for vegetarians and guests with dietary restrictions. Please let us know in advance. It s a good idea to take some of your own dietary substitutes if you have a specialist diet. Welcome aboard!

ICELAND SKI & SAIL TRIP PACKET

ICELAND SKI & SAIL TRIP PACKET Dear Parents- We are beyond excited to share backcountry skiing in Iceland with your daughters. In addition to your girls, we will have 1 or 2 local Icelandic girls joining