Erik Aanderaa · video

What this video covers

A solo sailor crosses the North Sea from Norway to the Orkney Islands, covering 250 nautical miles in a single-handed passage. The voyage begins in light headwinds, but conditions deteriorate into 30-knot gusts and five-to-six-meter seas. The sailor manages the boat, named Tessie, through the heavy weather by reefing the mainsail and headsail, noting that the autopilot struggles under the load of the high winds.11:59 During the peak of the storm, the sailor experiences severe seasickness, which subsides only after exposure to fresh air on deck.18:19 Navigation aids include a Raymarine daylight camera, an Oscar thermal camera, and a rugged SailProof SP 8-inch tablet.7:22 Upon arrival at the Orkney Islands, the sailor encounters a two-knot adverse current while entering the harbor at Kirkwall.23:04 The passage concludes with a brief historical overview of the Churchill Barriers and Scapa Flow, followed by sightseeing in Kirkwall, Stromness, and the Ring of Brodgar.

More from Erik Aanderaa

This sail is a GAMECHANGER onboard Tessie!Jun 2026This boat is CRAZY! Will Silje SURVIVE?May 2026Sailing in a GALE for 30 minutes- UNEDITED!Apr 2026I would've NEVER had sailed if I knew THIS!Apr 2026

From Erik Aanderaa — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.