Sailing Polaris · video

What this video covers

A 46-foot yacht, Polaris, navigates spring gale windows in Lofoten, Norway, in late April, moving between harbors while snow squalls and 40-plus-knot winds dictate the schedule.▶ 0:01 Daniel and Kathrin hike the historic Fiskesti trail from Nusfjord to Østre Nesland — a 2.5-hour route over wet rock, snow, mud, and a steep ladder section officially rated easy-to-moderate — before slipping lines to reach Ballstad, seven nautical miles away, crossing Nappstraumen, a sound known for strong currents and dangerous wave conditions at the wrong tidal state.▶ 0:54 At Ballstad, they reposition Polaris bow-into the forecast southwest gale, which peaks at 55 knots inside the harbor over four days of rain and snow.▶ 9:33 When the gale clears, they plan a 35-nautical-mile crossing of Vestfjorden to Norskot, motoring in near-calm conditions.▶ 11:30 Daniel uses PredictWind to compare ECMWF, AIFS, UK Met Office, and ICANN models, all showing under five knots for the passage window.▶ 12:53 Shallow 40-meter water near Ballstad produces choppier-than-expected seas despite light wind.▶ 14:45 A new gale warning issued mid-crossing threatens to close the window before they reach the far shore.▶ 15:26

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