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High Arctic Landfall | Sailing Florence Ep.216

October 9, 2025 · 31 min · 55K views · Svalbard

Sailing vessel Florence drifts near a calving glacier in the High Arctic.

What this video covers

The 37-ft Oyster Marine 37 HERITAGE arrives in Svalbard, Norway, after a 2,242-mile voyage from mainland Europe. The crew navigates the final 120-mile approach from Hornsen to Longyearbyen in light winds, often relying on the engine to maintain progress.16:28 Upon arrival, the vessel docks in Longyearbyen, where the crew rafts alongside other yachts.21:24 Entry into Svalbard requires a pre-approved permit, applied for months in advance, which dictates the cruising area and determines search and rescue insurance requirements.24:39 The crew checks in with the governor’s office to verify passports and secure a rifle for polar bear protection, a mandatory safety measure for travel outside the main settlement.24:16 Regulations in Svalbard strictly limit alcohol purchases for visiting sailors, though the town hosts the world’s northernmost brewery.27:14 The crew provisions at local supermarkets, noting high costs due to imported goods, and prepares for further exploration of the fjords.27:11

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Boats in this video

Oyster Marine 37 HERITAGETheir boat

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