Erik Aanderaavideo

Sailing Around an Icelandic VOLCANO I Chapter 5

January 6, 2023 · 23 min · 121K views · Reykjavik

What this video covers

Erik Aanderaa sails his 46-year-old Contessa 35, *Tessie*, from Reykjavik to Grundafjordur, Iceland, a 105-nautical-mile passage.2:33 The route requires navigating around the Snæfellsjökull volcano, where the crew encounters challenging upwind conditions and shifting winds that force constant tacking.14:42 During the 24-hour transit, wind speeds fluctuate from 8 knots to nearly 30 knots, necessitating multiple reefing adjustments to the mainsail.11:24 The passage involves significant physical strain, as the solo sailor manages the boat while recovering from recent health issues.0:14 After 22 hours without sleep, the wind dies, requiring the use of the engine to complete the final approach into the bay of Grundafjordur.18:15 The vessel arrives at a concrete floating pier beneath the Kirkjufell mountain.21:52 This leg serves as a final stop in Iceland before a planned attempt to reach Scoresby Sound, Greenland.22:45 The experience highlights the necessity of managing fatigue and maintaining boat balance through frequent sail changes during unpredictable coastal weather.

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Boats in this video

Contessa 35Their boat

More from Erik Aanderaa

I'm sailing ALONE towards the North Pole! - Chapter 1Sep 2026Sailing Towards the North Pole - TrailerSep 2026This sail is a GAMECHANGER onboard Tessie!Jun 2026This boat is CRAZY! Will Silje SURVIVE?May 2026

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