Sailing and Boat Tours in the Faroe Islands
Available Sailing and Boat Tours
Learn More About Sailing and Boat Tours in the Faroe Islands
Because of the sapphire water ringed by 300-meter cliffs, sailing and boat tours in the Faroe Islands feel like entering a private chapter of the North Atlantic. The islands’ coastlines curve in ways, with sheer walls giving way to hidden grottoes, and every turn reveals another turf-roofed village tucked under emerald ridges.
Most travelers begin with a classic Vestmanna sea cliff cruise. Your skipper idles beneath towering basalt spires, edging so close you can hear fulmars rustle on their ledges. On calm days, the boat noses into wave-carved arches, the engine falls silent, and you drift in cathedral-quiet chambers lit by reflected turquoise.
If you prefer wind over engine hum, sign up for a traditional Faroese sloop sailing from Tórshavn. These wooden boats, cousins to Iceland’s old herring cutters, catch Atlantic breezes as soon as the harbor buoys slip past. Crews encourage guests to hoist canvas and trim sheets while seabirds draft their wake. On a clear evening, you might anchor in a glass-smooth cove and share hot rhubarb cordial—an island staple—with crew who describe how their grandparents once carried wool and mail along these same routes.
Thrill-seekers should look at RIB safaris that sprint across Skopunarfjørður to view the spray-lashed sea stacks of Sandoy. Dressed in thermal suits, you’ll skim white caps, pivot hard into sea caves, and still disembark dry enough for a café stop in Sandur. Families, meanwhile, love gentle fjord cruises to Saksun or Kaldbaksfjørður, where playful porpoises often escort the boat, and the stubby peak of Sornfelli stands sentinel inland.
Most Common Questions About Sailing and Boat Tours in the Faroe Islands
Which boat tours in the Faroe Islands are most popular with first-time visitors?
The Vestmanna sea cliff cruise tops the list for its dramatic basalt walls and bird colonies, closely followed by fjord cruises to Saksun and Kaldbaksfjørður, offering tranquil scenery.
Are Faroe Islands boat tours suitable for families with young children?
Absolutely. Operators supply child-size life jackets and choose sheltered fjords or slow-cruising routes. RIB safaris usually require a minimum height of 120 cm.
Do Faroese boat tours operate in poor weather?
Captains check wind, swell, and visibility hourly. If seas exceed safety limits, tours are postponed or rerouted to protected fjords at no extra cost.
Can I charter a private yacht in the Faroe Islands?
Yes. Local marinas in Tórshavn and Klaksvík list skippered yachts for full-day or multi-day charters, ideal for customized itineraries and photography trips.
Do sailing tours include food or refreshments?
Short cruises usually serve coffee and homemade pastries; more extended yacht charters offer onboard lunches featuring fresh Faroese seafood.
Are cameras safe from sea spray on boat excursions?
Bring a waterproof pouch or dry bag. Spray can be heavy near cliffs and during RIB rides. Many skippers pause in calm coves for safe photo sessions.
How far in advance should I book Faroe Islands boat tours?
For peak summer dates, secure tickets two to four weeks ahead—especially for Vestmanna, RIB safaris, and traditional sloop sailings, which cap group sizes.
Can I book a traditional wooden sloop for a sailing trip from Tórshavn?
Yes. Heritage sloops leave the capital harbor most afternoons, letting guests hoist canvas and learn Faroese “sigling” skills on two- to three-hour trips.
What is the best season for sailing tours in the Faroe Islands?
From late May to early September, the weather offers calmer swells, longer daylight hours, and daily departures. June and July are the busiest months, so reserve early if you want prime sailing dates.
What should I wear on a Faroe Islands sailing tour?
Layer a merino base, a fleece mid-layer, and a windproof shell. Waterproof trousers and non-slip shoes keep you comfortable in Atlantic spray; bring gloves even in midsummer.
What is a Faroe Islands RIB safari, and who is it for?
A Rigid Inflatable Boat safari is a high-speed ride to sea stacks and caves such as Sandoy’s Skúgvoy cliffs. It appeals to thrill-seekers comfortable with bumpy seas.
Are whale-watching boat tours available around the Faroe Islands?
Seasonal whale-watch cruises depart from Hvalvík and Sandoy, targeting pilot whales and harbor porpoises from June through September.
How long does a typical Vestmanna sea cliff cruise last?
Tours run 2–2.5 hours, including time spent exploring the grottoes and under natural arches while guides share information about the geology and seabirds.
How much do sailing and boat tours cost in the Faroe Islands?
Prices start around DKK 400 for a two-hour fjord cruise, DKK 700-900 for a Vestmanna sea-cliff tour, and DKK 1,200+ for private sailing charters.