15-day sailing trip, Faroe Islands, Shetland, Fair Isle, Orkney

Sailing trip Fareor: Possible itinerary

As a sailing ship, we are largely dependent on the weather. The program below is a possible itinerary which will be determined by the currents and the weather, particularly the wind. This may mean that we skip ports or call at ports other than those described below. Flexibility is key to making the most of this adventurous trip!

Day 1 – Embarkation in Ullapool (Scotland)

In the early evening, we board the majestic Flying Dutchman, a classic tall ship that blends tradition with comfort. Ullapool, a charming fishing village on the shores of Loch Broom, is the departure point for our North Atlantic adventure. During dinner on board, you’ll meet the crew and your fellow travellers. We then set sail along the dramatic west coast of the Scottish Highlands.

Day 2–3 – Crossing to the Faroe Islands

We head northwest on a sailing journey of approximately 200 nautical miles across the open ocean. This crossing offers a unique opportunity to get into the rhythm of the ship and the sea. You are welcome to join in the sailing, help with navigation, or simply enjoy the vastness of the Atlantic.

Along the way:

• Opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds
• Experience traditional seamanship by joining the watch schedule
• Silence, star-filled skies, and the steady rhythm of waves beneath the hull

Day 4–5 – Exploring the Faroe Islands

Upon arrival, we are welcomed by the rugged beauty of the Faroes: dramatic basalt cliffs, misty mountains, and colourful villages with grass-roofed houses. The archipelago consists of 18 islands scattered in the North Atlantic between Scotland, Iceland, and Norway.

Highlights:

• Tórshavn, the charming capital with the oldest continuous parliament in the world
• Vestmanna bird cliffs, home to thousands of puffins and auks
• Kirkjubøur, the historic and cultural heart of the Faroes, with medieval ruins

The Faroe Islands offer a rare blend of Nordic mythology, Scandinavian influences, and traditional communities where the sea still shapes daily life.

Day 6–7 – Ocean Passage to the Shetland Islands

We bid farewell to the Faroes and set a southeast course for the Shetland Islands. This 170-nautical-mile journey takes us once again into the open sea, with the possibility of long day and night watches – a dance of wind and sail. Arrival in Shetland is scheduled for Day 8.

Day 8–9 – Shetland: Culture and Nature at the Edge

The Shetland Islands form the northernmost point of the United Kingdom and feel like a world of their own – Scottish by passport, Scandinavian in character. The islands offer a striking landscape of rugged cliffs, heathlands, and secluded bays.

Attractions include:

• Lerwick, a lively port town with museums, galleries, and traditional pubs
• Jarlshof, an archaeological site with 5,000 years of continuous human habitation
• Broch of Mousa, the best-preserved Iron Age stone tower in Europe

Nature: Expect to see seals resting on rocky shores, puffins nesting in cliffs, and arctic flora blooming across the tundra-like moors.

Day 10 – Fair Isle: A Remote Gem

We leave Shetland for a short sail to Fair Isle, located between Shetland and Orkney. With only a few dozen inhabitants, this remote island is renowned for its birdlife and iconic knitwear patterns.

What makes Fair Isle special:

• One of Europe’s top birdwatching sites – especially during migration seasons
• A close-knit community maintaining centuries-old traditions
• Untouched nature, dramatic landscapes, and a profound sense of isolation

Walking across the island feels like stepping back in time – just wind, sea, and silence.

Day 11–12 – Orkney: Islands of Sun and Stone

We continue on to the Orkney Islands – an archipelago of over 70 islands boasting an extraordinary wealth of archaeological treasures and a relatively mild climate.

Highlights include:

• Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village astonishingly well preserved
• Ring of Brodgar and Stones of Stenness, mysterious megalithic stone circles
• Kirkwall, with its impressive St. Magnus Cathedral and inviting local shops
• Italian Chapel, built by Italian POWs during WWII – a touching tribute to faith and creativity

Day 13–14 – Return to Ullapool

After a final morning walk and setting sail once more, we begin our return voyage to Ullapool. Along the way, we reflect on the journey: the open sea, the remote islands, the stillness, and the camaraderie.

By early evening we dock again in the harbour of Ullapool. The next morning, it’s time to say goodbye to the ship and fellow travellers – but the memories of this remarkable journey will stay with you for years to come.

Day 15: Take farewell

Unfortunately, this wonderful journey has come to an end and after an breakfast it is time to say goodbye.

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The Flying Dutchman