12th May 2023 After testing the keel on the rock outside the harbour, we can say that it is safe use on hard objects. Therefore we are now ready to start the real journey. Wuhuuu
Our journey begins… again
Destinations
So close we can almost see the monster!
An eventful day on the Caledonian Canal unfolded with a playful Scandi race between a Danish crew member and a Swedish boat, featuring a swing bridge joker. Loch Lochy’s beauty mesmerized them as they reached Fort Augustus. The highlight was a delightful dinner at The Loch Inn, followed by a pub crawl to explore the local Talisker offerings.
Snow Bear Branding
The team is thrilled with our new warm beanie hats and hooded jackets, thanks to Banana Moon’s excellent craftsmanship. A big shoutout to Rachel from Bird Design & Branding for bringing our logo design and branding to life. Our website, hosted securely by Easyspace, and social media accounts are flourishing.
Svalbard Cruising Resources – Updated for 2025
2025 Update – Some useful resource links and downloads for Sailing to Svalbard updated to include the new regulations that came into force 1st Jan 2025
The wind is a challenge on this coast – Villa Island
With another day of motoring, they pushed through the desire to stay in harbor and watch movies, realizing the importance of progress. The clear day revealed a northern landscape with disappearing trees and golden hues. The fishing industry’s presence was evident with circular fish farms. Passing through narrow entrances, they anchored at Villa Island’s secluded pontoon harbor, enjoying its picturesque tranquility. A chance encounter with a mink catcher added an unexpected, yet amusing, twist to the day.
Another day at the Crinan Canal
13th May 2023 So today we had to open and close a lot of manual locks. It was hard work to be crew running back and forth to open and close the locks, but also …
Too many Bananas
Our shopping strategy may lack organization, often forgetting basic items like eggs. Fearing a banana shortage, we ended up with an excess and decided on a banana cake during our first day sailing without Ilse. While Steve steered, Sarah, the better cook, baked below deck, enjoying the benefits of having an activity, warmth, and delicious cake on a chilly Norwegian day.
Portsmouth to Scotland
In the summer of 2022, we sailed from Gosport in Portsmouth Harbour to Scotland, where Snow Bear has a new home in Tighnabruaich on the Kyles of Bute. Covering over 1200 nautical miles, our journey included visits to remote islands like the Isles of Scilly, Lundy, Skomer, Isle of Man, Ireland, Rathlin, Sanda, Arran, Bute, and Jura. We also transited Scotland’s scenic Crinan Canal.