--- title: "Frequently Asked Questions on Chartering — Boreal Yachting" description: "Answers on whole-boat chartering, Svalbard permits, safety and seasons, from an AECO member and Eco-Lighthouse certified operator based in Tromso." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://boreal-yachting.com/#organization", "name": "Boreal Yachting", "url": "https://boreal-yachting.com", "logo": "https://boreal-yachting.com/logo.png", "image": "https://boreal-yachting.com/logo.png", "description": "Premium Arctic sailing in Northern Norway and Svalbard. Whole-boat expeditions and charters from Tromsø since 2003.", "foundingDate": "2003", "email": "post@boreal-yachting.com", "telephone": "+4777729200", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Tromsø", "addressCountry": "NO" }, "memberOf": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO)", "url": "https://www.aeco.no" }, "sameAs": [ "https://facebook.com/borealyachting", "https://youtube.com/@borealyachting" ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://boreal-yachting.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "FAQ", "item": "https://boreal-yachting.com/faq" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What do we require before you sail one of our boats without a skipper?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "You need documented sailing experience and a recognised certificate, such as an ICC or RYA Day Skipper. A commercially endorsed certificate, Yachtmaster or equivalent, is preferred. We also ask for a sailing CV before we confirm a bareboat charter." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which certificates and experience are needed to sail in Norway?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "An ICC or an equivalent certificate is required for bareboat. Coastal navigation is the skill that matters most here: tides, currents, and unlit shorelines. A commercially endorsed certificate, Yachtmaster or equivalent, is preferred, and we ask for a sailing CV first." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is included, and what is not?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Included: the boat and its insurance. Not included: bed linen, towels, fuel, end cleaning, provisioning, and marina fees. The final contract lists this in full." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do check-in, check-out, and the inventory work?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Check-in covers a full briefing and a joint review of the inventory. Check-out is an inspection of the boat and its equipment, followed by written confirmation of the handover." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can we add equipment such as a dinghy, sailing clothing, or a paddleboard?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Extras can be added when you book. A dinghy and outboard are always part of the charter. Talk to our booking manager about the rest." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens in the event of damage, a breakdown, or heavy weather?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Call our support or management team. We help with repairs, a change of route, or advice on safe harbours. The charter contract also sets out how each case is handled." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do we need a permit to sail around Svalbard?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Most of a Svalbard sailing programme must be applied for in advance, and we submit the application to the Governor of Svalbard (Sysselmesteren) on your behalf." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What safety rules apply in polar bear areas?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Guides carry the required safety equipment and follow set wildlife protocols on every landing." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long should a Spitsbergen voyage be?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Between seven and 14 days among the fjords, glaciers, and wildlife areas. Ten days is the length that works best for the west coast of Svalbard." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are your environmental rules on waste and protected areas?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We work to Leave No Trace principles and respect the protected zones. Boreal Yachting is certified through the Eco-Lighthouse programme." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is satellite communication available on board?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Every vessel carries a satellite telephone and emergency beacons." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What skiing level and fitness does Ski & Sail require?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Intermediate to advanced skiing, and the fitness to climb for several hours on consecutive days." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is avalanche equipment provided, or rented?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Skins, transceiver, shovel, and probe can be rented locally." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are the guides certified, and how many guests does each guide take?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, the guides are certified. The usual ratio is six guests per guide, and in some cases seven." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do you manage avalanche risk and shore landings?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The guides assess the snowpack every day and follow the forecasts on varsom.no. Zodiacs put you ashore where the landing is safe, which is often not where the road would take you." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What does a Ski & Sail day look like?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "An early start, then 800–1,200 metres of climbing. Lunch is served on board after the descent. The afternoon is spent sailing to the next anchorage and the next mountain." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which weeks have the most stable conditions?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "March to May. The snowpack has settled, the days are long, and the light on the descent is worth the early start." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When are orcas and humpback whales seen here?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "October to January is the main season for orcas and humpback whales." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you keep to minimum-distance guidelines around wildlife?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. On whale safaris we follow the guidelines set by the local tourist board, and we keep our distance even when it costs us the photograph." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long is a voyage, and how many guests are on board?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Three to seven days, with up to nine guests on a boat." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What if we see no whales?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We give no guarantee. Whales move, and some weeks they are elsewhere. The sailing, the coast, and the other wildlife are still there." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What clothing is needed, and what do you provide?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Thermal suits and boots are provided. Bring warm layers to wear underneath." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is this suitable for children, or for guests prone to seasickness?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, with sensible precautions and medication where needed. Our skippers know which routes stay sheltered, and they choose them when the sea is up." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When is the aurora visible in Northern Norway?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From September to mid-April, most often between 21:00 and 02:00." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can the aurora be seen from the boat under way?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, on a clear night." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do aurora forecasts work?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The KP index indicates geomagnetic activity. Cloud cover decides whether you see any of it, which is why we move the boat." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How cold does it get on board?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The boats are heated. Dress in layers, and bring thermal clothing. We can provide sailing suits if you need them." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can a photography guide come along?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, if you ask for it when you enquire. We arrange the right person for the trip." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if the weather is poor for several days?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We change the itinerary and go ashore for alternatives. Northern Norway in winter rewards a flexible plan." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do you build a route around our group?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We plan around your experience, what you want to do, and how far you want to travel in a day." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can the programme suit families, or a company group?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. We run family voyages and corporate programmes on the same whole-boat basis." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What additional services can be arranged?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A private chef, certified mountain guides, instructors, and photographers." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How far ahead should we enquire about a private voyage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Five to eight months ahead gives the widest choice of boats and dates." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What does a private week cost?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "From €9,000 to €25,000, depending on the boat, the crew, and the services included." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can activities ashore be included?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Hiking, sauna, and dog sledding, among others, depending on the route." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What boats do you operate?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Monohulls and catamarans between 40 and 50 feet, all prepared for Arctic conditions." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the cabin layouts and the capacity of a boat?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Three to five cabins per yacht, and a boat capacity of up to 10 guests. We charter the whole boat, not individual cabins." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What navigation equipment is carried?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Chartplotter, AIS, radar, GPS, and VHF on every yacht." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How is power handled on board?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Solar panels, engine generators, and shore power. Several yachts have upgraded battery capacity, including lithium systems." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is there heating, hot water, and a proper galley?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes. Every boat has heating, hot water, and a full galley." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are pets allowed on board?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "On selected charters, with approval in advance. The boat is deep-cleaned afterwards and the cost is charged to the charter." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do you make routing decisions?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Forecasts, local knowledge, and what the crew can see. We use yr.no for the general picture and Windy for wind." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can the itinerary change because of wind, swell, or ice?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, and it often does. The route is a plan, not a promise, and the skipper decides." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if a gale stops the programme?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "We find alternatives, ashore or in shelter, until the weather allows us to move again." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do guests get a weather briefing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, every day, for guests and crew together." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What temperatures and daylight should we expect?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Winter: −5 to −15°C, with short days. Summer: 10 to 25°C, with daylight around the clock in June and July." } } ] } ] --- [Skip to content](#main-content) [Boreal Yachting ](/) [Experiences](/experiences) [Destinations](/destinations) [Our Fleet](/fleet) [About Us](/about) [Journal](/journal) [For Partners](/partners) [Plan your journey](/plan-your-journey) 1. [Home](/) 2. / FAQ Questions # Frequently asked questions Boreal Yachting answers common questions below on whole-boat chartering, Svalbard permits, Ski & Sail, safety and seasons, drawn from twenty-three years sailing Northern Norway and Svalbard from Tromsø. Questions are grouped by trip type, from bareboat charter and northern lights sailing in winter to Svalbard expeditions between June and August. Last updated 11 September 2026 ## Bareboat Charter What do we require before you sail one of our boats without a skipper?+ You need documented sailing experience and a recognised certificate, such as an ICC or RYA Day Skipper. A commercially endorsed certificate, Yachtmaster or equivalent, is preferred. We also ask for a sailing CV before we confirm a bareboat charter. Which certificates and experience are needed to sail in Norway?+ An ICC or an equivalent certificate is required for bareboat. Coastal navigation is the skill that matters most here: tides, currents, and unlit shorelines. A commercially endorsed certificate, Yachtmaster or equivalent, is preferred, and we ask for a sailing CV first. What is included, and what is not?+ Included: the boat and its insurance. Not included: bed linen, towels, fuel, end cleaning, provisioning, and marina fees. The final contract lists this in full. How do check-in, check-out, and the inventory work?+ Check-in covers a full briefing and a joint review of the inventory. Check-out is an inspection of the boat and its equipment, followed by written confirmation of the handover. Can we add equipment such as a dinghy, sailing clothing, or a paddleboard?+ Extras can be added when you book. A dinghy and outboard are always part of the charter. Talk to our booking manager about the rest. What happens in the event of damage, a breakdown, or heavy weather?+ Call our support or management team. We help with repairs, a change of route, or advice on safe harbours. The charter contract also sets out how each case is handled. ## Svalbard Do we need a permit to sail around Svalbard?+ Yes. Most of a Svalbard sailing programme must be applied for in advance, and we submit the application to the Governor of Svalbard (Sysselmesteren) on your behalf. What safety rules apply in polar bear areas?+ Guides carry the required safety equipment and follow set wildlife protocols on every landing. How long should a Spitsbergen voyage be?+ Between seven and 14 days among the fjords, glaciers, and wildlife areas. Ten days is the length that works best for the west coast of Svalbard. What are your environmental rules on waste and protected areas?+ We work to Leave No Trace principles and respect the protected zones. Boreal Yachting is certified through the Eco-Lighthouse programme. Is satellite communication available on board?+ Yes. Every vessel carries a satellite telephone and emergency beacons. ## Ski & Sail What skiing level and fitness does Ski & Sail require?+ Intermediate to advanced skiing, and the fitness to climb for several hours on consecutive days. Is avalanche equipment provided, or rented?+ Skins, transceiver, shovel, and probe can be rented locally. Are the guides certified, and how many guests does each guide take?+ Yes, the guides are certified. The usual ratio is six guests per guide, and in some cases seven. How do you manage avalanche risk and shore landings?+ The guides assess the snowpack every day and follow the forecasts on varsom.no. Zodiacs put you ashore where the landing is safe, which is often not where the road would take you. What does a Ski & Sail day look like?+ An early start, then 800–1,200 metres of climbing. Lunch is served on board after the descent. The afternoon is spent sailing to the next anchorage and the next mountain. Which weeks have the most stable conditions?+ March to May. The snowpack has settled, the days are long, and the light on the descent is worth the early start. ## Whale Safari When are orcas and humpback whales seen here?+ October to January is the main season for orcas and humpback whales. Do you keep to minimum-distance guidelines around wildlife?+ Yes. On whale safaris we follow the guidelines set by the local tourist board, and we keep our distance even when it costs us the photograph. How long is a voyage, and how many guests are on board?+ Three to seven days, with up to nine guests on a boat. What if we see no whales?+ We give no guarantee. Whales move, and some weeks they are elsewhere. The sailing, the coast, and the other wildlife are still there. What clothing is needed, and what do you provide?+ Thermal suits and boots are provided. Bring warm layers to wear underneath. Is this suitable for children, or for guests prone to seasickness?+ Yes, with sensible precautions and medication where needed. Our skippers know which routes stay sheltered, and they choose them when the sea is up. ## Northern Lights When is the aurora visible in Northern Norway?+ From September to mid-April, most often between 21:00 and 02:00. Can the aurora be seen from the boat under way?+ Yes, on a clear night. How do aurora forecasts work?+ The KP index indicates geomagnetic activity. Cloud cover decides whether you see any of it, which is why we move the boat. How cold does it get on board?+ The boats are heated. Dress in layers, and bring thermal clothing. We can provide sailing suits if you need them. Can a photography guide come along?+ Yes, if you ask for it when you enquire. We arrange the right person for the trip. What happens if the weather is poor for several days?+ We change the itinerary and go ashore for alternatives. Northern Norway in winter rewards a flexible plan. ## Tailored Trips How do you build a route around our group?+ We plan around your experience, what you want to do, and how far you want to travel in a day. Can the programme suit families, or a company group?+ Yes. We run family voyages and corporate programmes on the same whole-boat basis. What additional services can be arranged?+ A private chef, certified mountain guides, instructors, and photographers. How far ahead should we enquire about a private voyage?+ Five to eight months ahead gives the widest choice of boats and dates. What does a private week cost?+ From €9,000 to €25,000, depending on the boat, the crew, and the services included. Can activities ashore be included?+ Yes. Hiking, sauna, and dog sledding, among others, depending on the route. ## Yachts What boats do you operate?+ Monohulls and catamarans between 40 and 50 feet, all prepared for Arctic conditions. What are the cabin layouts and the capacity of a boat?+ Three to five cabins per yacht, and a boat capacity of up to 10 guests. We charter the whole boat, not individual cabins. What navigation equipment is carried?+ Chartplotter, AIS, radar, GPS, and VHF on every yacht. How is power handled on board?+ Solar panels, engine generators, and shore power. Several yachts have upgraded battery capacity, including lithium systems. Is there heating, hot water, and a proper galley?+ Yes. Every boat has heating, hot water, and a full galley. Are pets allowed on board?+ On selected charters, with approval in advance. The boat is deep-cleaned afterwards and the cost is charged to the charter. ## Weather How do you make routing decisions?+ Forecasts, local knowledge, and what the crew can see. We use yr.no for the general picture and Windy for wind. Can the itinerary change because of wind, swell, or ice?+ Yes, and it often does. The route is a plan, not a promise, and the skipper decides. What happens if a gale stops the programme?+ We find alternatives, ashore or in shelter, until the weather allows us to move again. Do guests get a weather briefing?+ Yes, every day, for guests and crew together. What temperatures and daylight should we expect?+ Winter: −5 to −15°C, with short days. Summer: 10 to 25°C, with daylight around the clock in June and July. ## Start planning your Arctic journey. Tell us what you have in mind. We will come back to you within two working days with a considered answer — not a template. [Plan your journey](/plan-your-journey)[Speak to us directly](/contact) Boreal Yachting Premium Arctic sailing in Northern Norway and Svalbard. Sailing these waters since 2003. [![AECO member — Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators](/assets/aeco-member-Crcpxqbv.svg)](https://www.aeco.no)[![Eco-Lighthouse certified — Miljøfyrtårn programme](/assets/eco-lighthouse-CNcwtWaN.png)](https://www.miljofyrtarn.no/en/) ## Experiences - [Ski & Sail Norway](/experiences/ski-and-sail-norway) - [Ski & Sail Svalbard](/experiences/ski-and-sail-svalbard) - [Svalbard Expeditions](/experiences/svalbard-expeditions) - [Private charter](/experiences/private-charter) - [Group charter](/experiences/group-charter) - [Bareboat charter](/experiences/bareboat-charter) ## Destinations - [Tromsø](/destinations/tromso) - [Lyngen Alps](/destinations/lyngen-alps) - [Lofoten](/destinations/lofoten) - [Svalbard](/destinations/svalbard) - [Senja](/destinations/senja) - [Vesterålen](/destinations/vesteralen) ## Company - [About us](/about) - [Our crew](/about/crew) - [Safety](/about/safety) - [Sustainability](/about/sustainability) - [Company facts](/about/facts) - [Journal](/journal) - [For partners](/partners) - [Contact](/contact) Boreal Yachting AS · Tromsø, Norway · [post@boreal-yachting.com](mailto:post@boreal-yachting.com) · [+47 77 72 92 00](tel:+4777729200) - [Facebook](https://facebook.com/borealyachting) - [YouTube](https://youtube.com/@borealyachting) - [Instagram](https://instagram.com/borealyachting) © 2026 Boreal Yachting AS - [Privacy](/privacy) - [Terms](/terms) - [Booking conditions](/booking-conditions) Cookies on this site We use essential cookies to run the site. 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