Nesna harbour in the islands of Vega. Small wooden cottages by the sea, all read. In the background the great mountains of Vega is seen.

UNESCO Vega Archipelago

Go on a boat tour of the UNESCO-protected Vega Islands and learn about the islands’ unique industry of eider duck down harvesting.

  • Enjoy views of the beautiful UNESCO-listed Vega archipelago by boat
  • Visit the Vega World Heritage Centre which charts the islands’ history
  • Learn about the traditional industry of eider duck down harvesting
  • Have a complimentary hot drink and local snack in the café

  • Direction

    Southbound direction

  • Season

    Autumn, Summer

  • Difficulty level

    Level 1: Easy - suitable for most people

  • Duration

    5 hours

  • Max. passengers

    12

  • Booking code

    HR-SSJ10B

  • From

    369 €

Discover a hidden gem as you tour the UNESCO-listed islands of Vega that sit south of the Arctic Circle. We’ll venture from Sandnessjøen, through the cluster of islands, islets, and reefs by boat while our guide speaks of the fascinating culture of this coastal landscape and its people. 

Coming ashore at Gardsøy, we’ll visit the Vega World Heritage Centre which highlights the outstanding 1500-year-old tradition that is unique to the area. The islanders act as bird guardians for the migrating eider ducks that nest here. They build tiny ‘houses’ for the animals and after the hatchlings have moved out, the highly-prized eider down is collected.  

Through the exhibitions and short film, you’ll be taken on a journey from Stone Age settlements to fish farming of the modern day. Admire the beautiful views from the café while enjoying a hot drink and local snack.  

We’ll sail back along the idyllic Helgeland coast and end our journey in Brønnøysund. 

The islands of Vega at sunset. The sky is red and the islands silhouette is in the horizon. The islands of Vega at sunset. The sky is red and the islands silhouette is in the horizon.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

  • Disembarking port: Sandnessjøen
  • Embarking port: Brønnøysund
  • Available period:  10 June - 09 September 
  • Transportation: Boat
  • Meals on the trip: Local fruit drink, coffee, tea and local snack. There is a café and a shop at the World Heritage Centre where you can buy food and beverage and local souvenirs. 
  • Clothes/Footwear: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing