Check out this amazing boat!

Norwegian sailor Erik Aanderaa sets out from South Norway aboard a classic 31-foot wooden double ender, sailing a 140-nautical-mile delivery run to bring the vessel to its new owner in Haugesund. Built in 1945, the historic double ender represents purist coastal seamanship, operating without auxiliary systems or modern electronics.

Erik navigates coastal waters under sail alone, managing the journey along the shores of Norway through measured day runs planned around incoming weather.

Pure Seamanship on a 1945 Double Ender

Underway along the coast, the vessel offers a return to basic sailing fundamentals. Erik points out the complete absence of electronic instrumentation, autopilot, or powered aids on deck. As he explains while minding the helm, “The boat has no equipment at all. It’s only sail so and the keel and the rudder.”

Every adjustment in course demands direct manual input. With no self-steering gear fitted, Erik maintains continuous control at the tiller, noting simply, “Hand steering here.” The simplicity of the wooden ship provides a distinct sailing experience, prompting him to remark, “What an incredible way to sail.” When the tiller demands quick attention, he notes with a smile, “Oops, I have to steer.”

Pacing the Passage Ahead of Saturday Weather

The delivery route from South Norway toward Haugesund spans roughly 140 nautical miles, requiring steady daily runs to ensure safe transit. Erik structures his progress into manageable segments, sailing approximately 6 to 7 hours each day. At this pace, he calculates that reaching the vessel’s destination in Haugesund will take 4 to 5 days.

Weather conditions dictate a strict timeline for the coastal voyage. Forecasts indicate severe conditions approaching toward the weekend. Erik monitors the situation closely to ensure the wooden craft is safely harbored before the gale arrives: “There’s a big storm coming on Saturday, so I’ll be tied tied up and secured by then somewhere.” With the helm requiring constant vigilance, Erik keeps the 1945 double ender steady on course along the waters of Norway.

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