Bluegate: Experiences of the wild and weathered beauty of the Faroe Islands

There are different ways of witnessing the stunning nature in and around this Nordic archipelago, from boat trips along dramatic coastlines, to hiking trips into its breathtaking interior. With the help of insightful guides and skilled sailors, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey and a unique glimpse into the real Faroe Islands.

Independent company Bluegate is behind some of the most exciting tours of the Faroe Islands. It all started as a hobby project in 2017. “We had a vision that we felt could grow into something bigger,” explains Eystein í Løðu, CEO and co-founder of Bluegate, who runs the company with co-founder and CFO Ellef Ellefsen. “We had one boat and lots of ideas,” Eystein continues. The company now has a fleet of three boats that take up to 12 guests and two cabin members, and offer ‘soft adventures’ in nature. “These are not action boats, and we keep to 20-25 knots when sailing,” Eystein explains.

Safety is a priority, and the team takes every aspect seriously. “Legislation around the safety of sailing this type of boat in these waters is crucial,” Eystein says. “Our boats and crew members are certified, meeting the highest standards of safety.” The weather is also unpredictable, and being able to navigate changes is crucial.“We are at the mercy of the elements,” says Eystein. The team keeps a close eye on the forecast and offers a solution if a trip is adversely affected. “If it looks like there will be a swell or a detrimental change in the weather, we either suggest an alternative experience or give a full refund,” he says. Every boat tour is an adventure, but safety is never compromised.

A local business through and through

Eystein grew up on Vágar, and knows the small villages and the landscapes on the island like the back of his hand. “All our staff are local, and we offer an insiders’ view of our incredible islands,” he says. Visitors can experience magnificent views over cliffs and the sea, impressive waterfalls, rolling hills and striking rock formations.

Bluegate is one of the island’s leading boat tour operators, and at the core is a wish to share the outstanding nature of the motherland. “Often, our guests will remind us just how beautiful it is here,” Eystein continues. “Sometimes you forget to look at what is right in front of you.”

The name is inspired by Drangarnir, an imposing sea stack shaped by the ocean, forming a natural gate. Bluegate arranges hiking and boat tours to Drangarnir, a tour de force of nature. “On some journeys we are able to sail through it,” Eystein muses. The company is also known as Aview2sea, referring to the view you can see from the sea, and Bluegate is the blue sky you can see through the arch of Drangarnir.

Excursions on sea and land

Bluegate organises a variety of experiences and all tours include a local guide as a crew member. Mykines Extraordinary is a trip to the puffin island of Mykines. Guests are dropped off and have the option of a guided walk around the island, to see the remarkable puffins and visit the picturesque little village on the western part of the island. After three hours, guests are picked up, giving plenty of opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and remarkable nature.

The Drangarnir boat and hike tour takes you close to Draganir where you are dropped off for a hike and collected 1.5 hours later. Two other tours are Drangarnir & Múlafossur and Drangarnir Sea Stack, which both start in the small harbour of Sørvágur. The first stop is the picturesque village of Bøur followed by Salgjógv, where you can see layers of basalt from volcanic eruptions 57-58 million years ago, the oldest visible parts of the Faroe Islands.

Next up on the tour is the Akranes area, where you might spot seals, and Skarðsáfossur. The trip continues to the spectacular Múlafossur Waterfall in the village of Gásadalur, known for its traditional grass-roofed houses. Múlafossur is only accessible by boat or by hiking from the village. Then the tour continues across the fjord to the peak islet of Tindhólmur, and a fifth and final stop at Drangarnir Sea Stack.

The boats are also available to rent for shorter or longer private tours. What all these adventures have in common is a unique way of taking in some of the most breathtaking and unspoiled scenery in the world.

Bluegate prides itself on the quality of its tours and takes great care to work in harmony with nature, and is sure to provide an authentic and spectacular introduction to the extraordinary splendour of the Faroe Islands.

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