In 2026, we are firstly setting our sights on exploring the western Baltic and the Kattegat. To give ourselves a head start, we are making our way to Kiel a full week before the beginning of the cruise. Blue Layla then lies in a well-sheltered berth overlooking the Kiel Fjord, waiting patiently for our departure. A week later, we cast off and head for the Danish South Funen Archipelago, taking full advantage of the westing we gained before the trip, with the prevailing westerlies now working in our favour. After a stop in the charming harbour of Marstal, steeped in history though invariably busy, we continue north through the Great Belt before entering the waters of the Kattegat and making it to Skagen. After crossing the Skagerrak, we finally reach Norway, before continuing along the Swedish coast and threading our way through the skerries of Bohuslän and Gothenburg. For the return journey through the Kattegat, we choose a route via the islands of Læsø and Anholt, heading from there into the Øresund. After visits to Malmö and Lund, we sail back towards Warnemünde via Falster.

SY Blue Layla in Norway (Photo: A. Calis).