The Höga Kusten is situated on the Swedish coast of the Bothnian Sea. It is a long journey from the southern Baltic Sea; however, the character of the coastline changes as you travel. The area features high, wooded shores and deep inlets alongside archipelago islands, fishing villages and small moorings. The striking landscape is part of the Höga Kusten/Kvarken Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since the ice retreated, the land here has been rising. That is another reason why it is worth seeing the coast as more than just a line on a nautical chart.
Skeppsmalen and Örnsköldsvik: coastal towns and the first anchorages
The southern leg of the report takes us, amongst other places, to Grisslan, Örnsköldsvik and the fishing village of Skeppsmalen. These stops reveal two sides of the area: there are often only a few stops between a quiet anchorage and a harbour where you can stock up on provisions. So anyone exploring the Höga Kusten in their own boat does not need to reach a new destination every day. In the Part One: On Skeppsmalen and Örnsköldsvik The focus is on arrival in the area and the first stops on land.
Trysunda and Mjältön: islands rather than long strokes
As you travel between the islands, it becomes clear why, in this area, taking your time is more important than a tight itinerary. Trysunda combines a small harbour with an old fishing village. On Mjältön lies Baggviken, a bay from which you can explore the island on foot. The island’s elevation also makes a visit ashore particularly appealing: Mjältön is regarded as Sweden’s highest island. Berths are not necessarily secluded in summer; local conditions and the availability of space in the harbour also determine how long a stopover lasts. The Part Two: Trysunda and Mjältön leads to these two different island destinations.
Ulvöhamn and Skuleskogen: The coast as seen from the mainland
Ulvöhamn brings the history of fishing to the cruise, whilst at Docksta a different view of the High Coast opens up. There, the yacht can stay moored whilst you take a trip to Skuleskogen National Park. Footpaths lead across rocky terrain and to vantage points overlooking the sea; the The park management provides information on the trails and places of interest for planning the shore leave. In the Part Three: Ulvöhamn and Skuleskogen The journey does not end at the jetty, but continues further inland.
The High Coast is therefore particularly well suited to crews who, after a long journey, wish to combine short legs with time ashore. Harbours, bays and walking destinations are close enough together to allow you to choose your next stop based on the weather, mooring availability and your desire to go ashore. However, when planning your route, you’ll still need to consult up-to-date nautical charts and take account of the conditions on the day.
Book recommendation
Baltic Sea Coastal Guide The RCC Pilotage Foundation’s publication supplements the impressions conveyed in the report with information on the area to assist with your own planning. The volume also covers Sweden and contains details of key ports, approach routes, mooring and supply facilities, as well as charts and plans. It provides an overview for longer Baltic Sea cruises and is not a harbour guide limited specifically to the Höga Kusten. For specific approach routes, up-to-date nautical charts remain the authoritative source.
What do you think is an absolute must on a sailing trip along the High Coast: island harbours, anchorages or longer shore excursions? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
Christian Tiedt
Editor Travel
