Arctic Sea Kayak Race

ASKR - an annual paddling festival

Sea paddlers from all over Europe come to Northern Norway to take part in the annual ASKR paddling festival. Competitive paddlers, recreational paddlers and beginners gather for a pleasurable week in breathtaking natural surroundings.  ASKR was arranged for the first time in 1991 and combines paddling, socializing and learning. 

The base for ASKR is the old and traditional fishing village of Skipnes on the outer side of Vesterålen, at 69 degrees north in northern Norway.

You can choose whether you want to stay in a rorbu or pitch a tent.

Activities

You will find activities for everyone, regardless of level and you always have someone to paddle with.

Beginners course

Expanded paddling course, 5 days(!!) for novices and for those who already have some paddling experience but who want to increase their kayaking enjoyment by learning more about safety, paddling techniques and planning of trips.

The course comprises a theoretical and a practical part. Most of the course takes place in the kayak itself, and there will also be longer trips.

The camp has the old fishing village of Skipnes as its home base.

Ramble

We divide the ramble into two groups based on experience/skill. The daily legs will be devised accordingly, both outshore of Vesterålen and in the archipelago.

The short ramble is suitable for anyone with some paddling experience, and for those who enjoy a slower pace.

The long ramble is suitable for those with som more paddling experience, and that are able to keep a higher pace over a longer distance.

Half-Marathon/Race

The course for the Sea Kayak Race/Marathon will be appx. 22 km. Alternative routes are set depending on weather conditions.

Participants in the ramble may choose whether they want to paddle the marathon as a race or tour.

You do not have to participate the entire week to participate in marathon.

Security/safety

Safety is a primary concern during the Ramble and race; with several group leaders having radio communication with one another, the safety escort boats and the base at Skipnes. In addition, we have the Coast Guard and Rescue boat in readiness.

Caution!

Participants must bring enough warm clothing. Even though it’s summer, the weather can vary, and the evenings grow cold.

Socializing

The social part of ASKR is important. Every evening during the ramble, everyone gathers around the fire on the beach where we have camped for the night. Camping on one of Vesterålen's many lovely beaches is a natural part of the experience, and has become a tradition.

Pub/Restaurant

Skipnes also has a pub and restaurant. The intimate and cozy pub oozes culture and local history. The pub and restaurant is fully licensed. During the event there will be music from North-Norwegian troubadours. Wednesday and Friday there is a dinner for all participants which is included in the fee.

Kayak shop

During ASKR there will be shops on the pier. Here you can purchase kayaks and kayaking equipment. Dealers and experienced paddlers will give you good advise. This provides a unique opportunity to see the latest in kayak-equipment. There will also be ASKR-discounts. Visit our web-site for ordering and purchase of equipment in advance of ASKR. 

Welcome to Skipnes and ASKR

Contakt

Phone: +47 450 05 890
E-mail: karl-einar@blv.no
Website: askr.no