The seas are like a mirror, reflecting the white capped mountains, on a clear sunny day in Lofoten. You are into fish, with you best mates aboard and life is good. And 15 minutes later you are in raging, white capped, inferno, and the once so peaceful seas are trying to kill you. That is also Lofoten.

Just to drive in how dangerous the can be, here are some facts from one of the Norwegian encyclopedias:

1849: On the 11th of February. 500 men is lost in a storm at sea.

1861-1865 – 87 men perish at sea,

1866-1870 – 230 men perish at sea,

1871-1875 – 100 men perish at sea

1876-1880 – 99 men perish at sea,

1881-1885 – 113 men perish at sea,

1893 – January 25th 119 men perish at sea in a storm during their crossing to Lofoten.

Most of the victims lost their lives in sudden storms in boats that where not far from the boats modern fishing tourists use these days.These men and a few women, did not have GPS, Chart plotters, and modern day weather reports. But having it does not mean the weather won’t kill you. It can happen really fast, and what everyone should think of is to be prepared, and wear that flotation device. It’s to late when you are floating in the sea.

And just remember where you are. Lofoten is as far north as the North shore of Alaska! Yes the Gulf stream may make the climate milder, and water warmer. But ending up in the drink, will surely kill you if you are not rescued promptly. And dying from exposure is not a nice death.

In Norway we have something we call the Safety at Sea rules. They are as follows:

1. Think safety:
Knowledge and planning reduces the risk and increases your well-being.

2. Bring necessary equipment.
This needs to be maintained and easily accessible.

3. Respect the weather and the waters.
The boat must only be used in suitable conditions for it.

4. Follow the “traffic rules” at sea.
Regulations on yielding, speed and lanterns must be followed.

5. Use a floating device (wear it, it’s to late when you are in the drink, and your floatie is on the boat).
Approved floating device/ west/suit is mandatory by law for everyone aboard.

6. Be rested and sober.
The legal limit at seas in Norway is 0,8 when you drive a boat. Show consideration to others. Safety, environment and the well being of all is a comnmon responsibility

7 . Show consideration.
The safety, environment and well being of all is a common responsibility.

And finally. if the locals tell you not to go out that day…don’t go!