Shakedown Cruise Around the Baltic Sea

As we prepare for our extensive travels, we're setting off on a crucial three-month shakedown cruise around the Baltic Sea. This journey is not just about soaking in the stunning vistas and unique experiences across several countries; it’s also a vital test for our custom-built rig under challenging conditions.

Starting in Poland, our route will take us counterclockwise around the Baltic, visiting Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Finland, before reaching the northern pinnacle at Nordkap. From there, we’ll head back through Norway, including the picturesque Lofoten Islands, and then through parts of Sweden and Denmark.

This journey is packed with activities that are not only thrilling but also bucket list-worthy. We’re looking forward to the exhilaration of riding a sled dog, the magical experience of watching the northern lights, and the adventure of riding skidoos. Each of these experiences promises to make this cruise unforgettable.

However, the primary goal of this trip is to rigorously test our rig. We'll be assessing how it performs in the cold climate with short daylight hours, especially how the electrical system manages the demands of cooking, cooling the fridge, and heating—although the rig is also equipped with a diesel heater as a backup. This trip will help us determine if the battery and electrical system are adequately dimensioned for such conditions.

Moreover, this cruise will give us the opportunity to fine-tune our living arrangements. We’ll evaluate our storage solutions, optimizing where and how we store our essentials for the most efficient use of space. It’s about making life on the road (or off it) as comfortable and practical as possible.

Stay tuned as we document our findings and experiences, adjusting and preparing for even more ambitious journeys in the future. This shakedown cruise around the Baltic Sea is just the beginning!