Framstig circa 1920 used as a ferry
"Framstig" has a multifarious and curious history. Her story began in 1914, in the small coastal town of Risør, Norway, as a cargo boat, transporting goods across fjords, which she did for several years. She was built using oak and weighed in at 60 tonnes! Soon after, a single mast was rigged onto deck and she began her career as a fishing vessel in the abundantly rich surrounding waters. In 1920 she was sold (for NOK 30.000) and in the process, also rebuilt. A steering house and passenger saloon were added as Framstig began her new career as a ferry carrying passengers and milk (which all Norwegians love). However, only a year later she changed hands, to a larger ferrying company. Legend has it that the negotiations were ‘spirited’, earning Framstig the nickname ‘Kaulå’, a local expression for an argument. Once tempers calmed, Framstig flourished and for the next 45 years she continued her work as a ferry.
Framstig, completed sailing rig, ready for her voyage around the world
During WWII, as the german bombs were falling onto the town of Åndalsnes, Framstig was the last boat to leave the harbour. In the following years, as technology advances and the times moved forward, the shipping company gradually expanded and renewed their fleet. ‘Framstig’ shifted to transporting fish between harbours and, as ice covered the fjords during the winter months, was also used as an icebreaker - capable of breaking ice up to 9 inches thick! She changed hands several times throughout the next few years until 1971, when during a large storm, she broke from her anchor and was thrown onto shore, crushing her career as a transport vessel. It wasn't until three years later that a group of dreamers discovered a forgotten Framstig, and realized her potential.
Framstig's beams covered in snow
After 5 long years of rebuilding and hard work, Framstig was once again ready for adventure - rigged with two masts, brand new sails, and boundless passion for discovery - she set off on a three year voyage around the world. The memories and impressions from this journey live on in the magical cabin below deck. Since then, she has been sailing up and down the Norwegian coast and around the North Sea.
