Fjordin Crossin embraces tradition

Jun 2

Fjordin Crossin embraces an old world Scandinavian tradition of the spirit “aquavit”, with a series of unique events at the beach in Hoodsport, WA – a nordic parade, a barrel crossing, a family-friendly paddle race, drinks, vendors and food and, after the tide pushes the celebration back to the shore, the after-party continues on the streets of Hoodsport.

An Aquavit tradition

In 1805 a special brand of aquavit, Linie aquavit, crossed the Equator from Norway bound for the East Indies, unsold it returned to Norway in 1807. It turned out that the sea voyage had a positive effect on the taste of the spirit. The old sailing ships have vanished, but Linie Aquavit still crosses the Equator on the deck of a ship and returns via Australia. It has become a celebrated aquavit tradition.

Saturday, June 22, the Hardware Distillery will once again launch a barrel of aged dill aquavit to cross Hood Canal from Hoodsport to Tahuya and back. Although the journey will not take four months (the current sea rocking schedule of a traditional cask of Linie), each mouthful will contain the memory of its fjord voyage.

Paddle the Canal Challenge

Over the last half decade it has grown to include a non-motorized paddle across the canal challenge hosted by Hood Canal Events. Participants can bring their own watercraft, rent on site, or, if they have no desire to paddle but want to be part of the excitement --book passage on Lady Alderbrook from Alderbrook Resort, to cross Hood Canal alongside the barrel. On board the Lady Alderbrook aquavit cocktails are served, and participants take in the day’s festivities from the center of the action. Purchase advance tickets from Alderbrook Resort and Spa (Union).

Ready to compete?

Learn more information, how to register and sign your required waiver. Kids 9 and under are FREE but must still register. This year's prizes include a night's stay in Hoodsport, a gift certificate to Hardware Distillery (get your Aquavit asap!), and goodies from our vendors. REGISTRATION FEE : May 25th - June 22nd, 2024, $39 adults/$25 kids (10-17)

*To celebrate the launch, the Paddle the Canal “race” follows the barrel journey in canoes, kayaks, SUPs and small sailboats. Bring your own boat or rent from* ***Hood Canal Adventures****. The Paddle has partnered with HCE to offer same day kayak rentals onsite. Singles and Doubles available in advance.*

Shore Side Activities

On shore there is plenty to do including vendors, oysters, a parade, artisans and children's crafts. The Aquavit Grotto serves cocktails on the beach as they await the arrival of the tide which will eventually send them to higher ground and move the events into the main street of Hoodsport where attendees will find additional activities offered by local businesses.

Schedule

11:00 AM – Food, libations, and vendors open at the Hoodsport Dock. Paddle the Canal registration open.

12:00 PM – Passengers board the Lady Alderbrook in Union if they are viewing the event that way. The Lady Alderbook will cruise for 2 hours and join the flotilla of vessels escorting the barrel across the Canal. During the Cruise you will be served the Fjord Mist Cocktail, using the Hardware Distillery Aquavit. Ticket price: $65 per person; boarding: 12:00 PM;cruise: 12:30-3:00 PM. Reserve Tickets for off set event.

12:40 PM – Parade from the Distillery to the dock with the barrel of Aquavit. Led by Scandinavian musicians.
1:00 PM – Crossing the Fjord begins: Barrel of aged Dill Aquavit travels from the Port of Hoodsport toward Tahuya and back, and when it returns, the Aquavit has been Fjordin Crossin. The Paddle the Canal challenge begins.Family and pet friendly paddle comprised of canoes, kayaks, SUPs and/or small sailboats. The Lady Alderbrook arrives. Guests on the boat cheer on Paddle participants, and enjoy Hardware Distillery aquavit cocktails.
2:00 PM – Award ceremony and prizes for the Paddle Challengers.
3:00 PM – After party in Hoodsport. Visit the shops, restaurants, distillery and brewery.