By Rachel Hansen | Photos courtesy of Explore Hood Canal

Celebrating the centuries old Scandinavian tradition, Fjordin Crossin revives the storied practice of aging aquavit at sea. In 1805, Norwegian Linie Aquavit embarked on a journey across the Equator, bound for the East Indies. Though it returned unsold, the voyage enriched its flavor—creating a taste legacy that lives on as the Linie Aquavit today still crosses the Equator by sea and returns via Australia.

In the same spirit, The Hardware Distillery in Hoodsport brings that heritage to the Pacific Northwest. On Saturday, June 28, 2025, they will once again send a barrel of their signature Dill Aquavit across the fjord-like waters of Hood Canal—the only saltwater fjord in the contiguous U.S. —from the Port of Hoodsport to Tahuya and back. Just as sea air and gentle motion improved Linie Aquavit, the barrel’s journey infuses this small batch spirit with a distinctive maritime memory.

11 AM – Kickoff at Hoodsport Marina Park

Vendors showcasing local crafts and goods

Family friendly art and activity corner hosted by Explore Hood Canal volunteers

Beloved local food trucks plus Scandinavian treats

Norwegian Elk Hounds! These very gentle pups are friendly and welcome all, including children, to visit them.

Local restaurants including The Tides and Fjord Oyster Bank will be featuring house specialties on site. The Tides Restaurant will be serving their famous clam chowder and hot dogs, including a very special variation of the Scandinavian hot dog. The Oyster Bank will be serving grilled oysters as well as BBQ ribs served with Norwegian dill & cucumber salad.

Aquavit Grotto (21+) on the beach serves Fjordin Crossin cocktails alongside wines from Hoodsport Winery and craft beer from Potlatch Brewery. This year the Aquavit Grotto will be serving Rhubarb Paradise - a new cocktail made from Hardware Distillery Cardamom Aquavit, Grains of Paradise, rhubarb and plum bitters.

A festive parade, featuring Scandinavian traditional dress and live fiddle and accordion music, will escort the Dill Aquavit barrel to the dock. Once aboard, the vessel sets sail toward Tahuya and returns, completing its Fjordin Crossin voyage.

Immediately after the barrel launch, Hood Canal Events hosts a friendly Paddle the Canal Challenge: choose canoes, kayaks, SUPs, or small sailboats. No vessel? Hood Canal Adventures will have sea kayaks available for registered participants.

By 3 PM, the rising tide signals the end of the main festivities. Attendees are encouraged to explore charming Hoodsport—pop into Hardware Distillery for extra tastings, Potlatch Brewery for beer made on site, explore the Flywheel Gallery and enjoy live music and fresh oysters at the Fjord Oyster Bank.