Thanks to Gus Wilson who passed along the information below, we now have a clear answer from Norwegian Immigration regarding the sailing permit issue:
Circular UDI 2010-139 distinguishes between two categories of
foreigners:
1. Foreigners who do not need to obtain a Schengen visa. This category of applicants need to submit an application for a sailing permit with a Norwegian Foreign mission no later than two months in advance ONLY if they intend to enter/exit the Schengen territory via an UNAUTHORIZED port of entry (border checkpoint). The authorized ports of entry are listed in Annex 16 of the Norwegian Immigration Regulations.
2. Foreigners who need to obtain a Schengen visa. This category of applicants is required to apply for a visa AND a sailing permit with a Norwegian Foreign mission at least two months prior to the start of the journey.
Inge Hoem, Senior Adviser
E-post: idh@udi.no
Tel: 23 30 91 38
The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI), Managed Migration
Department, Visa Unit P.O. Box 8108 Dep, N-0032 Oslo, Norway
Telephone: +47 23 35 15 00
Other than the sailing permit requirement for those who need a Schengen visa, information under Customs and Immigration in the 2010 Edition of the Norwegian Cruising Guide is up to date.
