SKI EXPEDITION FROM EAST COAST TO THE WEST COAST
Ski crossing expedition to Ny-Ålesund
A 7-day Arctic journey skiing through Oscar II Land with breathtaking fjords, across glaciers and history. The ski expedition will end on the West coast of Svalbard in Ny-Ålesund, which is the northernmost settlement in the world.
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DURATION:
7 days /
6 nights
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EXPEDITION DATES:
April / May
2027
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GROUP SIZE:
Max 8 guests
per guide
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DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
4/5 - Intermediate
to advanced ski level
Above avarage physical
fitness level
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EXPERT GUIDES
Led by certified
Svalbard ski experts
Reach the northernmost settlement on skis
This isn’t a ski holiday but a legendary 7-day journey into the absoulte heart og the high Arctic on Svalbard. Ahead of us lies Oscar II Land which is a raw territory on the western coast of Svalbard and one of Svalbard’s most breathtaking and untouched regions.
Together with the expert guide you will navigate through majestic glacier passes, sleep under the endless polar midnight sun sky, and pull a pulk through some of Spitsbergens most spectacular landscapes. You will push your limits until you reach the historical northernmost permanent settlement on Earth – Ny-Ålesund.
This is a true self-supported Svalbard ski crossing that will change how you look at the world – and yourself. This is where your story begins. Are you ready to step ont It’s a transition through the heart of the High Arctic – a true adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Approx. 110 km of pristine Arctic wilderness
- Including sailing trip from Longyearbyen to Borebukta & Ny-Ålesund to Longyearbyen.
- Sleep in remote camps under the midnight sun.
- Coast to coast from Isfjorden to Kongsfjorden.
- Small group experience with expert guide who know Arctic terrain and conditions.
Who is this tour for
Who is this tour for?
- You have a good fitness level and endurance
- Experienced skiing in variable snow conditions
- Enjoy pulling a pulk (sled) for several days
- Can ski for several consecutive days
- Ready to learn practical skills in the Arctic
- Want an Arctic ski expedition focused on endurance, teamwork and self-reliance
This tour is not for you if you:
- Are a complete beginner on skis
- You have never tried ski crossing
- Are uncomfortable with winter camping
- Feel uncomfortable pushing your physical limits
- Have limited physical fitness
- Don't want to pull a heavy pulk
SKI CROSSING: OSCAR II LAND
7 DAYS
-
NOK 35.500
/ per person
Save my spot
Every expedition begins with a short conversation. Let us help you determine whether this journey is right for you.
-
Expedition spot reserved
We'll hold your spot for 7 days. -
Get ready for Svalbard
Recommendations based on your ski experience.
- Secure booking
- No payment required immediately
Ski crossing program
Pre-expedition requirement: Arrival and Briefing
Welcome to the Arctic and the northernmost town Longyearbyen! Once you have arrived in Longyearbyen, we’ll take you to our expedition centre for briefing. We’ll go through the gear, safety and logistics ensuring every sled and ski is ready, checking up on the equipment list, ensure everyone is properly prepared, and make any necessary last-minute purchases. Finally, we pack the sleds and urge you to get a good night sleep before we start our crossing tomorrow morning.
Day 1
Sailing to Borebukta and the first steps on Oscar II Land
In the morning you will be picked up from your accommodation and we set course down to the harbor. This ski expedition starts with a boattrip that will take us across Isfjorden to Borebukta which is famous for having walrus colonies as well as beautiful glacier fronts. Upon our arrival we will set foot on Oscar II Land. We will click on the skis and from here, we'll start our ski crossing journey, heading north towards Ny-Ålesund. The first day on skis will be spent finding our rhythm while navigating the Arctic landscape with the expert ski guide.
This time of year we will have the midnight sun season which means the sun will never. We will have 24 hours of daylight. This way we do not need to adjust our time to darkness and can do the stages in our pace.
Day 2 to 6
One of Svalbard’s most breathtaking and untouched regions.
You'll wake up in the silence of the Arctic and enjoy your breakfast with the view to the snowcovered landscape.
Over the next four days, we move through a spectacular mix of glaciers, valleys, and plateaus.
Expect long days of skiing, breathtaking views, and setting camp in remote landscapes under the Arctic sky. We’ll experience the raw beauty of Svalbard as we push towards our goal: the legendary research town of Ny-Ålesund in Kongsfjorden.
While in camp, you'll gain hands-on experience in Arctic survival. We’ll work together to pitch our tents and camp as well as boiling snow into water for food and drinks. Our knowledgeable Arctic guides will teach you vital survival skills and share practical tips to help you adapt and thrive in the challenging winter conditions of the Arctic.
Day 7
Arrival to the northenmost permanent settlement Ny-Ålesund
We ski the final stretch into Ny-Ålesund, the world's northernmost permanent research settlement. While scientists and researchers arrive by plane, and some visitors by boat, we took the true explorer’s route—crossing the Arctic wilderness on skis.
After days in absolute wilderness, seeing the colorful houses feels like entering a different planet. We visit the historica mast where Roald Amundsen docked his airship before flying over the North Pole, and you can send a postcard from the northernmost post office. After a well-earned rest and exploration in Ny-Ålesund, we board the boat for our return journey to Longyearbyen, taking in the stunning fjord landscapes from a new perspective.
Post expedition recommendation: Buffer day with rest & recovery
We recommend having 2 extra days / 1 night after return to Longyearbyen from the expedition. Flexible days to relax, unwind, and let the adventure sink in.
If the weather was challenging during the expedition, this day serves as a buffer day for adjustments.
For those with energy left, we can help create an itinerary for staying in the northernmost town Longyearbyen.
The next day it will then be time to say goodbye to the Arctic.
Note: You stay in Longyearbyen with accomodation, meals and transfer is not included for pre- and post arrangements
- Ski crossing for 7 days on Svalbard
- Pick up/drop off at your hotel at the expedition start/end
- Sailing floatingsuit, boots, gloves, goggles
- Boat transport to/from starting/end point
- Pulka (sled) with pulk storage and pulling harness
- Shared Tent
- Common equipment like cooking equipment
- Breakfast and dinners on the ski expedition
- Field lunch
- Snacks
- Coffee/ tea
- Applications for the expedition
- SAR-insurance (Search & Rescue)
- Emergency equipment
- Expert ski guide with safety gear and polar bear protection
- Ski equipment (Available for rent)
- Sleeping bag (Available for rent)
- Sleeping mattress (Available for rent)
- Clothes
- Flights to/from Longyearby
- Stay in Longyearbyen for pre/post arrival
- Pick up/drop off at the airport
- Travel & cancellation insurance
- The itinerary is always weather dependent and the tour/activity can be modified due to safety concerns. Please see conditions.
- All tours are with english speaking guides.
- A full packing list will be provided upon booking
- A valid passport and travel health insurance must be presented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions, such as what to bring, how to prepare, and what to anticipate on the expedition. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us—we are here to help!
Yes, we recommend that participants have previous experience with ski crossings as this expedition demands exceptional physical fitness level where you will be able to ski for several days while dragging a heavy pulk with equipment while testing your endurance in minus temperatures.
It is completely natural to have doubts before commiting to a demanding ski crossing. You do not need to be a professional explorer og ski crossing expert but to give you the best experience we always prefer to begin with a free, non-binding 10 minute readiness call with our ski expert. We will assess your experience together, answer your questions honestly and ensure you feel 100% ready for an adventure.
Yes, we you need to book your ski crossing expedition in advance. Early booking guarantees your spot and allows us to tailor the experience to your needs. We recommend to book as the earliest time possible.
Solo travelers are welcome! Our ski expeditions are designed to cater to small groups, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers. We ensure a supportive and safe environment for all participants.
Yes, you can join as a group of 2 persons. Most of our ski crossings departures are “open expeditions” meaning we combine individual bookings into a small group. You don’t need to come as a pre-formed group.
For Svalbard expeditions, we use specialized skis suited for Arctic terrain, such as cross-country skis with steel edges. You can rent or bring your own equipment. If you have questions, feel free to contact us regarding the equipment.
Yes, we’re happy to help you put together a full Svalbard itinerary around the expedition. We recommend that you have at least 1 night before departure and 1 night when returning. Most guests stay a couple of night extra in Longyearbyen to settle in and explore the town and surroundings on land a bit before sailing out.
The weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures ranging from -5°C to -20°C in April/May. Wind and snowstorms are possible, so it’s important to be prepared for extreme weather and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
Small groups – big adventures
We only have small groups to maximize the adventure for each participant. It will be a minimum of 4 persons and and a maximum of 8 persons. This is also the reason why we have limited spots but we guarantee you’ll test your endurance, experience extreme nature, and leave with memories for a lifetime.
A small group size guarantees maximum safety, a faster ad more synchronized skiing pace, and personalized attention from our certified Svalbard ski expert.
Are you ready to pull your sled across Svalbard and become part of the Arctic’s untold story?
You can fly into Longyearbyen, the main settlement in Svalbard, via connecting flights from Oslo. Normally SAS or Norwegian will be the only flying to Longyearbyen.
Once in Longyearbyen, we will arrange transportation on the expedition departure day.
We do recommend to have at least one night before the expedition and 2 nights after.
For Svalbard expeditions, we use specialized skis suited for Arctic terrain, such as cross-country skis with steel edges.
You can rent or bring your own equipment. Please let us know in advance if you need to rent any equipment. If you have questions, feel free to contact us regarding the equipment. You can see information under “Rental”
For the ski crossing expedition, you need the bring:
- Warm wool clothing
- Sleeping bag
- Mattress
- Harness
- Shovel
- Ski gear.
A throughout packing list will be provided upon booking. You may rent sleeping bag, matress, harness, shovel and skiing equipment.
We provide all practical listed under “included”.
If you’re unsure about any gear, feel free to ask us for advice on what to pack.
Clothes
We will send you a packing list when booking
- Beanie
- Buff/neck, neoprene mask
- Warm mittens
- Gloves
- Wool underwear; longs + jersey + extra change
- Intermediate garments; wool or fleece
- Down jacket
- Windproof shell clothing
- Wool socks
- Ski boots
Personal equipment
- Polarized sunglasses
- Goggles / ski goggles
- Bottle 1 L / 2 á 0.5 L Nalgene
- SPF Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Toe and hand warmers
- Thermos 0.8 – 1 L
- Hygiene kit (tooth brush, tooth paste etc.)
- lip balm
- Pain reliever/ necessary medication / compeed
- Self time activity (book, crosswords, music, knitting..etc)
Svalbard is home to diverse Arctic wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot animals like Svalbard reindeer, polar foxes and even polar bears from a distance. However, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and safety precautions are in place when in polar bear territory.
The terrain varies from a vast landscape to gentle slopes and glacier descents.
Due to protection laws, no tour is allowed to be focussed on finding and seeing polar bears. If spotted you must keep your distance for safety reasons. The legal distance is 300 metres in summer and 500 metres in winter.
Polar Bear Watch is an essential safety measure during all ski expeditions in Svalbard. Given the presence of polar bears in the region, your guide will monitor the surroundings for any bear activity.
Everyone will take turns on polar bear watch at night. For many, this quiet, solitary time under the midnight sun becomes one of the highlights of the journey. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the Arctic wilderness and reflect on life in a way that few people ever experience.
If a polar bear is sighted, the group will be immediately instructed to take safety precautions. Polar bear protection is vital, and guides are trained in bear safety and using deterrents like flare guns and rifles.
Breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinners is included on the expedition. Meals are typically provided by the guides, focusing on energy-boosting meals suitable for the cold environment. If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance, and we will accommodate your needs.
All our ski guides are professionals with extensive ski experience in Arctic terrain and high-alpine safety.
Every guide has completed specialized Arctic safety training, such as the ANG (Arctic Nature Guide) program or equivalent guide certifications.
All guides are fully certified in firearms handling due to polar bears and Arctic wildlife safety regulations.
Our team also have avalanche safety training, glacier rescue skills and wilderness first-aid training.
Your safety is our priority. If weather conditions make the expedition too dangerous, the guide will assess the situation and may adjust the itinerary or postpone parts of the expedition.
We always have contingency plans in place to ensure your safety.
If you are unable to continue, your guide will assess the situation and arrange for evacuation or assistance as needed. There are safety protocols in place to ensure that every participant is safe and well taken care of. Search- and Rescue operations are covered by our insurance.
Yes, you need a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and trip cancellations. It’s essential to ensure you’re covered in case of unforeseen events during your Arctic adventure.
High-quality ski gear rental
For expeditions you are welcome to bring your own ski equipment
or you can rent ski and gear.
"Ski gear"-package
NOK 600 /per person per dayThe "ski gear"-package for this expedition include:
XC Skis, boots, short skins, poles
- Sleeping mattress & Term-a-rest
NOK 290 /per person per dayRent a sleeping mattress and term-a-rest for this ski crossing expedition
- Sleeping bag
NOK 390 /per person per dayRent a sleeping bag with comfort -25°C for this ski crossing expedition
- Single gear pieces
NOK 100 /per person per dayRent ski goggles, harness, shovel etc. for your ski expedition. Price is also per piece.
Ski crossing level
Every expedition begins with a conversation
Our expeditions take place in one of the most remote environments on Earth.
To ensure the safety of our guests and the quality of your experience,
every booking include a personal readiness call.
Tell us a little about yourself and your ski level on a 10 minute call with our ski expert to make sure this expedition is the right fit for you.
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10-MINUTE CALL
Speak directly
to an expert
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NO OBLIGATION
It's completely
non-binding
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SAFETY FIRST
We want every guest
to have the best
possible adventure
1. Schedule call
Choose a date for your
10-minute call.
2. Save your spot
Fill out the form for
how to contact you
3. Talk to our expert
We get to know you & answer your questions personally
4. Confirm & prepare
We'll reserve your spot and start the adventure together
Expedition at a glance
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SEASON:
Midnight sun season
April/May
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DURATION:
7 days/6 nights
Exclusive the pre- & post stay
(total min 9 days)
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DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
4/5 - Intermediate to advanced
Above average physical fitness
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ACCOMMODATION:
Camping in the Arctic wilderness
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DESTINATION:
Cross country from Isfjorden
to Ny-Ålesund on Svalbard
including sailing to start/end point
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GROUP SIZE:
4-8 guests
Solo travellers are welcome
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AGE LIMIT:
Minimum 18 years old
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EXPERT GUIDES:
Certified & Svalbard experts
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MEETING POINT:
At 08:30 in Longyearbyen
on departure day.
Outside your accommodation
Highlights of ski crossing expedition to Ny-Ålesund
- 7-day arctic ski expedition across Oskar II land to Ny-Ålesund
- Approx. 80 km of pristine Polar wilderness
- Including boat transfer
- Camp under the midnight sun
- Exclusive small group experience - maximum adventure
- Stunning actic views with beautiful photo opportunities
- Led by experienced professional polar guides
- A once-in-alifetime Arctic ski challenge
- Sustainable: Low climate footprint
- Expedition: 7-Day ski crossing expedition to Ny-Ålesund
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Departure date: On request in May 2027
- Pick up time: At your hotel in Longyearbyen
- Difficulty level: 4/5. You need to be in good physical condition
- Minimum / Maximum: 4 persons / 8 persons
- Age limit: 18 years
- Price per person: NOK 32.490,-
An Arctic ski crossing into Oscar II Land to Ny-Ålesund
What you can look forward to...
Step into the heart of the Arctic and embark on a challenging yet rewarding ski traverse through Oscar II Land. This 7-day ski expedition will take you across remote glaciers, vast valleys, and stunning fjords, all while pulling your own sled. This is a journey for the adventurous skier looking for a true Svalbard experience in one of the world’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Itinerary: Day by Day
Oscar II Land – A Hidden Gem of Spitsbergen
Embark on an unforgettable ski expedition through Oscar II Land, one of Svalbard’s most breathtaking and untouched regions. This journey takes you across vast glaciers, towering peaks, dramatic fjords, and through the heart of Arctic wildlife territory.
The expedition ends in Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost settlement at 79°N—a place few have the chance to visit. While scientists and researchers arrive by plane, and some visitors by boat, we take the true explorer’s route—crossing the Arctic wilderness on skis. This is more than just a journey; it’s a real expedition through the raw and untamed beauty of Svalbard.
Pre-expedition requirement: Arrival and Briefing
We recommend you to have at least one night in Longyearbyen before the expedition departure.
We begin in Longyearbyen the day before expedition start with a full gear check and sledge packing. Your guide will go through safety procedures, equipment, and route details to ensure you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Note: Accommodation, meals and transfer is not included for the first day/night in Longyearbyen. We can help arrange accommodation.
Day 1 – Boat transfer to Borebukta and the ski journey begins
In the morning you will be picked up from your accommodation. A boat will take us across Isfjorden to Borebukta, where we set foot on Oscar II Land. From here, we start our ski crossing journey, heading north towards Ny-Ålesund. The first day on skis will be spent finding our rhythm while navigating the Arctic landscape from Isfjorden towards Kongsfjorden. This time of year we will have the midnight sun which will never set which means we will have 24 hours of daylight but not neccessary the sun. This way we do not need to adjust our time to darkness and can do the stages in our pace.
Day 2 to 6 – Traversing the Arctic Wilderness and skiing through Oscar II Land glaciers
Over the next four days, we move through a spectacular mix of glaciers, valleys, and plateaus. Expect long days of skiing, breathtaking views, and remote camps under the Arctic sky. We’ll experience the raw beauty of Svalbard as we push towards our goal: the legendary research town of Ny-Ålesund in Kongsfjorden.
While in camp, you'll gain hands-on experience in Arctic survival. We’ll work together to set up camp and boiling snow into water for food and drinks. Our knowledgeable Arctic guides will teach you vital survival skills and share practical tips to help you adapt and thrive in the challenging winter conditions of the Arctic.
Day 7 – Return to Longyearbyen
After a well-earned rest in Ny-Ålesund, we board a boat for our return journey to Longyearbyen, taking in the stunning fjord landscapes from a new perspective.
Post expedition recommendation: Buffer day with rest & recovery
A flexible day to relax, unwind, and let the adventure sink in. If the weather was challenging earlier, this day serves as a buffer for adjustments. For those with energy left, we recommend a gentle walk or sightseeing tour to explore Longyearbyen.
Note: Accomodation, meals and transfer in Longyearbyen is not included for this night
The Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions about your experience—what to bring, how to prepare, and what to anticipate on the journey. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us—we are here to help!
1. Do I need previous ski experience to join the across country ski expedition?
No, but it is recommend that participants should have previous experience with cross-country skiing and be physically fit. The expeditions range in difficulty, but a basic level of skill is required to handle challenging Arctic conditions.
2. What type of skis do I need for the crossing expedition?
For Svalbard expeditions, we use specialized skis suited for Arctic terrain, such as cross-country skis with steel edges. You can rent or bring your own equipment. If you have questions, feel free to contact us regarding the equipment.
3. What are the weather conditions like in Svalbard?
The weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures ranging from -5°C to -20°C in May. Wind and snowstorms are possible, so it’s important to be prepared for extreme weather and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
4. Do I need to book in advance for a ski expedition?
Yes, we highly recommend booking your expedition in advance. Early booking guarantees your spot and allows us to tailor the experience to your needs.
5. How can I join a ski crossing expedition if I’m traveling solo?
Solo travelers are welcome! Our ski expeditions are designed to cater to small groups, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers. We ensure a supportive and safe environment for all participants.
6. What kind of wildlife will I see on the ski crossing expedition?
Svalbard is home to diverse Arctic wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot animals like Svalbard reindeer, polar foxes and even polar bears from a distance. However, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and safety precautions are in place when in polar bear territory.
7. What is the "Polar Bear Watch", and why is it important?
Due to protection laws, no tour is allowed to be focussed on finding and seeing polar bears. If spotted you must keep your distance for safety reasons. The legal distance is 300 metres in summer and 500 metres in winter.
Polar Bear Watch is an essential safety measure during all ski expeditions in Svalbard. Given the presence of polar bears in the region, your guide will monitor the surroundings for any bear activity.
Everyone will take turns on polar bear watch at night. For many, this quiet, solitary time under the midnight sun becomes one of the highlights of the journey. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the Arctic wilderness and reflect on life in a way that few people ever experience.
If a polar bear is sighted, the group will be immediately instructed to take safety precautions. Polar bear protection is vital, and guides are trained in bear safety and using deterrents like flare guns and rifles.
8. What equipment do I need to bring, and what equipment will you provide?
For the ski expedition, you need the clothings, sleeping bag, matress, harness, shovel and ski equipment. A throughout packing list will be provided upon booking. You may rent sleeping bag, matress, harness, shovel and skiing equipment in Longyearbyen.
We provide all tents, cooking equipment, pulkas and safety kits required for the expedition. If you’re unsure about any gear, feel free to ask us for advice on what to pack.
9. What happens if the weather is too dangerous to proceed with the ski expedition?
Your safety is our priority. If weather conditions make the expedition too dangerous, the guide will assess the situation and may adjust the itinerary or postpone parts of the expedition. We always have contingency plans in place to ensure your safety.
10. What happens if I can’t continue the expedition due to exhaustion or injury?
If you are unable to continue, your guide will assess the situation and arrange for evacuation or assistance as needed. There are safety protocols in place to ensure that every participant is safe and well taken care of. Search- and Rescue operations are covered by our insurance.
11. Do I need travel insurance for the ski crossing expedition?
Yes, you need a travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and trip cancellations. It’s essential to ensure you’re covered in case of unforeseen events during your Arctic adventure.
12. How do I get to Svalbard?
You can fly into Longyearbyen, the main settlement in Svalbard, via connecting flights from Oslo. Once in Longyearbyen, we will arrange transportation on the expedition departure day to the start of the expedition. We do recommend to have at least one night before the expedition and 2 nights after.
13. How are meals provided during the ski expedition?
Meals are typically provided by the guides, focusing on energy-boosting meals suitable for the cold environment. If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance, and we will accommodate your needs.
Save your spot
Ski crossing to Ny-Ålesund
Do you want to join a ski expedition
Don’t just visit the Arctic—experience it in the most intimate, adventurous way possible. Reach out now to start planning your adventure.
