Crossing Ski Expedition to Ny-Ålesund
7-day Arctic journey through Oscar II Land, featuring Nordic ski expedition and breathtaking glaciers. Visit Ny-Ålesund, the northernmost settlement in the world, and experience Svalbard’s wild beauty like never before.
About the itinerary
7-day trip in Oscar II country
Oscar II Land Ski Expedition – A True Arctic Traverse
Duration: 7 days
Distance: ~80 km
Difficulty: Advanced
Start & End: Longyearbyen
An Arctic Expedition Across the Untouched Wilderness of Svalbard
Step into the heart of the Arctic and embark on a challenging yet rewarding ski traverse through Oscar II Land. This 7-day 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 backcountry experience in one of the world’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Dates 2026: May 10 – 16
Price NOK 31, 150 pr pers
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.
Polar bear safety
During your Arctic expedition, 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.
Practical info
We offer top-quality camping equipment for your expedition, including tents. If necessary, sleeping bags and sleeping mats are available for rent.
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.
Tour Overview
Day 0 – Expedition Preparation
We begin in Longyearbyen 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.
Day 1 – Boat Transfer & The Journey Begins
A boat will take us across Isfjorden to Ekmanfjorden, where we set foot on Oscar II Land. From here, we start our 80 km ski journey, heading north towards Ny-Ålesund. The first day on skis will be spent finding our rhythm while navigating the Arctic landscape.
Days 2–6 – Traversing the Arctic Wilderness
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.
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.
Who is this trip for?
This expedition is designed for experienced skiers with good physical endurance. You should be comfortable skiing with a loaded sledge over long distances and in varying Arctic conditions.
What’s Included?
- Professional Arctic guide
- Boat transfers to/from the expedition route
- Expedition meals and snacks
- Group camping equipment
- Sledges and harnesses
What You Need to Bring
- Personal ski touring equipment
- Proper Arctic clothing
- Sleeping bag and sleeping mat
- A spirit for adventure!
Join us for an unforgettable ski traverse through Oscar II Land – an expedition that will challenge and inspire you in the vast and untouched wilderness of Svalbard
Book your spot now!
The Guides
Life on board
More About the Ship
Embark on an unforgettable journey
Our ship is more than simply a vessel; it’s a floating base camp for adventure. Designed to cruise the magnificent waterways of Svalbard, it blends robust durability with modern comforts, assuring a smooth and pleasurable ride regardless of the weather.
A home away from home.
Step aboard and enjoy warm, well-appointed staterooms that provide the ideal refuge after a day of exploring. Relax in the common lounge, with huge windows framing the ever-changing vistas, or have freshly prepared meals in our dining room, where you can swap tales and plan your day’s travels.
Sustainability at the Heart
We are devoted to maintaining the clean environment in which we work. Our ship uses eco-friendly measures to reduce its environmental impact and safeguard the sensitive ecosystems of the Arctic. Join us in our journey to explore responsibly.
Built for exploration.
The ship is equipped for Arctic conditions, with modern navigation systems and safety equipment, allowing access to inaccessible regions that few people have seen. Whether you’re skiing down unspoiled slopes, photographing animals, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings, our cruise is the ideal starting point for your journey.
Join Us Aboard!
With a small group size, our ship provides an intimate atmosphere in which you will immediately feel like part of the crew. It’s more than simply a trip; it’s a shared adventure into the wild, with each day marking a new chapter in your tale.
How to get to Svalbard
Reaching the Arctic Frontier.
Traveling to Svalbard is part of the adventure! Located far above the Arctic Circle, this secluded archipelago is surprisingly accessible, with daily flights from important European cities.
Fly to Longyearbyen.
Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s largest settlement, serves as the major entrance to the islands. Flights are available year-round with connections from Oslo and Tromsø in Norway. Major airlines like as SAS and Norwegian Air provide regular service, making it simple to arrange your trip.
Connect to Oslo or Tromsø.
Most overseas passengers will need to fly into Oslo, Norway’s capital. Take a direct trip to Longyearbyen or have a picturesque layover at Tromsø, the “Gateway to the Arctic.”
What You Need To Know
- Entry Requirements: Svalbard is a visa-free zone for most nations, although you may require a visa to enter mainland Norway.
- Packing Tips: Be prepared for Arctic conditions! Layers, durable footwear, and waterproof clothing are needed.
- Seasonal Travel: Flight schedules may change depending on the season, so check early to assure availability.
Packing list
For this trip you will need the following:
- Down jacket
- Shell jacket and pants
- Warm layers
- Woolen underwear/sports bra / long underwear
- Wool socks
- Hat, buff, mittens and gloves
- Googles and sun glasses
- Warm and sturdy winter boots (Camp boots)
- Water bottle 1 litre (Nalgene), or 2pcs 0,5L
- Mobile phone – Power bank
- Hygiene kit (tooth brush, etc.)
- Pain relief / required medications / compeed
- Self time activity (book, music, knitting..etc)
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping matress
- Insulating matress (thin insulation layer)
- Shovel
- Harness (if you have)
- Skis, skins, poles
- Warm skiing boots
- Thermos 0,8-1,0 L
A full packing list will be sent upon booking.
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 expedition?
Yes, 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 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 during ski expeditions?
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. Can I join a ski expedition if I’m traveling solo?
Yes, 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. Will I see wildlife on the ski expedition?
Svalbard is home to diverse Arctic wildlife, and you may have the chance to spot animals like reindeer, seals, 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?
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. During night we need a polar bear watch, so each participant needs to be on watch on shifts. 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 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 for the ski expedition?
You can fly into Longyearbyen, the main settlement in Svalbard, via connecting flights from Oslo. Once in Longyearbyen, we will arrange transportation to the start of the expedition.
13. 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.
How to reserve a spot?
Only booking through email at booking@backyardsvalbard.com.
For all other reservations, use our booking button below.
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