Ski & Sail
Experience your gateway to an unforgettable 8-day Arctic ski adventures and sailing trip on Svalbard where untouched snow meets endless sea. No internet. No noise. Just pure freedom, luxury comfort, and skiing where few have ever been.
10+ highlights for ski & sail on Svalbard
- We will explore the best places on Svalbard for ski touring
- Sailing along the coastline for the intimate, authentic experience
- The best powder on earth: Dry, light and it stays for days
- The beautiful Arctic lights: Midnight sun, pastel, twilight, blue sky
- An Arctic memory for life - Not many can say they have done this
- Get access to the most untouched fjords and summits on Svalbard on this ski expedition
- Absolute stillness: No lifts, no noise, no tracks, just wind and snow
- Only small groups for biggest experience
- Expert local ski guides who know terrain and conditions
- Possibilities of seeing Svalbard wildlife like walrus, whales, snowfox & polar bear
- Available period: 2026 May 2-9, May 9-16, May 16-23
- Pick up time:
- Difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced
- Age limit: 18 years
- Minimum /Maximum: 8 person / 10 persons
- Price per person: NOK 73.125,-
What you can look forward to for the ski touring and sailing expedition on Svalbard
The fjords in Svalbard and Lyngen are nature’s gift to ski fanatics. These are the ultimate places to go Ski & Sail. Surrounded by majestic nature – where mountains meet sea, you now have the chance to be with our guides in untouched mountain sides. Places you can only get to by boat!
Our guides take you out to new untouched mountain sides every day. On board the boat, the atmosphere is good, and you can relax and enjoy nature together with good company.
These tours are newly launched!
Travel dates and availability 2026
S/Y Ocean Sherpa
- May 2-9 : Few spots available
- May 9-16: Few spots available
- May 16-23: Fully booked
SV Moondance
- May 7- 15: Fully booked
- May 16- 24: Fully booked
- May 25- Jun 2: Fully booked
Itinerary: Day by day
These backcountry ski expeditions on Svalbard starts weekly on Saturdays. We recommend that you arrive at least one day prior to the expedition and have at least one day in town afterwards. We can help arrange accomodation and excursions in Longyearbyen if needed. Program can change due to weather conditions but this is an estimated program for the exploration:
Day 1: Heading towards distant shores
We will set sail from Longyearbyen and enjoy the beautiful sourunding going out into Isfjorden and hopefully we will have the possibility to spot some wildlife like walrus or whales. We will set anchor in a secluded bay, where the sight of towering mountains and glaciers will leave you speechless. Enjoy a light dinner onboard while your guide evaluates the conditions for the journey ahead and we will get to know one another better.
Day 2: First turns & first peaks
You will wake up to the most beautiful surroundings where you can enjoy your breakfast and a cup of coffee to the view. There's no internet out here. No notifications. Just you and the adventure ahead. Based on weather and snow conditions we will spend the day skiing from breathtaking peaks, carving through untouched snow. Return back on board for a warm meal before setting sail to the next destination.
Day 3: The rhythm of the wild
Now you have the routine that feels more natural: Sail, climb, ski, repeat. This is remote Skiing and we will explore hidden, pristine mountains in an area chosen for the best conditions. Every turn offers fresh snow and dramatic views. End the day with a scenic evening sail where we can share stories and reflections from the day hopefully under the midnight sun.
Day 4 & 5: Exploring the unknown
We are deep in the Arctic wilderness but our route adapts to the conditions, ensuring the best possible ski experience. We take our time and we'll be spending two nights in an extraordinary area, immersing ourselves in the untouched wilderness and creating memories to last a lifetime.
Day 6: The calm and views
We will see historic peaks & wilderness. Weather and conditions dictate our next stop, whether it's skiing in terrain shaped by glaciers or discovering remote slopes first explored by early adventurers. Soak in the solitude and raw beauty of the Arctic.
Day 7: Final ski touring day
Your guide selects the best slopes for the last day, ensuring an unforgettable experience based on the latest conditions. A perfect way to end an incredible adventure.
Day 8: Return to Civilization
After a week of exploration we drop anchor back in Longyearbyen. We disembark and it's time to say goodbye to your guides, to the sea, to the rhythm of simplicity and to your new friends. You head home with incredible memories from an Arctic journey shaped by nature itself.
The Guides
The Ship: Ocean Sherpa
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.
A part of the adventure in a small group
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.
Sailing on Svalbard with high quality
On Ocean Sherpa you have a floating base camp for your Ski & Sail adventure. On board you will be met by our professional crew of sailors and our guides.
The steel ship with a fantastic interior is 34.5 meters long, and can take a maximum of 10 guests, 4 crew and 2 guides.
The ship is equipped with 6 rooms with 2 beds, showers and separate sinks in each room.
On deck we have an inviting lounge with a bar, ready to both enjoy the view and for a delicious meal served by the chef in turn. Here there are good opportunities to observe the rich wildlife on Svalbard.
Life on board
More About the Ship
Embark on an unforgettable journey SV Moondance is more than a ship — she is your floating base camp for Ski & Sail adventures in Svalbard. Built for performance and comfort, she gives you the freedom to reach remote fjords, ski untouched slopes, and return each evening to warmth and excellent hospitality.
A home away from home.
Step aboard and relax in a bright, spacious saloon with large windows that frame the Arctic panorama. Share gourmet meals prepared by our onboard chef around a wooden dining table, unwind in comfortable staterooms with private showers and modern 220V sockets, and enjoy thoughtful touches that make life at sea easy and welcoming.
Sustainability at the heart
We operate with respect for the fragile Arctic environment. SV Moondance follows eco-conscious practices to minimize impact — from careful waste and fuel management to wildlife-friendly procedures — so you can explore responsibly and help protect the places we visit.
Built for exploration.
Equipped for Arctic conditions, Moondance features a robust hull, modern navigation and safety systems, and dedicated storage and handling for ski and mountaineering gear. Our experienced guides and crew tailor each day to weather, snow and group ability, giving you safe access to terrain that few people ever see.
Join Us Aboard!
With a small group size and an experienced crew, SV Moondance offers an intimate expedition atmosphere where you quickly feel like part of the team. Come for the skiing and scenery — stay for the shared adventure and unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the answers to the most frequently asked questions about our Ski and Sail experiences, such as what to bring, how to prepare, and what to anticipate on the voyage. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us—we are here to help!
1. What is included in the Ski and Sail package?
The package includes accommodation on board the sailing vessel, guided ski touring with certified guides, safety equipment, meals during the trip, and transfers in Longyearbyen. Ski gear rental is available upon request for an additional fee.
2. Do I need prior ski touring experience?
Yes, participants should have prior ski touring experience and be comfortable skiing in variable terrain. Good physical fitness is essential, as the Arctic conditions can be challenging.
3. What is the best time of year for Ski and Sail in Svalbard?
The season typically runs from late April to mid-May, offering long daylight hours and excellent snow conditions for ski touring.
4. What safety measures are in place during the tour?
Our certified guides are experienced in Arctic safety and carry avalanche and navigation equipment at all times. The sailing vessel is equipped with advanced safety gear, and we closely monitor weather conditions to ensure your safety.
5. How many participants are on each trip?
To ensure a personalized experience, group sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 6 to 10 participants.
6. What kind of skiing terrain can I expect?
The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper descents, with opportunities to explore untouched Arctic snowfields and breathtaking glacier landscapes.
7. Do I need to bring my own ski gear?
You are welcome to bring your own ski gear, but we also offer high-quality ski equipment for rent. Please let us know in advance if you need to rent any equipment.
8. What kind of clothing and gear should I pack?
We recommend packing warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing suitable for Arctic conditions. A detailed packing you can find above in the packing list.
9. Are meals included on the boat?
Yes, all meals are included while aboard the vessel, and we cater to dietary preferences if informed in advance. Expect delicious, hearty meals to fuel your adventures.
10. What wildlife might we encounter?
While wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, you may spot polar bears, seals, Arctic foxes, and a variety of seabirds during your trip. Our guides ensure all wildlife interactions are safe and respectful.
Boats & Availability
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How to prepare for the trip
Find the travel information for how to get to Svalbard for your next adventure. We can help plan your stay in Longyearbyen.
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