Ski & Sail expeditions in Svalbard

Ski and sail expeditions in Svalbard combine two powerful modes of Arctic exploration: Sailing and ski touring. From a small expedition vessel, you gain access to remote coastlines, isolated fjords and untouched mountain terrain far beyond the reach of land-based travel. 

Sailing and ski touring in the most remote places on Earth

Each day is shaped by weather, sea, ice and opportunity. You may sail through dramatic Arctic landscapes in the evening and ascent a remote peak directly from the shorline in the morning. This is an expedition designed for ski touring- and backcountry entuasiasts who vallue the possibility to create new lines in powder snow in one of the most remote places on Earth. This is something only a few can say they have done.  

Open to read the itinerary

Ski crossing expeditions 2027

New ship 2027

Ski & Sail in Svalbard

expedition with Saeftinghe

Departure: May 2027 (Departure every saturday)

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Last chance 2026

Ski & Sail in Svalbard

Exploration with Ocean Sherpa

Departure: May 2026 (Only one spot left)

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Practical information for ski & Sail in Svalbard

Who can participate?

These expeditions are suited for you who are physically fit and in good physical condition. You are comfortable in cold and remote environments. You need to be able to ascent and descent which requires endurance and strength, so we recommend preparing in advance. You need to have backcountry skiing experience.

Ski and sail on Svalbard with Backyard Svalbard

The Guides

Peter Alex Wainwright

ACMC – Ski guide

Clement Carasco

Ski guide

Jonas Haass

Arctic Nature Guide and Splitboarder

Niall Finch

Arctic nature guide and ACMC glacier guide

Andreas Gschwentner

Svalbard guide with SGO

Brage James Fuglestad

Arctic Nature Guide with AST 2

Fredrik Aurell

Experienced guide

Erlend Kjørsvik

CEO and arctic nature guide with AST 2

Ronny Lauritz Berntsen

Experienced Guide Specializing in Expedition & Ski Touring

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!

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.

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.

The season typically runs from late April to mid-May, offering long daylight hours and excellent snow conditions for ski touring.

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.

To ensure a personalized experience, group sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 6 to 10 participants.

The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper descents, with opportunities to explore untouched Arctic snowfields and breathtaking glacier landscapes.

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.

We recommend packing warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing suitable for Arctic conditions. A detailed packing you can find above in the packing list.

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.

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.

The first step to start your expedition:

Experience the small, raw and deeply personal Svalbard expedition - the way adventures should be on a Svalbard crossing

How to plan your stay on Svalbard

Don’t just visit the Arctic—experience it in the most intimate, adventurous way possible. Reach out now to start planning your adventure.

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