Svalbard Crossing
This tour is suitable for you who are in normal physical shape. It takes strength and fitness to pull a sled and walk for 4 days.
About the itinerary
Are you going with a dream of crossing Svalbard?
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition across Svalbard, traveling from east to west over four days. This is your chance to experience the raw, untamed Arctic wilderness, pulling your own sled and navigating through glaciers and remote landscapes.
Who Is This For?
This expedition is designed for adventurers in good physical condition. Pulling a sled and trekking for four days requires endurance and strength, so we recommend preparing in advance.
Get Expedition Ready and sign up to show your interest.
Are you ready to push your limits and experience the Arctic like never before?
Join the Svalbard Crossing – The Adventure of a Lifetime!
Price: NOK 24,990.
Tours for 2025: On request.
Day by day
Svalbard Crossing – A True Arctic Expedition
Experience the ultimate Arctic adventure as we traverse Svalbard from east to west. This journey takes you across vast glaciers, through remote wilderness, and into the heart of the High Arctic. Expect breathtaking landscapes, raw nature, and the thrill of true polar exploration.
Expedition Program
Day 1 – Arrival in Svalbard
Welcome to the Arctic! Once arrival in Longyearbyen, we’ll take you to our expedition centre for briefing. We’ll go through the equipment list, ensure everyone is properly prepared, and make any necessary last-minute purchases. Finally, we pack the sleds and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Journey to the East
- Pick-up from your hotel.
- Gear check and instructions for the 80 km snowmobile ride to Mohnbukta.
- Departure (two people per snowmobile). Remember to bring your driver’s license!
On arrival in Mohnbukta, we’ll enjoy lunch with a stunning backdrop. From here, the crossing begins as we head west towards Tempelfjorden. The first challenge is the ascent of Hayesbreen, a vast glacier.
In camp:
- Setting up tents, boiling water, and establishing a routine.
- Dinner under the Arctic sky.
- Nightly bear watch.
Day 3 – Into the Wild
- Breakfast and melting more water.
- Breaking camp and continuing up Hayesbreen.
As we ascend, we are surrounded by glaciers and towering nunataks—exposed mountain peaks rising through the ice. If visibility is clear, you’ll experience the true vastness of Svalbard.
Camp for the night: Near Panoramaberget, offering spectacular views.
- Dinner in camp.
- Bear watch, depending on conditions at this altitude.
Day 4 – Descending the Glacier
We continue our journey, descending the Von Post glacier—a smooth and steady route down. Camp is set up near the confluence of the Marit and Von Post glaciers, surrounded by dramatic Arctic landscapes.
Day 5 – Reaching the Fjord
- The final leg down to the fjord.
- Lunch before our scheduled pickup
This is a unique opportunity to experience Svalbard from the sea—keep an eye out for seals and whales as we return to Longyearbyen.
Once back in town, we return the equipment, check into the hotel, and enjoy a well-earned shower before gathering for a celebratory dinner.
Day 6 – 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 to explore Longyearbyen.
Day 7 – Departure
Time to say goodbye to the Arctic.
Are You Ready?
The Svalbard Crossing is not just a trip—it’s an expedition. You’ll test your endurance, experience extreme nature, and leave with memories for a lifetime.
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!
Book your spot today.
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
- Beanie
- Buff/neck, neoprene mask
- Polarized sunglasses
- Goggles / ski goggles
- Warm mittens
- Gloves
- Wool underwear; longs + jersey + extra change
- Intermediate garments; wool or fleece
- Down jacket
- Windproof shell clothing
- Wool socks
- Bottle 1 L / 2 á 0.5 L Nalgene
- SPF Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Toe and hand warmers
- Thermos 0.8 – 1 L
- Skis/splitboards
- Crampons
- Ski boots
- Helmet
- Shovel
- Probe
- Sender/receiver
- Tooth brushing + other hygiene items
- lip balm
- Pain reliever/ necessary medication / compeed
- Personal enjoyment, ie book, crossword, music
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.
Get in Touch Today
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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