An epic 8-day ski touring journey sailing between glaciers, from fjord to fjord between remote mountains and skiing from summit to sea.
Join us on the most unforgettable 8-day ski and sail expedition on Svalbard. An Arctic ski adventure where untouched snow meets endless sea. Each day unfolds different and will take you through dramatic landscapes, remote mountains and unforgettable views.
From the trip description by Backyard Svalbard
On-snow support
- Independent: Below this trip's level of support
Ski or ride independently, without trip staff accompanying you on the mountain.
- Hosted: With your guide
Trip hosts ski or ride with the group, help everyone get oriented, and share local knowledge.
- Guided: Included
Professional guides lead the group and select suitable terrain and routes based on conditions and ability. Instruction is not included.
- Coached: Not included
Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.
- Backcountry guidingSkipper, first mate & expert ski touring guide with safety gear and polar bear protection; led by certified & local Svalbard experts. The ship can take a maximum of 10 guests, crew and 2 guides.
Terrain, ability and who it is for
- You have off-piste skiing experience
- Comfortable skiing in variable snow conditions
- Enjoy climbing with skins
- Have a good fitness level
- Want a real Arctic experience
- Are a complete backcountry beginner
- Are looking for ski touring lessons
- Are uncomfortable in steep terrain
- Have limited physical fitness
- 4/5 - intermediate to advanced ski level
- The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper descents, with opportunities to explore untouched Arctic snowfields and breathtaking glacier landscapes.
- We usually aim for around 800-1200 vertical meters per day depending on conditions, terrain and the group’s level.
- Sport
- Ski
- Max group size
- 8 guests
From the trip description by Backyard Svalbard
What the price includes
Included
- Lodging
- Meals
- Transfers · partly
- All shore landings with dinghy
- Skipper, first mate & expert ski touring guide with safety gear and polar bear protection
- SAR-insurance
- Sailing for 8 days in Svalbard
- Cabin, bedding and towels
- Fuel and all port dues
- Pick up/drop off at your hotel at the expedition start/end
- Breakfast and dinners on the ship
- Field lunch
- Snacks
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Coffee/ tea
- All shore landings with dinghy
- Standard offshore lifejacket and lifeline
- Sitting pad
- SAR-insurance
- Skipper, first mate & expert ski touring guide with safety gear and polar bear protection
Not included
- Lesson
- Ski and avalanche equipment · extra costAvailable for rent
- Flights to/from Longyearby
- Hotel in Longyearbyen for pre/post arrival
- Pick up/drop off at the airport
- Meals and beverages in Longyearbyen
- Ski and avalanche equipment (Available for rent)
- Travel & cancellation insurance
Not confirmed by the operator: Lift pass.
Day by day
- Day 1: Sailing to remote fjordsWe will be starting the expedition from the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement Longyearbyen. Step aboard T/S Saeftinghe where you will get your cabin and settle into life at sea. As we sail into the Arctic wilderness, enjoy stunning coastal views while your guides brief you on the upcoming adventure.Our first anchorage will be carefully chosen based on conditions, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. 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 backcountry ski tour in remote mountainsWake up in a remote bay to the most beautiful Arctic landscape where you can enjoy your breakfast and a cup of coffee to the view of untouched peaks. After breakfast we will head to shore for our first ski tour. There's no internet out here. No notifications. No rush. No schedule. Just conditions, decisions, you and the adventure ahead. Based on weather and snow conditions we will spend the day skiing from breathtaking peaks, carving through untouched snow and creating our own lines. Return back on board for a warm meal before setting sail to the next destination.
- Day 3: Glacier exploring and conquering Arctic peaksNow you have the routine that feels more natural: Sail, climb, ski, repeat. This is remote Arctic backcountry skiing and we will explore hidden, pristine mountains in an area chosen for the best conditions. Every turn offers fresh snow and dramatic views.During the evening we can share stories and reflections from the day hopefully accompanied by the midnight sun. The midnight sun season will give us long days with light and hopefully sun too.
- Days 4–5: Navigating fjords and going from summit to seaWe will be in the west coast of Spitsbergen exploring the fjords in the area of Krossfjorden. It is close to Ny-Ålesund so we might even pass by here. The fjord has a varied landscape with several branches and side bays as well as the glacierfronts.We navigate to the best ski touring spots in the fjords, skiing spectacular terrain far from the crowds and create new lines.We take our time and we'll be spending nights in an extraordinary area, immersing ourselves in the untouched wilderness and creating memories to last a lifetime.
- Day 6: High-Alpine descents & Arctic wildlife spottingSome days may bring long ascents to panoramic summits, followed by unforgettable descents towards the sea. Other days shorter tours may allow for mulitple runs. Weather and conditions dictate our journey, 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 epic descent & sailing back to civilizationIsfjorden has a lot of amazing spots for backcountry skiing. Your guide selects the best slopes for the last day, ensuring an unforgettable experience based on the latest conditions. A perfect end to an incredible adventure.We will scout for Arctic wildlife while sailing and hope to see whales, walrusses, birds soar and who knows maybe a polar bear in the distance.
- Day 8: Disembarkation and polar memories for lifeAfter 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.Pre- and post recommendation
From the trip description by Backyard Svalbard
Where you stay
- T/S Saeftinghe is equipped with 5 cabins with 2 beds in each, and separate sinks in each room.
- The toilet and bathing facilities are upgraded and comfortable. There are 4 toilets and 3 bathrooms.
- Included: Full board (exclusive alcoholic beverages)
Getting There
We will be starting the expedition from the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement Longyearbyen.
Pick up/drop off at your hotel at the expedition start/end
We highly recommend spending 1-2 days in Longyearbyen prior as well as after the expedition. Arctic weather can delay the return from the mountains, and these buffer days ensure you do not miss your flight.
From the trip description by Backyard Svalbard
Pins show the approximate main trip area—not a route, meeting point, or full itinerary. Confirm exact locations in the company's trip details.
Dates and prices
| Dates | Season | Duration | From | Availability | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 1 – May 8, 2027Choose these datesPrinted as "2027: May 1-8 - Fully booked" in the departure list. | 2026/27 | 8 days | 69,900 NOKNOK 69.900 per person; 8 days / 7 nights on T/S Saeftinghe; ski and avalanche equipment for rent at extra cost | Sold Out | Fully booked |
| May 8 – May 15, 2027Choose these datesPrinted as "2027: May 8-15" in the departure list. | 2026/27 | 8 days | 69,900 NOKNOK 69.900 per person; 8 days / 7 nights on T/S Saeftinghe; ski and avalanche equipment for rent at extra cost | Available | Save my spot on company website (no payment required immediately) |
| May 15 – May 22, 2027Choose these datesPrinted as "2027: May 15-22" in the departure list. | 2026/27 | 8 days | 69,900 NOKNOK 69.900 per person; 8 days / 7 nights on T/S Saeftinghe; ski and avalanche equipment for rent at extra cost | Available | Save my spot on company website (no payment required immediately) |
| May 22 – May 29, 2027Choose these datesPrinted as "2027: May 22-29" in the departure list. | 2026/27 | 8 days | 69,900 NOKNOK 69.900 per person; 8 days / 7 nights on T/S Saeftinghe; ski and avalanche equipment for rent at extra cost | Available | Save my spot on company website (no payment required immediately) |
| May 29 – Jun 5, 2027Choose these datesPrinted as "2027: May 29-June 5" in the departure list. | 2026/27 | 8 days | 69,900 NOKNOK 69.900 per person; 8 days / 7 nights on T/S Saeftinghe; ski and avalanche equipment for rent at extra cost | Available | Save my spot on company website (no payment required immediately) |
Prices, taxes and fees, required extras, inclusions, availability, and booking terms can change. Confirm the current price and trip details on the company website; source last reviewed September 24, 2026.
Good To Know
Yes, participants should have prior ski touring/backcountry experience and be comfortable skiing in variable terrain. Good physical fitness is essential, as the Arctic conditions can be challenging.
All departures have a minimum of 4 participants and a maximum of 8 participants.
In the rare event that we don’t get the minimum of 4 guests, then your booking will be cancelled and you’ll receive a full refund or the change to move to another departure if openings are available.
The itinerary is always weather dependent and the tour/activity can be modified due to safety concerns.
All tours are with english speaking guides.
From the trip description by Backyard Svalbard
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