Skiing at the
Edge of the World
Experience ski touring like never before. Skiing on pristine arctic peaks and voyaging on an expedition boat are just the beginning of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Ski at the edge of the world, far away from the crowded routes, about midway between the northern coast of Norway and the North Pole. As you embark on this journey along remote, untouched, snowy paths under the midnight sun, your understanding of vastness will change with each passing day.
Svalbard, the edge of the world
Svalbard is a Norweigian archipelago 6 degrees south from the North Pole, 1,050 km (650 mi) away. Almost 60 percent of the archipelago is covered with glaciers, and the islands feature many mountains and fjords.
This chunk of land in the middle of the Arctic Ocean is where you’ll be skiing & sailing for 8 days. When you’re that north, we’re no longer talking about a ski & sail trip, we’re talking about a ski & sail expedition. It is one of those places where your imagination wanders to when you’re looking at the world map.
- 78° TO 80° NORTH
- ENDLESS SUMMITS
- COBALT SKY
- DEEP-BLUE SEA
- 24 HOURS OF DAYLIGHT
Unlimited terrain under
the Midnight Sun
UNLIMITED PEAKS FOR UNLIMITED SKIING
Be the first — or one of the first— to ascend and descend epic peaks jutting into the cobalt sky. The endless terrain is remarkably accessible.
Most of the skiing is consistent with low 30-degree angles, but steeper skiing can be found for anyone looking to challenge themselves.
SNOW AND SKI CONDITIONS FOR EVERY TASTE
During the week, snow covering the untracked lines can vary from dry Arctic powder to perfect spring corn. Committed ski-tourers will find beautiful runs within sight of the town, under 24 hours of daylight.
Ski slopes vary from low-angle open bowls to technical chutes — unique terrain offers something for every ski level.
A surreal experience awaits
Safe sailing in the Arctic
SAIL ON A FLOATING POLAR BASECAMP
While ski touring out of Longyearbyen is easy, getting deeper into the Svalbard wilderness takes some planning. Boats are key for an adventure like this, providing flexibility and safety. All boats feature an attentive crew, a chef, and experienced mountain guides.
You will reach the ski slopes by rubber dinghy, powered by an outboard motor. Step onto land, strap on your skis, and begin the climb!
Scenic climbs give way to long, beautiful runs back to the water, where a comfortable boat and a warm meal await you at the end of each day. There are currently two boats available, Rembrandt van Rijn and Noorderlicht—read more about them below and choose your perfect match.
REMBRANDT VAN RIJN
Rembrandt van Rijn is the largest one of the Svalbard expedition ships, offering an unparalleled level of class and comfort. Built in 1924 as a fishing lugger, Rembrandt is a gorgeous, three-masted schooner with great potential and a crew of 11—meaning that it’s capable of sailing 24 hour a day, and your guides will aim to travel further north with this one. There’s a spacious dining room, a bar, private showers & toilets in each cabin, cabin upgrades, and two large zodiacs for rapid shore transport. Rembrandt can accommodate up to 30 guests.
NOORDERLICHT
The Noorderlicht is a 150-foot (50-meter) long, three-masted schooner, which has proven to be an ideal vessel for this adventure. This magnificent boat prides itself on over 100 years of history—originally built in 1910, she served in WW2 and is now an expedition boat. With her, you’ll sail countless coves and experience the archipelago the way it’s meant to be experienced! The Noorderlicht can welcome 12 passengers.
Your guides
Tom is an ACMG and IFMGA Mountain Guide. He guides year-round, with winters being a mix of ski guiding at lodges, heli-ski operations, and remote backcountry destinations. Summers are a split between guiding climbing trips in the mountains of BC and guiding paddling trips on rivers in Canada’s western shield country.
Chris left a comfy university position for the vagaries of guiding a number of years ago. Research expeditions, tour guide engagements or private adventures have lured him to the Arctic and Antarctic at least for some time of each year ever since 1985. He holds degrees in Geography, Geology and Cultural Anthropology and a Ph.D.
Your expert guiding team (up to 4 guides) is experienced in avalanche terrain and trained to handle any medical emergencies. Let your hospitable hosts ensure you have the best experience possible on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
