Ski & Sail in Svalbard: The Edge of the World
Somewhere between the North Pole and the northern coast of Norway lies Svalbard—a dreamlike archipelago that redefines skiing. Few journeys compare to this one, and you’ll feel it as soon as you board your expedition sailboat.
If that once-in-a-lifetime adventure exists, this is it.
For a week, epic glaciers, vast landscapes, and deep fjords will be our playground. Led by professional guides aboard a sturdy sailboat, we’ll cruise under the Midnight Sun through land that feels completely untouched. With each passing day in Svalbard, our understanding of wilderness & vastness will change.
Svalbard, the edge of the world
Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago just 6 degrees south of the North Pole, so it’s no wonder that almost 60% of it is covered with glaciers. The 9 main islands are packed with towering mountains and fjords—so incredible that it’s impossible to tell whether the skiing or the views are more unforgettable. Extra fun fact: you’ll fly into Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost settlement!
It’s this chunk of land in the middle of the Arctic Ocean where you’ll be skiing and 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’s rugged, remote, and wild out there—but our comfy and warm sailboat provides all the comfort that you’ll need.
- 78° TO 80° NORTH
- COUNTLESS PEAKS
- COBALT SKY
- SMALL GROUPS OF 12
- 24 HOURS OF DAYLIGHT
- EXPEDITION SCHOONERS
Unlimited terrain under
the Midnight Sun
UNLIMITED PEAKS FOR UNLIMITED SKIING
Be the first — or one of the first ever — 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 two boats available, Noorderlicht and Meander—read more about them below and choose your perfect match.
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.
MEANDER
Meander is a 30-meter (98.4-foot) two-masted staysail schooner, built in Hamburg, Germany, in 1946 and retrofitted for Arctic expedition sailing. Operating seasonally from Svalbard, she’s designed for ski-and-sail adventures and accommodates up to 12 guests, with optional en suite upgrades. Her compact size allows access to narrow anchorages and creates an intimate, personal atmosphere onboard.
Your guides
Tom is an ACMG/IFMGA certified Mountain Guide who calls Canmore home. 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.
