Easy glacier hike
Enjoy a leisurely family glacier walk, viewing ice formations and crevasses while learning intriguing Arctic stories in a secure and comfortable environment.
About the itinerary
Explore Svalbard's Glacial Wonders on a Fun and Family-Friendly Adventure!
This exclusive tour is new in Backyard Svalbard’s portfolio and will take you on a one day tour to discover the unique glacier environment and its specificities.
The guide will pick you up from the hotel at 08:00 and starts by first explaining the program for the day before dressing you up in a warm suit and heading for the harbour.
Then a RIB-boat is going to transport you to the other side of the main fjord called Isfjorden. Amazing landscape all along the way is assured. The boat will drop you off in front of the glacier called Borebreen in Borebukta after an approximately 1 hour long boat ride.
Glacier Exploration and Arctic Picnic: An Exciting Adventure.
To make sure that you are still warm, you’ll take your first coffee/warm drink of the day and learn about the glacier equipment that you will use during this trip (crampons, harness, helmet and ice axe). Do not worry, you don’t need any previous glacier experience to join this trip, but you should be in good physical shape as walking with crampons can be a bit exhausting.
Then, your guide will bring you onto the glacier following a safe route among the crevasses and beautiful sceneries. For safety, you will be tied in to a rope team during this adventurous progression. You will most likely also challenge your comfort zone.
Can you imagine a better place to eat than up on a glacier in the Arctic? We can’t… so that’s where our guide will set down the lunch spot and let you enjoy the scenery from.
After some more glacier exploration, it’s slowly time to head back for the shore to be picked up by the boat and drive back to town with many new memories that will last a lifetime.
Day by day
Program for the day:
- 08:00 Pick up
- 08:15 Briefing and suiting up
- 08:45 Departure from Lyb harbour
- 10:00 Drop off in front of the glacier
- 11:00 Start hike to the glacier
- 17:00 Pick up from the glacier
- 18:30 Back at the hotel
Book the trip directly with us via e-mail. A payment link will be sent to you so you will have the possibility to pay with your credit card.
The trip includes:
- Transportation to and from the hotel
- Boat transfer
- Lunch, snacks, and coffee
- A Svalbard guide with safety equipment
- Glacier equipment
- Search- and rescue insurance
Practical information
In summer, the average temperatures are between +3°C and +8°C and the weather can change quickly, so don’t forget to pack warm clothing. For the whole trip you will be accompanied by our local guide who will take care of your safety and comfort and be there to answer any question you might have about the nature and history around us.
Minimum number of participants: 4 persons
Maximum number of participants: 6 persons
The Guides
Christoph Hofer
Christoph hails from the mountains of Austria, where the air smells of pine and adventure. His passion for skiing and mountaineering ignited a fire within him—a fire that burns bright even on the iciest slopes. Armed with ice axes and a heart full of wanderlust, Christoph thrives in frozen wonderlands.
Peter Alex Wainwright
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Fredrik Aurell
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Clement Carasco
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Jonas Haass
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Niall Finch
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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
- Shell pants (water and windproof)
- Shell jacket (water and windproof)
- Hiking boots and warm socks (thin merino wool)
- Hiking underwear (long-johns and t-shirt)
- Down jacket or wool jumper
- Beanie and thin buff
- Sunglasses
- Gloves and mittens
- Medium backpack (25L to 40L)
- Water flask
- Camera
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!
1. What is included in the Ski and Sail package?
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.
2. Do I need prior ski touring experience?
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.
3. What is the best time of year for Ski and Sail in Svalbard?
The season typically runs from late April to mid-May, offering long daylight hours and excellent snow conditions for ski touring.
4. What safety measures are in place during the tour?
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.
5. How many participants are on each trip?
To ensure a personalized experience, group sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 6 to 10 participants.
6. What kind of skiing terrain can I expect?
The terrain varies from gentle slopes to steeper descents, with opportunities to explore untouched Arctic snowfields and breathtaking glacier landscapes.
7. Do I need to bring my own ski gear?
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.
8. What kind of clothing and gear should I pack?
We recommend packing warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing suitable for Arctic conditions. A detailed packing you can find above in the packing list.
9. Are meals included on the boat?
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.
10. What wildlife might we encounter?
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.
How to reserve a spot?
Only booking through email at booking@backyardsvalbard.com for Ski and Sail.
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.
People Who Love Our Place
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