Oscar II Country
6-day Arctic journey through Oscar II Land, featuring nordic ski expedition and breathtaking glaciers. Visit Ny-Ålesund, the northernmost settlement in the world, and experience Svalbard’s wild beauty like never before
About the itinerary
7-day trip in Oscar II country
Oscar II Land Ski Expedition – A True Arctic Traverse
Duration: 7 days
Distance: ~80 km
Difficulty: Advanced
Start & End: Longyearbyen
An Arctic Expedition Across the Untouched Wilderness of Svalbard
Step into the heart of the Arctic and embark on a challenging yet rewarding ski traverse through Oscar II Land. This six-day expedition will take you across remote glaciers, vast valleys, and stunning fjords, all while pulling your own sled. This is a journey for the adventurous skier looking for a true backcountry experience in one of the world’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Tours for 2025: May 10-16
Price NOK 31, 150 pr pers
Day by day
Oscar II Land – A Hidden Gem of Spitsbergen
Embark on an unforgettable ski expedition through Oscar II Land, one of Svalbard’s most breathtaking and untouched regions. This journey takes you across vast glaciers, towering peaks, dramatic fjords, and through the heart of Arctic wildlife territory.
The expedition ends in Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost settlement at 79°N—a place few have the chance to visit. While scientists and researchers arrive by plane, and some visitors by boat, we take the true explorer’s route—crossing the Arctic wilderness on skis. This is more than just a journey; it’s a real expedition through the raw and untamed beauty of Svalbard.
Polar bear safety
Everyone must take turns being polar bear watch at night. For many, this is the best time of the whole expedition, precisely because they get to be alone up under the midnight sun, how many think thoughts they have never thought before. Maybe you get to reflect on life?
Practical info
You can borrow a tent from Backyard Svalbard. We have sleeping bags and sleeping mats for hire, if you need them.
In camp, we learn to survive in the Arctic nature. We set up tents, boil water for food, drink and cleaning, and we make outdoor gear. The guide will surely show you smart tricks to survive in the winter arctic.
Tour Overview
Day 1 – Expedition Preparation
We begin in Longyearbyen with a full gear check and sledge packing. Your guide will go through safety procedures, equipment, and route details to ensure you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Day 2 – Boat Transfer & The Journey Begins
A boat will take us across Isfjorden to Ekmanfjorden, where we set foot on Oscar II Land. From here, we start our 80 km ski journey, heading north towards Ny-Ålesund. The first day on skis will be spent finding our rhythm while navigating the Arctic landscape.
Days 3–6 – Traversing the Arctic Wilderness
Over the next four days, we move through a spectacular mix of glaciers, valleys, and plateaus. Expect long days of skiing, breathtaking views, and remote camps under the Arctic sky. We’ll experience the raw beauty of Svalbard as we push towards our goal: the legendary research town of Ny-Ålesund in Kongsfjorden.
Day 7 – Return to Longyearbyen
After a well-earned rest in Ny-Ålesund, we board a boat for our return journey to Longyearbyen, taking in the stunning fjord landscapes from a new perspective.
Who is this trip for?
This expedition is designed for experienced skiers with good physical endurance. You should be comfortable skiing with a loaded sledge over long distances and in varying Arctic conditions.
What’s Included?
- Professional Arctic guide
- Boat transfers to/from the expedition route
- Expedition meals and snacks
- Group camping equipment
- Sledges and harnesses
What You Need to Bring
- Personal ski touring equipment
- Proper Arctic clothing
- Sleeping bag and sleeping mat
- A spirit for adventure!
Join us for an unforgettable ski traverse through Oscar II Land – an expedition that will challenge and inspire you in the vast and untouched wilderness of Svalbard
Book your spot now!
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
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse pulvinar dui sit amet euismod egestas. Duis sit amet risus orci. Sed finibus sodales aliquet. Morbi dignissim massa eget ex semper, nec aliquam mi viverra. Nam ultrices, arcu nec pellentesque efficitur, orci purus tempor orci, ac faucibus lacus turpis non magna.
Fredrik Aurell
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse pulvinar dui sit amet euismod egestas. Duis sit amet risus orci. Sed finibus sodales aliquet. Morbi dignissim massa eget ex semper, nec aliquam mi viverra. Nam ultrices, arcu nec pellentesque efficitur, orci purus tempor orci, ac faucibus lacus turpis non magna.
Clement Carasco
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse pulvinar dui sit amet euismod egestas. Duis sit amet risus orci. Sed finibus sodales aliquet. Morbi dignissim massa eget ex semper, nec aliquam mi viverra. Nam ultrices, arcu nec pellentesque efficitur, orci purus tempor orci, ac faucibus lacus turpis non magna.
Jonas Haass
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse pulvinar dui sit amet euismod egestas. Duis sit amet risus orci. Sed finibus sodales aliquet. Morbi dignissim massa eget ex semper, nec aliquam mi viverra. Nam ultrices, arcu nec pellentesque efficitur, orci purus tempor orci, ac faucibus lacus turpis non magna.
Niall Finch
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse pulvinar dui sit amet euismod egestas. Duis sit amet risus orci. Sed finibus sodales aliquet. Morbi dignissim massa eget ex semper, nec aliquam mi viverra. Nam ultrices, arcu nec pellentesque efficitur, orci purus tempor orci, ac faucibus lacus turpis non magna.
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
For this trip you will need the following:
- Wool super underwear x2
- Wool socks x2
- Mittens and gloves
- Personal buff/face mask
- Toiletries
- Sunglasses, sunscreen
- Outer jacket + trousers. Shell/softshell
- Wool sweater
- Light down jacket
- Sleeping bag comfort -15
- Waterproof bags for keeping smaller items in
- Skis, ski boots, traps, poles.
- Climbing harness (can be rented)
- Book/crossword puzzle/audio book/music for alone time.
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
A descriptive paragraph that tells clients how good you are and proves that you are the best choice that they’ve made.
