Sail & Explore
Embark on a tailored Arctic adventure! Experience unmatched comfort, stunning landscapes, and expert guidance on an unforgettable journey.
About the itinerary
Sail & Explore
Welcome to a sailing adventure in the Arctic! We offer tailor-made trips from 8 June – 4 September. With an experienced sailing team and a solid boat for Arctic conditions, we will ensure high comfort and a pleasant and good atmosphere on board.
With our ships, we can offer trips for groups of up to 6 people and 10 people. We want to achieve a pleasant stay on board, using good safety equipment and professional guides and sailors. By sailing with small groups, we can easily disembark in different places, and we get to use the time for good experiences

Day by day
Top tours without snowmobiles:
- 1 person; 6000 kr
- 2 persons; 7500 kr
- 3 persons, 8500 kr
- 4persons, 10 00 kr
- 5 persons 11 500 kr
- 6 persons 12 500 kr
Top tours with snowmobiles:
- 1 person; 10 000 kr
- 2 persons; 12 500 kr
- 3 persons; 15 000 kr
- 4 persons; 17 500 kr
- 5 persons; 20 000 kr
- 6 persons; 22 500 kr
Included in price
THE PRICES INCLUDE
- Transport to and from the hotel
- Hot drinks and snacks
- A Svalbard-guide with safety equipment
- Snowmobile and scooter clothing
- SAR insurance
Clothing and equipment hire
We recommend dressing in layers for optimal warmth and comfort. Wear wool as a base layer, add one or two insulating layers, and finish with a windproof and waterproof shell. Bring a down jacket in your backpack for extra warmth during breaks. For snowmobile-assisted tours, a thermal snowmobile suit will be provided.
If you need gear, both ski equipment and avalanche safety equipment are available for rent.
- Full equipment package: NOK 1000
- Avalanche safety kit (beacon, shovel, probe): NOK 500
- Ski package (skis, skins, boots, poles): NOK 800
Why choose a tour with us?
We offer tours that are specially adapted to you and your group. With us you get flexibility in where it is best to go, when we will start the trip, and on top of it all; if you fancy a “double-lap”, we can also offer that!
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
- Beanie
- Buff/neck, neoprene mask
- Polarized sunglasses
- Goggles / ski goggles
- Warm mittens
- Gloves
- Wool underwear; longs + jersey + extra change
- Intermediate garments; wool or fleece
- Down jacket
- Windproof shell clothing
- Wool socks
- Bottle 1 L / 2 á 0.5 L Nalgene
- SPF Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Toe and hand warmers
- Thermos 0.8 – 1 L
- Skis/splitboards
- Crampons
- Ski boots
- Helmet
- Shovel
- Probe
- Sender/receiver
- Tooth brushing + other hygiene items
- lip balm
- Pain reliever/ necessary medication / compeed
- Personal enjoyment, ie book, crossword, music
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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