Svalbard Crossing
This tour is suitable for you who are in normal physical shape. It takes strength and fitness to pull a sled and walk for 4 days.
About the itinerary
Are you going with a dream of crossing Svalbard?
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition across Svalbard, traveling from east to west over four days. This is your chance to experience the raw, untamed Arctic wilderness, pulling your own sled and navigating through glaciers and remote landscapes.
Who Is This For?
This expedition is designed for adventurers in good physical condition. Pulling a sled and trekking for four days requires endurance and strength, so we recommend preparing in advance.
Get Expedition Ready and sign up to show your interest.
Are you ready to push your limits and experience the Arctic like never before?
Join the Svalbard Crossing – The Adventure of a Lifetime!
Price: NOK 24,990.
Tours for 2025: On request.
Day by day
Svalbard Crossing – A True Arctic Expedition
Experience the ultimate Arctic adventure as we traverse Svalbard from east to west. This journey takes you across vast glaciers, through remote wilderness, and into the heart of the High Arctic. Expect breathtaking landscapes, raw nature, and the thrill of true polar exploration.
Expedition Program
Day 1 – Arrival in Svalbard
Welcome to the Arctic! Once arrival in Longyearbyen, we’ll take you to our expedition centre for briefing. We’ll go through the equipment list, ensure everyone is properly prepared, and make any necessary last-minute purchases. Finally, we pack the sleds and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Journey to the East
- Pick-up from your hotel.
- Gear check and instructions for the 80 km snowmobile ride to Mohnbukta.
- Departure (two people per snowmobile). Remember to bring your driver’s license!
On arrival in Mohnbukta, we’ll enjoy lunch with a stunning backdrop. From here, the crossing begins as we head west towards Tempelfjorden. The first challenge is the ascent of Hayesbreen, a vast glacier.
In camp:
- Setting up tents, boiling water, and establishing a routine.
- Dinner under the Arctic sky.
- Nightly bear watch.
Day 3 – Into the Wild
- Breakfast and melting more water.
- Breaking camp and continuing up Hayesbreen.
As we ascend, we are surrounded by glaciers and towering nunataks—exposed mountain peaks rising through the ice. If visibility is clear, you’ll experience the true vastness of Svalbard.
Camp for the night: Near Panoramaberget, offering spectacular views.
- Dinner in camp.
- Bear watch, depending on conditions at this altitude.
Day 4 – Descending the Glacier
We continue our journey, descending the Von Post glacier—a smooth and steady route down. Camp is set up near the confluence of the Marit and Von Post glaciers, surrounded by dramatic Arctic landscapes.
Day 5 – Reaching the Fjord
- The final leg down to the fjord.
- Lunch before our scheduled pickup
This is a unique opportunity to experience Svalbard from the sea—keep an eye out for seals and whales as we return to Longyearbyen.
Once back in town, we return the equipment, check into the hotel, and enjoy a well-earned shower before gathering for a celebratory dinner.
Day 6 – Rest & Recovery
A flexible day to relax, unwind, and let the adventure sink in. If the weather was challenging earlier, this day serves as a buffer for adjustments. For those with energy left, we recommend a gentle walk to explore Longyearbyen.
Day 7 – Departure
Time to say goodbye to the Arctic.
Are You Ready?
The Svalbard Crossing is not just a trip—it’s an expedition. You’ll test your endurance, experience extreme nature, and leave with memories for a lifetime.
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime!
Book your spot today.
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.
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