Skiing at the ‘Edge of the World‘
Experience ski touring like never before: skiing on pristine arctic peaks and voyaging on an expedition boat are just the beginning of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Ski at the edge of the world, far away from the crowded routes, about midway between the northern coast of Norway and the North Pole. As you embark on this journey along remote, untouched, snowy paths under the midnight sun, your understanding of vastness will change with each passing day.
Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago 6 degrees south from the North Pole, 1,050 km (650 mi) away. Almost 60% of the archipelago is covered with glaciers, and the islands feature many mountains and fjords.
This chunk of land in the middle of the Arctic Ocean is where you’ll be skiing & sailing for 8 to 10 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 is one of those places where your imagination wanders to when you’re looking at the world map.
The ski ascent on the Svalbard peaks is challenging yet extra rewarding at the same time: you can be the first, or one of the first, 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. 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: this unique terrain offers something for every ski level.
A modern expedition on a traditional ship
While ski touring out of Longyearbyen is easy, getting deeper into the Svalbard wilderness takes some planning. Boats (sail or otherwise) are key for an adventure like this, providing flexibility and safety. The boat sleeps up to 25, including a four-member crew, a chef, a couple of guides, and a bunch of hearty guests who love ski touring, good food, and epic scenery! 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. The boat taking you on this adventure around Svalbard has a four-member crew, a chef, a couple of guides, and you: the guests!
The Noorderlicht
You will stay on a 150-foot, three-masted schooner called The Noorderlicht: originally built in 1910, this magnificent boat boasts over 100 years of history, 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!
Your guides
Rob Coppolillo is an AMGA and IFMGA Mountain Guide. In fact, Rob’s one of the first 100 Americans to have earned international certification through the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA).
Tom Wolfe is an ACMG and IFMGA Mountain Guide. He guides year-round, with winters being a mix of ski guiding at lodges, heli-ski operations, and remote backcountry destinations.
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.
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