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Various dates available

Ski & Sail, Lofoten, Norway 5 Days

From £2170 per person

Deposit Payment in Full
This long weekend Ski & Sail is a trip for those who like the idea of alpine skiing and randonné in the untouched Lofoten mountains of Northern Norway.
Clear
Suited to
Couples, Individuals, Groups
Difficulty
No sailing experience is required, however, you are encouraged to take part in the routines onboard the sailboat. Some experience with randonnée/alpine touring/backcountry skiing
Nights onboard
4
Vessel type
Bavaria 44 or Bavaria 50 Cruiser
Vessel length
13.6 metres or 15 metres
Skipper
Yes
Berth Style
5 Single and Double Cabins across 5 Cabins. Max 10 people aboard. Sometimes, we travel in tandem with other vessels
Insurance Required
Yes

This long weekend is ideal for anyone who loves the idea of alpine skiing and lots of sailing.

from 28,500 NOK / £2,170 per person*

*Trips are priced in the operator’s local currency. The sterling amount shown is a guide only and the amount you pay in sterling will change with currency fluctuations.

Ski & Sail, Lofoten, Norway 5 Days

Duration: 4 nights with various dates in March 2024 are available.

Join us for an unforgettable long weekend in the untouched Lofoten mountains of Northern Norway. Ski and sail your way around this region. This trip is for travellers wanting a more challenging and rewarding holiday, who like the idea of alpine skiing and randonné in the untouched Lofoten.

The Lofoten Islands are famous for their alpine mountains and peaks. There are great numbers of natural pistes, offering possibilities and options for a wide range of skiers. Most of the trips offer 700 - 1000 metres of altitude, and the skiing most often ends down on the beach. Many of the most spectacular places are available by boat only. That is why we sail.

Explore Austnesfjorden's varied terrain and ascend the mesmerising Geitgaljen. Wake up to the awe-inspiring Trollfjorden, conquer its towering peaks, and unwind by the bonfire after a refreshing fjord swim. Conclude your journey with thrilling skiing in Raftsundet before returning to Svolvær.

For our Ski & Sail trips, we use ski guides with local experience and knowledge, who also work as instructors and coaches for us. Having a ski guide available onboard each boat makes us more certain we'll find the best snow available, and it can make it possible for us to do more challenging skiing and summits. This is an unforgettable Ski & Sail odyssey, where adventure and nature intertwine harmoniously.

Why You’ll Love This Trip

  • Explore the untouched beauty of the Lofoten mountains, where alpine skiing and majestic landscapes converge.
  • Ascend breathtaking peaks like Austnesfjorden and the mythical Trollfjorden, unlocking hidden gems accessible only by boat.
  • Ski alongside expert local guides, who not only navigate the terrain but also share their knowledge and passion for the region.
  • Connect with like-minded travellers from around the world, forging friendships and sharing memorable moments as you bond over a shared passion for exploration and skiing.
  • Enjoy the serenity of spending nights at anchor in natural harbours, immersing yourself in the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Who The Trip Is For

  • On this trip, we require some experience with randonnée/alpine touring/backcountry skiing. You should have skied or snowboarded before, and been on backcountry/touring trips.
  • This trip is tailor-made for adventurers who crave exhilarating challenges and unforgettable experiences. Forge connections with like-minded travellers, share stories, and create lasting friendships amidst the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes.
  • Travellers who want to see the world in a sustainable way. The trip emphasises sustainability in every possible way, both on and off the boat.
  • Those who embrace the flexibility of ocean travel. While we will attempt to reach as many destinations as possible, the final route will be determined during the trip depending on the weather conditions.

Want to know more about what it's like to go on a Ski & Sail adventure? Read our story.

Itinerary: Ski & Sail, Lofoten – 5 Days

As a sailing ship, we are largely dependent on the weather. We will attempt to reach as many destinations as possible under sail, however, the specified itinerary is simply a guide. With all tours as exciting as this, flexibility is important as the final route will be determined during the trip depending on the weather conditions.

Day 1: Meeting on the dock in Svolvær

We meet in the harbour in the centre of Svolvær at 16:00, get settled into the boat and get to know each other. We will walk you through safety routines while on board, and let you get familiar with the boat before we set sail. We cast off before the evening and anchor in a natural harbour. We eat dinner on our way, but probably quite late, so we recommend you eat dinner before the meeting, if possible.

Day 2: Skiing in Austnesfjorden

We go ashore after early breakfast. The ski guide and I will make a final decision about where to ski based on weather, snow conditions, and wind conditions. Our first day of skiing in Austnesfjorden gives us a lot of options, such as Higravtindan and Geitgaljertind, the most demanding summits. Rundfjellet and Kvittind are also excellent options. This fjord offers many possibilities and many very nice phases and peaks in the afternoon, so we do not need to sail far.

Day 3: Austnesfjorden

With its varied terrain and opportunities for fun under a variety of conditions, the Austnesfjord is where we stay. If the weather gods are on our side, we might try climbing Geitgaljen, one of Lofoten’s most spectacular summits. When the snow conditions are good, you can descend this hill all the way to shore. After relaxing for a while, we sail out of the fjord and spend the night in Trollfjorden.

Day 4: Trollheimen

This morning we wake up in the magnificent Trollfjorden, a bay available to sailors and boaters only. If the conditions allow, we head upwards early before the sun starts warming up the hills, reaching for the towering peaks here of above 1000 metres above sea level. After coming back we hope to enjoy some time together around the bonfire after the mandatory swim in the fjord!

Day 5: Raftsundet

Early skiing on this last day in Raftsundet. Then we sail back towards Svolvær, packing our stuff together and tidying up the boat. We will be back at the dock in Svolvær at 16:00 latest. The bus and speed ferry depart by the harbour, and the distance to the airport is not far, but please add some wiggle room when booking your return transport.

 

  • Trip experience with a sailboat – experienced and locally familiar skipper/instructor on board
  • Guided trips every day – experienced and locally familiar ski guide
  • Small groups – max 6 participants per ski guide
  • Our Comfort Package consists of accommodation onboard in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
  • All the food we eat on board during the trip
  • An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic, and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
  • A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
  • A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
  • Use of our shared trip-equipment: dinghy, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
  • All boat-related expenses such as diesel, gas, harbour fees, etc.
  • Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
  • Travel to and from the start/end location
  • Optional meals at cafés/restaurants
  • Ski and avalanche equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)
  • Personal snacks for excursions on land (it’s smart to bring a little extra snack)
  • Drinks like wine, beer, or cider and other luxury drinks (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
  • Entrance to galleries, museums, and similar, or other activities that you/we may come up with along the way
  • Travel/cancellation insurance – optional, but recommended

Travel – in general

Sometimes we have to fly, but not always. If you have the luxury of time, we always encourage you to travel as environmentally friendly as possible. Traveling slowly also allows you to start your holiday in a special way. Cycling, taking the train, or driving a car together can be good options! Feel free to add some extra time before and after your trip, since up north the weather can be unpredictable and might affect your plans!

Travel – Svolvær

If you have time then take the “Nordlandsbanen” train line to Bodø and the express boat (catamaran) or Hurtigruta (coastal express ferry) from Bodø to Lofoten. But Lofoten is far away for many, and most people end up flying. Then Svolvær is the nearest airport, or you can also fly to Leknes. Flights to Svolvær or Leknes are mostly with a connection in Bodø, and are possible to book through Widerøe, SAS and Norwegian. You can also fly directly from Oslo to and from Harstad/Evenes airport, and then take a bus from there to Lofoten and Henningsvær/Svolvær.

What exactly is Ski & Sail?

Ski & Sail is a trip concept where we sail to the feet of the mountains and start the ski trip by the edge of the water. By boat we can move from place to place, and choose mountain sides and areas based on weather and conditions. Ski & Sail is something Italian and French skiers have done in Norway since the 90s, and something Norwegians so far have only started to discover the joys of. SailNorway has arranged Ski & Sail trips in Helgeland, Steigen, Lofoten Islands, Lyngen, Finnmark, and on Svalbard for many years, and we dare say that we know many of the very best places along the coast. Skiing & Sailing is really cool!

Level of this trip – medium

On this trip we require some experience with randonnee/alpine touring/backcountry skiing. You should have skied or snowboarded before, and been on backcountry/touring trips. Regardless, we will set up the trip based on the experience of the group, so that everyone has a great experience. On most of our Ski & Sail trips, we sail two or more boats in tandem, with one ski guide per boat. This depends on the number of participants we have signed up, but it allows us to split up into groups based on the participants’ prior experience. If you have a lot of experience and on skis, you will still find the opportunity to challenge and enjoy yourself on the trip.
If you are wondering if this trip is a good fit for you, feel free to contact us so that we can help you find the tour that best fits your wishes and needs – whether you are a beginner or are very experienced.

Safety and risk – in general

We take safety seriously and on our trips we train on handling different situations that can occur at sea. On board a boat and on trips, everyone must know what to do in potentially dangerous situations. For us it is important that you as a guest and participant are trained quickly enough to be a participant – not a passenger. It contributes to learning, a sense of achievement, and increased safety for all. It’s also why our trips are considered to be sailing courses: you are trained to be one of the crew members on board. Feel free to contact us to discuss risk.

Safety and risk – Ski & Sail

We have the same mindset when it comes to skiing and alpine/backcountry trips. The first day of skiing we train on search and rescue techniques and the use of avalanche equipment. Many elements determine the safety of an alpine/backcountry trip. Good planning, humbleness in relation to weather and avalanche risk, and a good group dynamic are important. It is also crucial that you follow the guide’s instructions in the mountains to ensure safety. Skitouring and alpine/backcountry skiing involve a certain risk, as does sailing. However, we at SailNorway, and our skippers and ski guides, do everything we can to minimize the risk in a professional manner.

Snow conditions

We work with locally knowledgeable ski guides and plan the trips based on the latest available local reports and forecasts. If we are in a place without snow, we sail to where the snow is! With the sailboat we are flexible with regards to finding the best snow, meaning that we may sometimes go somewhere that is not mentioned in the program or a place that we might not have tested in advance ourselves. This adds to the excitement!

Equipment/packing

Equipment for ski touring and backcountry skiing is required for this trip, that means avalanche/ski backpack with beacon, probe and shovel, and touring skis (or splitboard) with skins and ski crampons. We have a few sets of avalanche equipment that can be hired through us if you let us know beforehand, and ski equipment can be rented through our partners. Crampons, climbing axes and harnesses / ropes are not required on our trips. We do not expect you to buy lots of new equipment to join any of our trips, so, use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, try to purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last. We will send you a detailed recommended packing list in good time before departure.

Food and cooking

On our trips you will be part of the crew onboard and get the chance to participate in all aspects of the running of the sailboat. This includes the cooking, where everyone is taking turns in the galley! Skippers and guides assist as much as they can along the way. Before the trip we set up a menu and purchase what is needed. We offer good menus with healthy “boat friendly” food. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account. During the trip, we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we stop and eat.

What we expect from you

We want you to take part in the routines onboard the sailboat, whether it is sailing, docking, navigating, looking for whales and icebergs, washing up, cooking, cleaning the boat, or contributing in other ways when required. Our trips require a little work from the participants – and you must be open to contribute and open up a bit socially. We have many different people with us on our trips, and most people get along very well. Our experience is that doing things with others out in nature, and not least doing things with new people with different personalities than one might be used to, is what creates the best, most interesting and memorable stories :)

Life on board and accommodation

Life on board a sailboat is social and pleasant, but for some it can be perceived as quite intimate and crowded, which one should be prepared for. On our trips everyone participates in the operation of the sailboat and everyone is considered crew. We would like to get to know you well and hope that you will get to know everyone else on the boat as soon as possible. It requires some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but the new acquaintances and completely raw nature experiences will take your focus as soon as you become comfortable with life at sea.
Accommodation on the boat is part of the fun. The accommodation is generally in shared cabins, some of which have a double bed and some of which have bunk beds. Figuring out who sleeps where can be a bit of a puzzle, but we do believe we’ve gotten quite good at it. Let us know if you have any special needs or reservations. You must arrange any accommodation before and after the trip on your own. If you have any doubts about where to stay, we’re happy to give you some recommendations.
We have plenty of heating and good food on the boat, but not always abundance of fresh water. This means it will not be possible to shower every day, but more or less every other day we are either in a harbor with fresh water or we sail through a place where we can borrow showers or enjoy a sauna. And a morning swim in the sea is always available all year round!

What kind of people join this trip – and how many will we be on board?

Many come alone, some travel as couples, and others travel as a group of friends. The common denominator for everyone is that these are fun and interesting people you will become friends with almost no matter what. Sharing grand experiences creates strong ties! Many people wonder about the age composition of our trips, but this isn’t so important to us. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old as long as you want to go on a trip and intend to do your part in making this a great trip for everyone. The number of participants varies from trip to trip. If we have many participants, we will expand with more boats and skippers. For Ski & Sail we are usually 1-2 boats with 7-9 people onboard each boat.

Environment and sustainability

Both sailing and alpine/backcountry trips are environmentally friendly activities, and we sail as much as we can and use the engine as little as possible. We encourage crew and participants to travel as environmentally-friendly as possible, and we use local ingredients and resources as much as we can. We also run trips where we collect litter and clean ocean trash from beaches.
Philosophically, we often say that sailing is an exercise in sustainability: we move with the wind and we have limitations on things like water, diesel, electricity and food. In order to run sustainably, knowledge, patience, flexibility, and hard work are required. The same can be said about many other things that one tries to do in a sustainable way.

Minimum number of registered participants

We need a minimum of 5 registered participants to run this trip. We are able to tell pretty early on whether a trip will be confirmed or not. If we have to cancel, you will get reimbursed or offered to join another trip. Since we need a certain number of registered participants to confirm a trip, please do not book your travel (flights, ferry, train, bus etc.) before we have confirmed your trip.

Fly to Harstad/Narvik Airport, then take a bus to Svolvær. Refer to “Other Practical Information” for more details.

Fly from Harstad/Narvik Airport, reached by bus from Svolvær. Refer to “Other Practical Information” for more details.

Itinerary: Ski & Sail, Lofoten – 5 Days

As a sailing ship, we are largely dependent on the weather. We will attempt to reach as many destinations as possible under sail, however, the specified itinerary is simply a guide. With all tours as exciting as this, flexibility is important as the final route will be determined during the trip depending on the weather conditions.

Day 1: Meeting on the dock in Svolvær

We meet in the harbour in the centre of Svolvær at 16:00, get settled into the boat and get to know each other. We will walk you through safety routines while on board, and let you get familiar with the boat before we set sail. We cast off before the evening and anchor in a natural harbour. We eat dinner on our way, but probably quite late, so we recommend you eat dinner before the meeting, if possible.

Day 2: Skiing in Austnesfjorden

We go ashore after early breakfast. The ski guide and I will make a final decision about where to ski based on weather, snow conditions, and wind conditions. Our first day of skiing in Austnesfjorden gives us a lot of options, such as Higravtindan and Geitgaljertind, the most demanding summits. Rundfjellet and Kvittind are also excellent options. This fjord offers many possibilities and many very nice phases and peaks in the afternoon, so we do not need to sail far.

Day 3: Austnesfjorden

With its varied terrain and opportunities for fun under a variety of conditions, the Austnesfjord is where we stay. If the weather gods are on our side, we might try climbing Geitgaljen, one of Lofoten’s most spectacular summits. When the snow conditions are good, you can descend this hill all the way to shore. After relaxing for a while, we sail out of the fjord and spend the night in Trollfjorden.

Day 4: Trollheimen

This morning we wake up in the magnificent Trollfjorden, a bay available to sailors and boaters only. If the conditions allow, we head upwards early before the sun starts warming up the hills, reaching for the towering peaks here of above 1000 metres above sea level. After coming back we hope to enjoy some time together around the bonfire after the mandatory swim in the fjord!

Day 5: Raftsundet

Early skiing on this last day in Raftsundet. Then we sail back towards Svolvær, packing our stuff together and tidying up the boat. We will be back at the dock in Svolvær at 16:00 latest. The bus and speed ferry depart by the harbour, and the distance to the airport is not far, but please add some wiggle room when booking your return transport.

 

As with all activities, there is plenty of specialised equipment and clothing for sailing. You are not expected to buy lots of new equipment to join any of our trips, so, use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, try to purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last. What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered clothing underneath.

Some jackets may not be waterproof enough, or might not perform well in saltwater, so you might want to consider purchasing or renting a set of “oilskins” to use on the wettest days. Even in summer, it can be cold at sea, so bring both swimwear and warm clothing.

You will receive a detailed recommended packing list in good time before departure.

Packing

  • Pack like a sailor; in a soft bag or backpack, NOT in a rigid suitcase
  • Pack as little as possible, but bring what you need!
  • The fewer items you bring, the faster you sail, and the less time you spend fooling around with your gear

Adventure-wear

  • Woollen underwear – shirt and long johns/zip longs (bring two pairs so you have spare)
  • Woollen socks (multiple pairs) and woollen soles (bring two pairs so you have spare)
  • Woollen scarf/buff/high neck and hat (preferably warm and windproof)
  • Mittens or gloves preferably with wind or water-resistant covers
  • Woollen sweater, preferably a turtle-neck
  • Warm pants, preferably multi-layered with warmer materials. (For use on the deck or while sailing)
  • Warm winter jacket – down jacket or preferably Primaloft (as they can handle water)
  • “Shore” clothing for exploring towns
  • Sea/sailing/rain/rubber boots, preferably winter-style. Bring some big enough so that they breathe even with woollen socks and woollen soles
  • Light shoes/sandals/crocs that breathe well. (For use indoors and on deck in nice weather)
  • Trainers/deck shoes (no black-soled shoes please – they mark the deck)
  • Sailwear/oilskin – jacket and pants (we rent out/sell good quality oilskins at reasonable prices, see separate information)
  • Sailing gloves (not a must) and here you can also use skiing gloves or rubber/fishing gloves with wool liners

Other equipment

  • Sunglasses (polarised lenses are ideal, but not essential)
  • Sunscreen (water-resistant, SPF 30 or higher)
  • Water bottle(s), minimum 0,75 – 1 litre, hydration reservoir (Camelbak)
  • Small washing cloth and soap
  • Towel and swimming gear
  • Flask (insulated bottle) for hot water
  • A head torch (preferably one with a dimming function/red (night) light)
  • Walking boots, shoes for onshore, and trainers with good grip
  • Sea sickness and personal medication
  • Camera
  • We have enough life vests for everyone, but if you have a vest of your own that you want to use, then bring it! Make sure to unscrew the gas cylinder before checking in your bag at the airport

Electronics

  • Onboard the boats there are USB (USB-B ‘regular’ USB, no USB-C) outlets for charging phones when we sail. 220V outlets are available when we’re docked
  • We have cellular coverage most of the time in Mainland Norway

Skiing equipment

  • Skis or split board with fitted climbing skins and ski crampons, boots and poles!
  • Skis should be packed in a ski bag, boots in a boot bag/bag for storage on board and easy & safe transportation to the shore in the dinghy.
  • When we go in the dinghy in between the mother vessel and land, we use rubber boots in order not to get wet. We then change into ski boots on the beach. Bring watertight boots as high as possible. The absolute best are waders that fly-fishers use.
  • Avalanche safety kit: Shovel, probe and transceiver/beacon (with extra batteries) – Everyone going ski touring must have a complete kit!
    (We have a few kits for rent, which can also be rented in Henningsvær/Tromsø)
  • Ski clothing
  • Helmet and goggles
  • (Skiing) Backpack, 30 – 50 litre capacity
  • Ski crampons are recommended.
  • Splitboard-crampons required. For icy/hard conditions.
  • Boot ice crampons and an ice axe (we normally do not plan any runs that require this, so it’s optional, not a must)
  • Map of the area
  • Compass

Note: This is a recommended packing list