14th July 2025 to 23rd July 2025
Svalbard: All the way north to the polar ice edge by sailboat
From £4145 per person
Deposit 30%. Balance due 12 weeks before departure
An unparalleled journey into the heart of the North. These remote regions of Svalbard showcase towering glaciers that meet the sea, and wildlife that thrives in an otherworldly environment.
9 nights: 14 - 23 July 2025
Price: 54,800 NOK/£ 4,145 per person*
Sailing into the Arctic is like stepping into another world! The air is crisp, the sights are mind-blowing, and the vibe? Absolutely electric! There's a sense of calm and raw power in the surroundings. You'll see glaciers that tower over the sea, and wildlife like polar bears, seals and walrus that you might have only even seen in films.
Every single day is packed with something new. You'll explore places where history was made, like Ny-Ålesund, the launchpad for Arctic explorers. We’ll cruise along the ice edge, keeping an eye out for incredible wildlife, and celebrate with champagne at the Northernmost point of Norway all under the glow of the midnight sun.
Experiencing the atmosphere, tranquillity, and sounds along the polar ice edge is the goal and focus of this expedition. To help you understand it all and deepen your appreciation for the area, experts on board are there to share insight into the Arctic's history, ecosystem, and how we can help protect it.
The sheer beauty of it all and the untouched landscapes remind us of how special this planet really is. It’s a journey that leaves a mark, making you realise just how crucial it is to protect these incredible places for the future.
Why You’ll Love This Trip
- Travelling up North means possibly meeting walruses in Forlandsundet and exploring Kongsfjorden with Ny-Ålesund, the launch site for Amundsen's "Norge" blimp.
- Experience the pyramid peaks Dana, Nora, and Svea, named after Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Quite surreal,
- Explore the remains of a bustling whaling hub at Smeerenburgfjord and soak up polar tales at Virgohamna. It's like diving into history books while on this epic adventure!
- You’re in for an icy quest toward Rossøya, Svalbard's northernmost spot. Hunting the ice's edge, scouting for wildlife, and who's up for an icy swim celebration? Chill vibes all around (literally!).
- You'll be beaming at the trip's end as we pass Isfjord Radio, turned hotel, and the unique vibe of the Russian mining town of Barentsburg.
- No cruise ships here. You’ll travel onboard a 70-foot expedition sailboat with expert guides to lead the way.
Who The Trip Is For
- This is a voyage for adventurers who crave unique landscapes and wildlife sightings. The sailing isn't overly challenging, yet you might experience both calm and rough conditions.
- If you are a team player, you’re in! Everyone is involved in onboard tasks such as cleaning and cooking on a shift basis.
- Beginners receive guidance, while experienced sailors gain added responsibilities within the crew's watch teams.
- The small crew size means you’re likely to form strong connections with other passengers, as you sail through the Arctic's waters. It’s an opportunity to meet new like-minded people.
- If you're keen on eco-friendly adventures, sailing with us will align with your environmental values. We are committed to environmental responsibility in all our sailing and tourism activities and strive to minimize our carbon footprint to preserve the Arctic's pristine beauty.
*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.
Day 1: The adventure begins!
We meet by the boat in the harbor of Longyearbyen at 14:00. We start by getting to know each other before we go through the plan for the week. We familiarize ourselves with the boat and equipment and stow the boat with provisions and equipment. Life on an expedition requires cooperation, and before departure, we go through routines and procedures onboard, for sailing and emergency situations. In Longyearbyen, there is midnight sun this time of year, and we will make the most out of the afternoon and evening to sail towards the mountain Alkehornet on the opposite side of the Isfjorden. Throughout the night we continue our voyage on the inside of the island Prins Karls Forland, and through the narrow passage by Forlandsrevet.
Day 2: The world’s northernmost settlement
If we are lucky, we might get to meet a walrus colony in Forlandsundet already this first morning. A little further north we reach the entrance to Kongsfjorden, where the research town Ny-Ålesund is situated. Here we moor for a trip ashore. Ny-Ålesund is also known as the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s voyage to the north pole with his airship “Norge”. Kongsfjorden is considered to be one of the most beautiful fjords in all of Svalbard. The perfect time to get our cameras set up and start snapping some good memories. In the heart of Kongsfjorden are three pyramid-shaped mountains: Dana, Nora, and Svea – named after the three Scandinavian countries. The combination of the mountains and the majestic glaciers in the area make the fjord a truly breathtaking sight.
Day 3 – 4: Around the northwest corner towards the ice!
Around the northwest tip of Spitsbergen, we find a wonderful “archipelago”, with large islands, mountains and glaciers, instead of small islets and cays. Well past these islands, and possibly having spent the chance for a trip ashore, we set our course straight up towards the polar ice! This could be a longer sea crossing of one to two days, or only a shorter leg to the northern tip of Sjuøyane/Nordaustlandet. This year’s ice conditions will decide!
Day 5: Wildlife safari along the ice edge.
When we hopefully hit the ice edge, we follow it eastwards and see where the sea clears up as we get closer to land. The ice decides again. We sail calmly along the ice while we scout for bears, seals and other animals. We have experienced that the whales also thrive around the ice edge. At our northernmost point, we find both cold champagne and a suitable ice floe from the pole ice for a real celebration! Who will be the first to go for a swim at above 80 degrees north??
Day 6 – 7: Around Sjuøyane and southwards
After memorable experiences all the way up here by the polar ice, and perhaps an expedition dream about the North Pole planted in some of us on board, we have to turn the bow south. If we have hit the ice further south, we can have time to sail past Sjuøyane and Nordaustlandet on the way back. Maybe we will have time for a mountain hike here as well. To a viewpoint where we see south towards the glaciers that cover most of the entire Svalbard archipelago. Further south, we will sail past Verlegenhuken, the northernmost point on the island of Spitsbergen, and further past the fjords on Spitsbergen’s north coast. If we have enough time, we might sail by the trapping station Mushamna, with its well protected lagoon, for a night’s rest at anchor.
Day 8 – 9: Back towards civilization
The last few days are spent heading back towards Isfjorden. Where we adapt landings and excursions to the distance covered and remaining time. We certainly have only seen a fraction of all the exciting places along the northwest coast on our way north, so we’ll have another opportunity now. The northwest corner is full of cultural remains, around Smeerenburgfjorden and Virgohamna. And at the entrance to Isfjorden, the large fjord where also Longyearbyen is located, we pass Isfjord Radio. An old radio station that was once the Svalbard community’s only communication with the outside world. Today it is an attractive accommodation. When we enter Isfjorden, we hopefully have time for a stop in the Russian mining town of Barentsburg; a special place with its own rhythm and atmosphere.
Day 10: Back to Longyearbyen and goodbye!
On the last morning, we sail into Longyearbyen, clean and wash the boat, pack our things, and check out at 14:00. We encourage everyone to stay at least until the next day, with accommodation on land, if possible. So, we could meet for a farewell dinner on land in Longyearbyen this last night. Thanks for a terrific adventure!
In Longyearbyen
If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience Longyearbyen before the trip, we recommend staying an extra day or two before traveling home. It’s always smart to add time for rest and resetting before and after such a trip, to let the impressions sink in and feel the vibe.
Changes to the program
The program should be seen as a starting point, which we adapt depending on weather and conditions underway. We reserve the right to constantly improve the program for the better. With us along the way, we always have dinghies for beach landings and small expeditions. We have fishing equipment for the cod, and hiking equipment for bonfires and summit climbs – we are ready for adventure, are you?!
- A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper with local knowledge on board
- Co-skipper and crew/guide on board
- All food we eat on board during the trip
- Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
- 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 equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
- All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
- Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
- Survival suit and Search and Rescue (SAR) Insurance for everyone on board
- Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
- Travel to and from the start/end location
- Optional meals at cafes/restaurants during the trip
- Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
- Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
- Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
- Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, 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 Longyearbyen
Very few row to Longyearbyen, a few more sail, but most fly. Norwegian and SAS fly to Longyearbyen.
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 crewmembers on board. Feel free to contact us to discuss risk.
Safety and risk – expedition
On our expedition trips, we often spend multiple days on sea-crossings, and we sail into areas far from people and with extra risk factors, such as sea ice and unreliable navigations charts. This requires our crew to have extra focus and awareness of the potential situations that might arise. We sail in these areas only in the most optimal seasons, and use only our largest and most sturdy boats, which are both equipped and dimensioned to cope with this type of expedition sailing. We are fully aware that sailing is the safest and most accessible way to visit these very inaccessible places. However, sailing in general, and especially sailing in the Arctic and over the high seas, involves a certain risk that you must be willing to take. Feel free to contact us for a chat and guidance regarding risk.
Level of this trip
This is a trip for people who want to experience the Arctic, and the spectacular landscapes and the unique wildlife Svalbard has to offer! In terms of sailing, this trip is not very difficult, but you must be prepared for both calm winds and sailing in harsher weather. If you are a beginner, we want to make you a seaman/woman as soon as possible, and if you are experienced, you will quickly get more responsibility and greater challenges. The group and crew will be divided into watch teams so that we can learn from each other and help each other out.
Equipment/packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of specialized equipment and clothing for sailing. 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. What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered clothing underneath. A pair of higher rubber boots for landings from the dinghy is very nice to have, in addition to slippers to wear below deck. Out on the high seas and in the Arctic, it is cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. 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. You will be split into a watch team, with the teams working in rotations of 4 hours on and 8 hours off, with a rotating system to make sure that the night-shifts are divided equally among all watch teams. 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.
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. A morning swim in the sea is free and is available all year round!
What kind of people join this trip – and how many are we 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. Most of our participants are usually between 25-55 years old. The number of participants varies from trip to trip, but on these trips we are usually between 6 and 11 people.
Environment and sustainability
In general sailing is an environmentally friendly activity,, 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.
This trip start in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
This trip end in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
Day 1: The adventure begins!
We meet by the boat in the harbor of Longyearbyen at 14:00. We start by getting to know each other before we go through the plan for the week. We familiarize ourselves with the boat and equipment and stow the boat with provisions and equipment. Life on an expedition requires cooperation, and before departure, we go through routines and procedures onboard, for sailing and emergency situations. In Longyearbyen, there is midnight sun this time of year, and we will make the most out of the afternoon and evening to sail towards the mountain Alkehornet on the opposite side of the Isfjorden. Throughout the night we continue our voyage on the inside of the island Prins Karls Forland, and through the narrow passage by Forlandsrevet.
Day 2: The world’s northernmost settlement
If we are lucky, we might get to meet a walrus colony in Forlandsundet already this first morning. A little further north we reach the entrance to Kongsfjorden, where the research town Ny-Ålesund is situated. Here we moor for a trip ashore. Ny-Ålesund is also known as the starting point for Roald Amundsen’s voyage to the north pole with his airship “Norge”. Kongsfjorden is considered to be one of the most beautiful fjords in all of Svalbard. The perfect time to get our cameras set up and start snapping some good memories. In the heart of Kongsfjorden are three pyramid-shaped mountains: Dana, Nora, and Svea – named after the three Scandinavian countries. The combination of the mountains and the majestic glaciers in the area make the fjord a truly breathtaking sight.
Day 3 – 4: Around the northwest corner towards the ice!
Around the northwest tip of Spitsbergen, we find a wonderful “archipelago”, with large islands, mountains and glaciers, instead of small islets and cays. Well past these islands, and possibly having spent the chance for a trip ashore, we set our course straight up towards the polar ice! This could be a longer sea crossing of one to two days, or only a shorter leg to the northern tip of Sjuøyane/Nordaustlandet. This year’s ice conditions will decide!
Day 5: Wildlife safari along the ice edge.
When we hopefully hit the ice edge, we follow it eastwards and see where the sea clears up as we get closer to land. The ice decides again. We sail calmly along the ice while we scout for bears, seals and other animals. We have experienced that the whales also thrive around the ice edge. At our northernmost point, we find both cold champagne and a suitable ice floe from the pole ice for a real celebration! Who will be the first to go for a swim at above 80 degrees north??
Day 6 – 7: Around Sjuøyane and southwards
After memorable experiences all the way up here by the polar ice, and perhaps an expedition dream about the North Pole planted in some of us on board, we have to turn the bow south. If we have hit the ice further south, we can have time to sail past Sjuøyane and Nordaustlandet on the way back. Maybe we will have time for a mountain hike here as well. To a viewpoint where we see south towards the glaciers that cover most of the entire Svalbard archipelago. Further south, we will sail past Verlegenhuken, the northernmost point on the island of Spitsbergen, and further past the fjords on Spitsbergen’s north coast. If we have enough time, we might sail by the trapping station Mushamna, with its well protected lagoon, for a night’s rest at anchor.
Day 8 – 9: Back towards civilization
The last few days are spent heading back towards Isfjorden. Where we adapt landings and excursions to the distance covered and remaining time. We certainly have only seen a fraction of all the exciting places along the northwest coast on our way north, so we’ll have another opportunity now. The northwest corner is full of cultural remains, around Smeerenburgfjorden and Virgohamna. And at the entrance to Isfjorden, the large fjord where also Longyearbyen is located, we pass Isfjord Radio. An old radio station that was once the Svalbard community’s only communication with the outside world. Today it is an attractive accommodation. When we enter Isfjorden, we hopefully have time for a stop in the Russian mining town of Barentsburg; a special place with its own rhythm and atmosphere.
Day 10: Back to Longyearbyen and goodbye!
On the last morning, we sail into Longyearbyen, clean and wash the boat, pack our things, and check out at 14:00. We encourage everyone to stay at least until the next day, with accommodation on land, if possible. So, we could meet for a farewell dinner on land in Longyearbyen this last night. Thanks for a terrific adventure!
In Longyearbyen
If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience Longyearbyen before the trip, we recommend staying an extra day or two before traveling home. It’s always smart to add time for rest and resetting before and after such a trip, to let the impressions sink in and feel the vibe.
Changes to the program
The program should be seen as a starting point, which we adapt depending on weather and conditions underway. We reserve the right to constantly improve the program for the better. With us along the way, we always have dinghies for beach landings and small expeditions. We have fishing equipment for the cod, and hiking equipment for bonfires and summit climbs – we are ready for adventure, are you?!
Sailing boots
Trainers/ deck shoes (no black soled shoes please – they mark the deck)
Waterproof sailing kit (two sets are recommended. Heavy gear for on-board and lighter kit for trips ashore)
Hat
Balaklava
Sailing gloves – 2 sets
Glove liners
Hand warmers
Hot water bottle
Clothes for on-board and on shore
A small backpack for trips on-shore (30-40 litres)
A water bottle
Thermals, two sets
Thick socks, two sets
Sun glasses (polarized)
Sun cream – SPF50+
Small quick dry towel
Swimming kit
USB cord to charge your phone
Cash
Warm sleeping bag
Head torch
Sailing knife
Passport
Printed out Insurance details
Any medication you require
