S/Y Ylva - Ski and Sail Svalbard

One week Ski and Sail - close to the North Pole!

This isn’t your typical ski-and-sail trip. This is Svalbard’s wildest backcountry adventure.

This is a raw, exclusive expedition aboard Ylva — a rugged, elegant two-masted teak yacht, purpose-built for harsh conditions like Svalbard. The trip is designed for those who want more than just a postcard photo — this is for skiers who want to be in it. In the elements. On the mountain. Eye-to-eye with the Arctic.

At 78° North, phone coverage fades, and the noise of the world disappears. What’s left is a vast, silent wilderness of snow, ice, and jagged peaks stretching beyond the horizon. In early summer, the fjords can still be frozen — giving us the rare chance to anchor up straight by the ice edge and ski straight from the boat, or we use the zodiac to be dropped of at land.

Skiing at the edge of the Arctic

On Svalbard, we experience a full range of snow conditions - from soft powder to sun-warmed spring slush and firm, wind-shaped crust. We will likely experience a mix of it all. Therefore, we expect you to be a confident skier and to be in good physical condition

You’ll ski across open mountain slopes and vast glaciers, and with the midnight sun overhead, you can even ski at night. The feeling out here is something else. With no trees and endless horizons, the landscape makes you feel small — in the best possible way.

This open terrain also gives us a unique opportunity to scout for wildlife that depends on the sea ice — like seals, walrus, and even polar bears. With a bit of luck, we might catch a glimpse them. 

Life onboard

Ylva is your floating home and basecamp — offering stunning views, a cosy atmosphere, and all the comfort you need. With a small group of like-minded skiers on board, the vibe is relaxed and laid-back. Evenings are for unwinding, and what better way to do that than soaking in the wood-fired hot tub on deck — maybe even with a glacier as your backdrop.

This is raw nature, real challenge, and unforgettable moments!

This is what you get

• Ski untouched terrain that few (if any) have skied before
• Navigate glaciers, fjords, and sea ice to reach remote lines
• Anchor in secluded bays far away from civilization
• Head out with experienced Arctic guides and a pro sailing crew
• Relax in the onboard hut tub with a view of the mountains you just skied
• Digital detox for those who want it — phone coverage fades away, but Wi-Fi is available on board for those who prefer to stay connected

Some more details

• Price from 64,500 NOK per person for one week
• 8 days, 7 nights onboard
• Four comfortable cabins – most with private bathroom and toilet
• Available in May – send us an inquiry
  2026: Private groups up to 8 guests
  2027: Private groups and individual travelers
• Optional add-ons in Longyearbyen, such as accommodation, local food experiences, and other activities
• Small, exclusive groups – max 8 guests

Is this trip for you?

This expedition is for experienced ski tourers with good physical fitness. You should be confident in variable terrain and excited to earn every turn. This isn’t resort skiing — it’s remote, human-powered exploration in one of the most dramatic ski landscapes on Earth.

Ready to ski where few ever will?

Join Ylva on the ultimate Svalbard Ski & Sail expedition!