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Overview

Premium Ski & Sail: Ocean Sherpa Across Svalbard (April 18-25, 2026)
Longyearbyen
Apr 18 - 25, 2026
Klättermusen Experiences image
Klättermusen Experiences
€6,995
Deposit: €2,099

About your trip

For adventurous skiers and splitboarders drawn to snow-capped peaks, icy fjords alive with wildlife and untouched mountain terrain – this is your gateway into the Arctic’s raw frontier. Designed for seasoned, active travellers ready to climb and ski tour beyond the Arctic Circle, these journeys are not intended for beginners. Our small group size keeps each journey personal, so it’s best to book early.


Sail deep into remote fjords aboard the Ocean Sherpa—your 113-foot floating basecamp for a week of unforgettable ski touring and Arctic exploration. Departing from Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town, you’ll venture into a land shaped by ice, water and mountains. Each day offers the chance to ride across pristine, sea-facing slopes, with routes tailored for confident intermediates and seasoned skiers or splitboarders. With IFMGA-certified guides by your side every step of the way, you’ll carve fresh tracks beneath towering glaciers and above the Arctic waters—fully immersed in the rhythm of life at the edge of the world. Along the way, you might even see harbour seals sprawled on the ice, walruses lounging on rocky shores or polar bears hiding in the snow. 

Highlights Include

  • Live aboard the Ocean Sherpa, specially designed for Arctic expeditions.
  • Hike up and ride raw, remote slopes far from the crowds, with terrain options that suit intermediate and seasoned boarders.
  • Spot iconic Arctic wildlife—harbour seals, walruses and polar bears—in their natural habitats.
  • Explore historic sites, from centuries-old whaling stations to unique mining towns.
  • Share warm meals and stories onboard, soaking in the quiet magic of the high north.
  • Stay in the moment while a pro photographer captures the adventure, with a curated photo gallery to keep.
  • Travel with two expert guides—one IFMGA-certified, the other with a Norwegian Ski Guide qualification and Arctic wildlife expertise, including polar bear safety.

Activity Levels

Our trips are immersive and hands-on, created to help you connect with nature and push your boundaries. Feel free to move at your own pace, but prepare for an active outdoor experience. 


You’ll navigate Arctic fjords by boat and ski through remote, rugged mountain slopes—ascending on foot and descending on skis. This trip is best suited for agile boarders eager to experience Svalbard’s wild landscapes and explore off-the-map mountain terrain.

  • Average day: We’ll ascend and descend around 1,000 vertical meters (3,280 feet), spending four to six hours on the mountain. Our two expert guides will tailor each route to match group experience and conditions.
  • Challenge day: If the snow, weather and group align, we’ll take on steeper, longer routes—pushing further into the wild. It’s not tied to a fixed day but always on the radar.


Climate Conditions

  • Weather: Daytime temperatures range from -6°C to -2°C (21°F to 28°F), while nights dip to -12°C to -8°C (10°F to 18°F). Conditions can change quickly, so pack for wind, snow and sun.
  • Terrain: This is an ideal time for ski touring: remote Arctic summits, steady snowpack and untouched descents that feel worlds away from the ordinary.
  • Light: April brings a dramatic shift in daylight. Early in the month, you’ll have around seven to eight hours of direct sunlight—plenty for long tours. By mid-April, the returning midnight sun stretches daylight close to 24 hours, casting a golden glow across the peaks.

Klättermusen Experience Levels

How experienced should I be in the specific activities?

  • Discovery: I have no previous experience
  • Beginner: I’ve been practicing a bit
  • Enthusiast: I’m dedicating more and more time to this
  • Master: I’ve been regularly practicing for years


How fit should I be?

  • Straight out of the office: fitness is still a distant dream
  • Weekender: I love to get moving when I can
  • Fit: Sports are a part of my daily routine
  • Warrior: Training defines me


How much of an outdoor person should I be?

  • Curious: I know nothing to very little, but I’m eager to learn
  • Enlightened: I feel comfortable outdoors in most situations
  • Scout: I have some knowledge and a high threshold for changing weather
  • Explorer: I know a lot and love to be out in any condition


What kind of lodging should I expect?

  • Hotel: Best-in-class boutique hotel
  • Expedition sailing boat: Your home on water 
  • Lodge: Homey vibes in a comfortable setting
  • Huts & Cabins: The first step out of your regular routine
  • Adventurous: Camping & bivy in all weather conditions

Meet Our Guides

This experience will be led by two expert guides: one IFMGA-certified and one Norwegian Ski Guide with a specialisation in Arctic nature and wildlife. Together, they bring deep local insight, technical skill and a flexible, safety-first approach. These professionals don’t just follow the map—they adapt each day to the weather, terrain and group. Their expertise ensures you venture into remote, rugged landscapes with confidence and get the most out of every moment in the wild.


Angela Hawse 
Angela is one of few women IFMGA-certified mountain guides and has over 30 years of experience. She has led expeditions on some of the world’s highest peaks, including Denali, Ama Dablam, and Everest, and guided in Antarctica and Svalbard. Angela also serves as Vice President of the IFMGA Technical Commission.


Bård Strand

Bård is a Tromsø-based, Arctic-trained ski guide who has led expeditions across Svalbard, Greenland and Antarctica. He teaches polar bear safety at UNIS while also serving in the Norwegian Armed Forces.

Life at Sea

Our handpicked stays are locally owned, full of character and deeply connected to the landscape and culture. Expect comfort without excess, welcoming hosts and nature right at your doorstep.


Ocean Sherpa will be our home on the water for the entire journey. The 113-foot expedition sailing yacht is purpose-built for Arctic exploration and high-latitude expeditions, featuring centrally heated two-person cabins with ensuite bathrooms and private showers. On board, life is pared back and peaceful—the sea rocks you to sleep, and each morning brings a new peak to explore.

Global Rescue Travel Protection

In addition to mandatory travel insurance (covering helicopter Medevac and SAR), we recommend a membership with Global Rescue for extra coverage.


Klättermusen Experiences partners with Global Rescue, which provides worldwide medical and security assistance. Without coverage, emergency evacuations can cost over €80,000/$100,000.


Membership includes 24/7 expert support, field rescue, and evacuation to your chosen hospital.


Read more and become a member here: Global Rescue Link.


Questions about Global Rescue? Contact Dan Chomko at Global Rescue directly:


Email: dchomko@globalrescue.com
Call or Text (WhatsApp): +1 802 291 0855


You’re also always welcome to contact us at info@kmexperiences.com and we’ll help guide you in the best way.

Travel Guarantee for Your Security

We have arranged a travel guarantee with the Swedish Legal, Financial and Administrative Services Agency (Kammarkollegiet)


The travel guarantee means that you will be able to receive compensation if any part of your package trip or linked travel arrangements is cancelled in the event that we should become insolvent. In addition, this guarantee also ensures that you are entitled to compensation for the unfulfilled part of the package trip or linked travel arrangement for which we are responsible.

What's included

Life on the Ocean Sherpa

We’ll live how we travel—on the Ocean Sherpa, a 113-foot expedition topsail schooner built for Arctic adventure.

Professional photography

Our photographer will capture our adventure so you can stay present and enjoy the moment. After the trip, you’ll receive a digital photo library to relive the experience.

Local transport

We’ve got all your transportation covered, including pick-ups and drop-offs at the airport.

Expert guidance

This trip will be led by expert IFMGA-certified guides, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Sailing

Drift across Arctic fjords on a sturdy expedition sailboat, soaking in dramatic landscapes and tranquil waters.

Skiing & splitboarding

Skin up Svalbard’s remote peaks by foot, then carve fresh tracks down pristine slopes—trekking wild, peaceful backcountry far from the crowds.

All-inclusive meals

All meals are taken care of, featuring tasty, local dishes. We’ll ask for any dietary requirements or restrictions beforehand.

Refreshments

We’ll keep you refreshed with non-alcoholic beverages with your meals. You can bring your own water bottle or thermos to fill up and take along during the day.

A drink on us

Each evening, enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer with your dinner.

Klättermusen discount

Enjoy an exclusive discount on Klättermusen gear, with the option to pre-order for your arrival. You’ll also get the chance to test select gear on a complimentary basis during your trip.

Curated recommendations

You’ll get personalised recommendations throughout your journey to help you make the most of your time on the slopes.

Pre-trip support

We’re here to make sure you have everything for your trip. You’ll get all the details you need for your itinerary and packing list, plus unlimited support via email if you have any questions.

What's not included

Your journey to us

You’ll need to book your own flights to and from Longyearbyen Airport (LYR).

Extended stays

Any extra nights at the hotel outside the trip dates will be at your own expense.

Extra alcoholic drinks

Each dinner includes a drink on us. Additional alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the ship’s bar.

Personal expenses

Personal expenses like souvenirs and some alcoholic beverages aren’t included in the package.

Gratuities

Tipping your guides is up to your discretion.

Travel insurance

Guests must have travel insurance covering Medevac and SAR. A copy of your insurance certificate must be submitted to us before your trip begins. We also recommend a Global Rescue membership.

A note on the itinerary

A note on the itinerary image

Move with the wild

These highlights offer a sense of what to expect. But in true expedition style, each trip is shaped by the weather, snow conditions and the collective experience of the group. Your guides will adapt each day to make the most of the Arctic, so be ready for a dynamic adventure.

Day 1 (April 18)

Day 1 (April 18) image

Arrive in Longyearbyen and board the Ocean Sherpa

After your afternoon arrival, we’ll take a short drive to Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg—a former miners' barracks turned cosy hotel. Over drinks and snacks, you’ll meet your fellow travellers before heading to the harbour to board the Ocean Sherpa. Once we meet the crew and settle in, we’ll enjoy a welcome dinner while sailing into the majestic Isfjorden (Ice Fjord), anchoring before midnight.

Day 2 (April 19)

Day 2 (April 19) image

Ski Isfjorden’s snow-capped peaks

We’ll kick off the day with a hearty breakfast in Isfjorden, then set off to ski pristine Arctic peaks. Our expert guides will tailor the day to your pace and preferences—expect gentle slopes around 30 degrees, with steeper descents available for those seeking more of a challenge. After eating lunch surrounded by snow-capped mountains, we’ll get a few more runs in before skiing back down to the ship. As we glide toward St. John’s Fjord, you can relax, freshen up and enjoy a pre-dinner drink, followed by a delicious meal prepared by our onboard chef.

Day 3 (April 20)

Day 3 (April 20) image

Experience unforgettable runs in St. John’s Fjord

We’ll explore the dramatic terrain of St. John’s Fjord, flanked by towering glaciers and frozen peaks. Situated in Oscar II Land (named after the former King of Sweden and Norway), this region offers fresh mountains and unforgettable skiing. By now, you’ll be in tune with the rhythm of boarding, skiing and dining in wild places. If conditions allow, Captain Gerlé will set course for Krossfjorden in the evening.

Day 4 (April 21)

Day 4 (April 21) image

Explore Krossfjorden’s history and glacier-lined shores

For another day of skiing, we’ll sail to Krossfjorden, where Spitsbergen established its first whaling station in 1611. As we make our way through this remote region, you may spot remnants of its rich history scattered along its rugged shores. Massive tidewater glaciers dominate the landscape, creating a stunning backdrop for world-class ski touring. 

Day 5 (April 22)

Day 5 (April 22) image

Journey to the island of seals and walruses

We’ll journey to Prins Karls Foreland—a narrow, mountainous island that’s home to the world’s northernmost harbour seals and a prime spot to see walruses in their natural Arctic habitat. On the island’s rugged terrain, we’ll ski glaciers and summit icy peaks, taking in sweeping seaside views along the way. In the evening, we’ll sail back to Isfjorden for the next day’s adventure.

Day 6 (April 23)

Day 6 (April 23) image

Uncover Barentsburg’s hidden Arctic gems

Returning to land, we’ll spend most of the day skiing near the Russian-owned mining town of Barentsburg. We’ll dock in the harbour overnight, giving you a chance to explore this unique settlement shaped by a special international partnership. Capping off the day, we’ll visit The Red Bear Bar and Brewery—a lively gathering place for miners, scientists, polar explorers and adventurers alike.

Day 7 (April 24)

Day 7 (April 24) image

Finish strong with one last run through the mountains

On our final day on skis, we’ll return to Isfjorden to explore fresh mountain terrain before making our way back to Longyearbyen. To mark the end of our Arctic journey, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner aboard the Ocean Sherpa.

Day 8 (April 25)

Day 8 (April 25) image

Disembark and depart from the Arctic north

After breakfast, we’ll disembark Ocean Sherpa and drive you back to Longyearbyen Airport, with plenty of time to catch your flight.

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