Ski & Sail-festival through Lofoten, Vesterålen and Senja
Easter festival
We pack our skis on deck and hoist sails for a whole week with Ski & Sail festival from Svolvær to Tromsø. This will be a Ski & Sail mini-festival, where we’ll be skiing on mighty peaks with a view straight into the deep blue sea. This trip is for those who want to sail on an adventure with a whole fleet, of perhaps up to five boats. Who wants to meet new people, make new skiing friends, and for you who want to experience something unique, wild, raw and beautiful!
From Svolvær to Tromsø
We sail to the mountain, start at the beach and ski among snowy, alpine peaks from Lofoten, via Vesterålen and Senja, to the Paris of the North; Tromsø. Get ready for an incredible and spectacular trip filled with good skiing and action filled sailing! From deep fjords and narrow straits around Trollfjorden and Raftsundet in Lofoten. Via large, white mountain sides and long perfect ski slopes on Hinnøya and Grytøya in Vesterålen. To steep alpine peaks and offshore sailing around Senja. Before we finish around Kvaløya and Malangen towards Tromsø. You get to sail the most beautiful coast of Northern Norway, you get to see our local secrets – and ski along the way!
Ski & Sail festival along the world’s most beautiful coast
On this trip, we sail in a group with mostly all our boats. As always, we have a ski guide per ski group of 6 people. For the ski touring each day, we will split up on several different mountains, so we still feel in the wild. There will be skiing groups for the more experienced and for those who have not skied as much before. Once back onboard after skiing, we can share the day’s bragging about bottomless powder or perfect spring slush, with the rest of the boat teams on apré skis on the aft deck!
A normal day at Ski & Sail
We arrange all our Ski & Sail trips with a skipper and a ski guide per boat. We plan to go skiing every day, but of course according to weather and conditions. If it’s windy and snowing one day, and the mountains are not tempting, we hoist sails and leave behind some of the nautical miles we’re going to cover. If someone wants a break day during the trip, that is also completely allowed! After ski touring and summit climbs during the day, we spend the afternoon sailing to the next port or anchorage and prepare for a new peak for the next day.
With varied groups onboard
On most of our Ski & Sail trips, we sail two or more boats in tandem. Depending on the number of people registered. With several boats, we try to divide into boat teams and ski groups according to skill level, wishes and prior experience. We often also set up two different trips of different lengths per skiing day. So you can choose whether you want to go on the long or short trip that day. With open groups onboard, there will of course be a difference in skiing level inside each group, but we quickly become a good team on board and we are all flexible!
New to ski touring?
Are you curious about Ski & Sail, but haven’t been backcountry skiing much before?
Ski & Sail is generally a fairly advanced type of ski trip, but on this trip we set up a beginner’s boat. This group will do easier and less steep ski trips, but sail with the rest of the boats. This is for those of you who have done some backcountry skiing already, but are not that tough down the steepest slopes. For you who enjoy nature and being out in the mountains on skis, and want to try Ski & Sail. You must still have some ski touring experience, and bring your own ski and avalanche equipment. Ask us about availability for specific departures with a beginner’s boat!
Blog articles
Check our blog articles about Ski & Sail here.
Ski & Sail video
Here is a video clip from one of our Ski & Sail trips, this one from Finnmark. The film is produced by Albert, one of our captains.
A unique way to experience Norwegian nature. You get close to raw nature; the sea, the mountains, weather and wind, and not least the people you share the experience with. Recommended!
Heidi B, Easter Festival 2023
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome on board in Svolvær
We meet at the harbor in the centre of Svolvær at 16:00. Here we check in at our boat and get to know each other. We go through the plan for the trip, safety information, boat and equipment. Before it gets too late in the evening we cast off and sail a short distance, to where we find a suitable anchorage for the night. We prepare supper on board, but recommend that you have eaten dinner before arriving. In order to use the time to go through the boat and equipment and be ready to set sails into the fjords already this first evening.
Day 2: Ski touring in the Trollfjord/Raftsundet
After an early breakfast, we dinghy ashore in Raftsundet. Together with the guide, we evaluate the final choice of route for the day based on the weather, snow conditions and wind. We have good hiking opportunities here on both sides of Raftsundet. When we are back in the boat, we sail a little further towards the best possible starting point for next day’s summit.
Day 3-4: Top tours on the islands in Vesterålen
Hinnøya is Norway’s largest island, and we have an ocean of possible mountains to walk on here. North of Harstad, lies a few other smaller islands with good skiing, like Grytøya and Andørja. If the snow is stable and nice, the peaks here offer magical descents all the way down to the beach. After today’s summit, we come back on board, eat and relax a bit before we sail further north towards the next destination.
Day 5: Full sailing day from Vesterålen to Senja
During the week, we will most likely use a full day to really hoist our sails and experience how the forces of nature propel us forward! Often we choose a day with less optimal skiing conditions to spend our time sailing. And get a good portion of the nautical miles we need to cover during the week, done. Perhaps we get as far as 50-60 nm in one day. If we are lucky, we also have good “haill” and get fish on the hook for dinner!
Day 6-7: Skiing in the fjords at Senja
Senja is a wonderland for ski touring enthusiasts and mountain fanatics! We could spend the whole week just in the fjords here, and hopefully we will have good enough weather to be able to sail offshore on the west side of Senja on our way north. This is where we will find the spectacular mountains the island is famous for! If we have first made it all the way here, we must also make sure to pay a visit to the small place Hamn in Bergsfjord, where they both have a good restaurant for dinner on land, as well as a sauna and hot tubs for sore feet and tired legs.
Day 8: Last summit trip, and bye for now
On the last morning, we wake up in Kvaløya or Malangen, where we plan to do a small last skitour this morning, before we head to the final stop for this time; Tromsø. We will arrive in Tromsø in time for us to pack, clean and wash ourselves off the boat by 16:00 latest. Thank you for an unforgettable experience and welcome again next time!
Changes to the program
The program is an indication of what the days will look like. Though it might change according to weather and snow conditions. We start each day with a good breakfast and pack lunch before we go out ski touring. Some days we eat dinner straight after skiing. Other days we just eat a little when we get down to the boat again, and sail further before we cook a later dinner. Some days we put in time to fish, or time to look around. Should the weather be really bad for skiing in the mountains, we do a sailing day or something else fun, instead!
What is included?
- A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper and guide with local knowledge on board
- Guided backcountry skiing trips every day
- Small groups – 6-7 participants per ski guide
- All food you 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
- Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
What is not included?
- Travel to and from the start/end location
- Ski and avalanche equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)
- Personal goodies for the evening and hiking snacks for excursions on land
- Optional meals at cafes/restaurants during the trip
- Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may want to do
- Rental of equipment, transport or activities from external operators if you want to do things outside the program
- 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!)
Important info
Avreise og ankomst
This trip starts in Svolvær and ends in Tromsø.
You find more information on travel, equipment and other tips under Practical info.
Deposit and payment
You only pay a deposit (NOK 6000) upon registration, the remainder of the payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Safety and risk on board
We are all about people, and so we also take safety very seriously. On our trips we practice sail- and boat handling also for safety, and we spend time going through various situations that can arise at sea, how to handle them and how to avoid them.
On board a boat everyone must know what to do in critical situations and in the event of an emergency. Our philosophy is that partaking and participation builds safety. It is important for the safety of the whole boat that you are a participant on board, not just a passenger.
Therefore all our trips are to be considered sailing courses in addition to being great holidays and adventures: You are trained to make up the crew on board and so we build a capable team on board.
Feel free to contact us for a chat about safety and risk on our adventures.
Level of the trip
No sailing experience? No problem! Our sailing adventures welcome both novices and seasoned sailors for an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to sailing or a salty sea dog, our trips cater to all levels.
We aim to transform beginners into sailors quickly while offering experienced participants greater responsibilities and challenges. Our mainland sailing journeys involve 44-50 feet boats navigating coastal and protected waters, occasionally crossing open stretches for excitement. Route adjustments based on weather and conditions ensure a safe and adaptable voyage.
Trips are not overly strenuous; with rotating positions, participants can balance sailing and relaxation. Active engagement minimizes seasickness, and if it occurs, it passes swiftly. Weather, however, is unpredictable, with the potential for stronger winds and various conditions in northern Norway and the Arctic, making each trip a true sailing adventure. Be prepared for calm winds and rough weather—embracing the elements for an unforgettable experience.
What we expect from you
Our trips require a little effort from you who are joining – everyone on board must be ready to contribute and to give of themselves also socially; the more you open up, share and interest yourself in the others on board, the more enjoyable it gets.
When you’re sailing with us you are invited to take part in the running of the ship and all that comes with it. You will be sailing, docking, navigating, looking out for whales and icebergs, but also making food, serving others, doing dishes and helping clean the boat during the trip, and contributing in other ways when needed. On board we are all in the same boat and when all help out, the ship is most happy.
Our experience is that doing things together with others out in nature, and not least cooperating and doing activities with new people and different personalities than you might have around you normally, is what creates the best, most interesting and memorable moments and stories:)
Equipment and packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of special equipment and clothing for sailing. If you don’t have any of this, you will get very far with normal hiking/outdoor equipment. You do not need to buy a lot of new equipment to join our trips. Use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, 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 warm clothing underneath.
Some jackets may not be waterproof “enough”, or might not perform too well in salt water, so you can consider a set of oilskin for the wettest days (available for rent or purchase on board). A pair of higher rubber boots for disembarking from the dinghy is very good to have, as well as indoor shoes below deck. Out at sea and in the Arctic it can be cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. Well before departure, we will send you a detailed recommended packing list.
Read more and see our packing tips here:
PS: In a sailboat, you pack in a bag or sack, not in a rigid suitcase. 🙂
Food & cooking on board
On our trips, you will be part of the crew on board and get the chance to participate in all tasks for the operation of the boat. This includes cooking and preparing food – everyone take turns in the galley! Skippers and crew assist as much as they can along the way.
We have great menus with tasty, healthy and “boat-friendly” food, and for each trip we order provisions for all meals on board. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account as best as we can. You are also most welcome to bring any special food or drink with you. Why not bring some specialities from your country or region for the boat to enjoy?
During a weeklong trip we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we can have dinner on land. Some places we need to pre-book and we will then need to choose a menu before we arrive. More about all of this when you come on board!
Life on board & accommodation
Life on a sailboat is super social and fun, but it might feel a bit intimate at first. No worries though, that vibe usually fades after the first hour. Everyone chips in to run the boat, and we’re all part of the crew, which means quick bonding.
We’re keen to get to know you and hope you’ll connect with the rest of the crew. It takes some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but soon you’ll be focused on making new friends and enjoying raw nature experiences once sea life feels like home.
Sleeping arrangements in shared cabins with double or bunk beds can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re pretty good at figuring it out. Let us know if you have preferences. You’re on your own for land accommodations before or after the trip.
The boat provides heating and good food, but fresh water isn’t always abundant. Water conservation means not showering every day, but when near freshwater sources, we make the most of it. But nothing beats a morning sea swim for that fresh feeling.
Safety and risk on Ski & Sail trips
For ski touring on land, we keep the same high focus on safety. On the first skiing day, we go through avalanche awareness, use of our avalanche equipment and the necessary search and rescue techniques. Many factors determine the safety of a ski touring trip, where us, the human factor, is the triggering factor in most accidents in the mountains. Good planning, awareness of the weather and avalanche risk, and a coherent group are important. In addition, it is crucial that you listen to the guide and follow his instructions in the mountains.
Backcountry skiing in the mountains involves a certain amount of risk, as does sailing. However, as an operator, with our highly skilled and trained skippers and ski guides, we do everything we can to minimize the risk in a professional manner. We all benefit from that, as we have nobody to lose.
Level of our Ski & Sail trips
On all of our Ski & Sail trips you must have some previous experience with ski touring and skiing in general. You must have done some ski touring before and you need to bring your own touring equipment. Having said that, we mostly have open groups on our Ski & Sail trips, with participants at different levels. We usually sail several boats together and divide into boat teams and ski groups based on previous experience, skill level and individual expectation, as best we can.
Our various Ski & Sail concepts are on a slightly different level. The shorter trips in Lofoten and Lyngen are less advanced, while the longer departures as in Lyngen and Finnmark and the Ski & Sail expeditions on Svalbard, are more advanced.
Read more about our various Ski & Sail concepts here.
On some selected departures, we set up a specific beginner’s boat. Feel free to ask us about availability for this and which tour might suit you!
Snow conditions
We have locally known guides on board, that is experts in finding the best snow for us to ski at any condition throughout the season. What is certain about the snow conditions here in northern Norway, is that it’s usually very varied. Often with several types of snow on each single mountain, from fluffy powder or hard packed slabs to spring crust or slush. Depending on the season, how far into the fjords we sail, and of course exposition and height above sea level. We plan the skiing trips along the way based on the latest updated knowledge of the snow conditions and local forecasts.
If we are somewhere without less good snow, we sail to where the better snow is! With the sailboat, we are flexible in finding the best snow, and this can mean that we can go to places that are not on the program or that we ourselves may not have tested beforehand. Then it’s extra exciting and a true adventure for all of us!
Equipment and packing - Ski & Sail
Normal ski touring equipment is required for this trip: Skis with touring bindings and skins (alternatively split board), touring boots and poles. Ski crampons are highly recommended, and mandatory for split board, as this is always needed at some point during a week in our coastal Norwegian mountains. Furthermore standard avalanche equipment is mandatory for everyone to bring: beacon, shovel and probe (this can be rented from us if needed).
On our open Ski & Sail trips, boot crampons and ice axe (or further mountaineering equipment) is usually not needed, except on our Ski & Sail expeditions in Svalbard. More about this in the info-letters you receive after booking.
Avalanche equipment can be rented through us and ski equipment can be rented through our partners, but our best experience is that you bring your own equipment from home. Without too short transfers, flying with a ski bag these days is often as easy as with any other checked in luggage with most airlines.
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