Your gateway into the Arctic’s raw frontier
Embark on a one-of-a-kind Arctic adventure aboard Ocean Sherpa, a 113-foot expedition sailing yacht designed for high-latitude exploration. Departing from Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town, you’ll sail into remote Svalbard fjords, skin across silent, snow-covered slopes, and carve fresh lines above icy waters. Guided by IFMGA-certified experts, this journey offers a rare blend of sailing, ski touring and perhaps some Arctic wildlife encounters like walruses basking on ice or polar bears in the distance. Life aboard the ship combines rugged exploration with understated comfort, letting you immerse fully in the rhythm of the Arctic.
Trip Overview
Day 1: Arrive in Longyearbyen and board Ocean Sherpa
Arrive in Longyearbyen and settle in at Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg, a cosy former miners’ barracks. Later, head to the harbour to board Ocean Sherpa, meet the crew, and enjoy a welcome dinner as the ship sails into Isfjorden under the Arctic sky.
Day 2: Ski the peaks of Isfjorden
Begin your first ski tour among Isfjorden’s snow-capped mountains. Ascend at your own pace, descend along pristine slopes, and return to the ship to sail toward St. John’s Fjord.
Day 3: Explore St. John’s Fjord
Ski through Oscar II Land’s dramatic terrain of glaciers and peaks, carving fresh lines in a landscape largely untouched by humans.
Day 4: Glacier runs in Krossfjorden
Discover Krossfjorden’s tidewater glaciers and historic whaling stations. Expect long, rewarding descents with awe-inspiring views across icy fjords.
Day 5: Adventure on Prins Karls Forland
Sail to this narrow island, home to harbour seals and walruses. Ski glaciers and summit icy peaks with panoramic Arctic Ocean vistas before returning to the ship.
Day 6: Ski near Barentsburg
Return to land for a day of ski touring above the Russian mining town of Barentsburg. Explore its unique Arctic culture and enjoy a visit to The Red Bear Bar and Brewery before boarding the ship.
Day 7: Final runs and farewell dinner
Spend the day on fresh slopes around Isfjorden. In the evening, celebrate your Arctic adventure with a farewell dinner aboard Ocean Sherpa.
Day 8: Disembark and depart
After breakfast, disembark in Longyearbyen and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.