«Imagine being on a tour for 7 days without mobile coverage. Who would not want that?”
"Going on an expedition on Svalbard is something I can highly recommend. The vast wilderness and majestic landscapes are truly breathtaking, and beg to be experienced" says Per Brochmann, CEO of Hurtigruten Svalbard.
As director of a tour operator, it is important to know the products, guests, and guides. Brochmann is passionate about nature experiences and expeditions, and in May 2021 he went on our ski expedition to Ny-Ålesund.
Facts about the tour
The expedition to Ny-Ålesund is a ski trip that has it all: breathtaking mountain landscapes, glacier fronts, interesting wildlife, and a touch of history. In the course of seven days, you walk through varied terrain in the middle of Svalbard's unique wilderness. Since the midnight sun shines around the clock, there is no need to rush through the day. We take even the longest stretches at a comfortable pace. The route goes over the massive glacier sections towards Kongsvegen, with a new campsite every night. On the last day of skiing, you arrive at the fantastic Kongsfjorden. Here a boat is waiting to transport the participants to Ny-Ålesund, and back to Longyearbyen the following day.
Preparations
To enjoy such an expedition to the fullest, it is important to be well prepared. Being physically active for several days in a row is demanding, and requires a good physique. About 6 months before the trip, Brochmann went out pulling car tyres 2-3 times a week, in addition to strength training to strengthen the core muscles.
“Exercising with tyres is something I definitely recommend”, Brochmann explains. When pulling tyres, you use the same muscles as when skiing with a pulk. It is also a fun form of exercise that easily can be carried out both on regular roads and in rougher terrain.
Polar bear guard under the midnight sun
“The planning and safety were very well taken care of by our two skilled guides Kristin and Sigurd”, Brochmann continues. Thorough planning and strict safety measures are particularly important since most of the trip takes place on glaciers. The fact that we also cross through the land of polar bears requires extra safety measures. Everyone must take their turn on polar bear watch during the nights. “Being on polar bear watch may sound intimidating, but it is a wonderful experience. It is bright all night, it is completely quiet, and you get a unique moment of privacy in the wonderful Arctic landscape. It is easy to let your mind wander, without having to think about everyday tasks”.
«Imagine being on a tour for 7 days without mobile coverage. Who would not want that?”
The group travelled through indescribable landscapes, one of which is the beautiful Trollheimen. This is an impressive area between Isfjorden and Kongsfjorden, far from civilization and everyday life. The area is really off the beaten track, where the chance of encountering snowmobiles is microscopic. “Here we really got the chance to enjoy the unique tranquility that you only find in the High Arctic. And imagine being on a tour for 7 days without mobile coverage. Who would not want that?"
Join us on a ski expedition to Ny-Ålesund in 2022!
Are you tempted to experience this Svalbard adventure? We still have some spots left on the ski expedition to Ny-Ålesund in May 2022. You can read more about the trip here. Our local Svalbard experts are also available to assist you with any questions you may have. Do not hesitate to contact us by email.
Facts
Number of days
8 days
Age limit
18 years
Difficulty
4 - Above average physical fitness
