Join me.
Become an adventurer in 2025.
May 2025
Discover the undiscovered.
Svalbard is where my journey began, and it’s where yours could too!
Join a group of soon-to-be explorers for a taste of arctic adventure on skis.
You'll become part of an expedition team across an icy tundra, led by myself and other experienced explorers.
The only requirement is that you're fit and healthy, and undertake some light pre-expedition training. But there's no need to worry - it's a light fitness programme and we'll support you every step of the way.
Though you'll always be on skis, you don't need to have any previous ski experience.
What's the plan?
We'll fly into Longyearbyen and take boats across Isfjorden.
The boats take us as far as they can, at which point they will leave us on the sea ice and our expedition begins.
We ski across the rest of the fjord on the sea ice and once we reach land, we start skiing up one of the many glaciers in the area.
Over the following days we'll ski among glaciers and mountain ranges that can be seen protruding out of the glaciers. We may even summit some mountains. Camps will be chosen based on weather, progress, and the needs of our expedition team.
As the days go on, you'll learn how to look after yourself in the pristine Arctic wilderness, get comfortable on skis and with winter camping, and ultimately fall in love with this fragile world in a way you never thought possible.
Supplies...
We will supply sleds, food, team equipment etc. Personal kit can be borrowed or hired at an additional cost (like skis, boots, sleeping bags and down jackets).
During the trip, my co-lead and I will manage daily routines to ensure that everyone gets into the necessary expedition rhythm. When this is established, everyone will know what to do and how we can help each other.
You'll have a lot of time to learn new tricks (or sharpen up old ones) from your guides, who have extensive experience guiding successful trips in the high Arctic and Antarctica.
Pricing
Price is 45.800 NOK. (NB: This does not include flights to Longyearbyen nor personal kit)
The deposit to secure your place is 15.000 NOK and the rest has to be paid in late March.
FAQ
How do we travel?
We cross-country ski, pulling sleds. You do not need to have skied before: we'll teach you to become ski-proficient.
How long do we ski for?
This will vary day-to-day. Sometimes, as a team, we'll choose to complete longer days, and sometimes shorter ones.
Is food and accommodation included?
All food is included except lunch and dinner on day 2 in Longyearbyen. Accommodation is included (most of the time we will be in tents apart from when at the Longyearbyen guesthouse).
How fit do I need to be?
You need to have a reasonable level of fitness. We are more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have, but if you are considering this expedition you are probably already the right candidate! Cross country skiing is a very low impact activity and most find it even easier than walking for many hours a day!
Where do we fly in to?
Longyearbyen in Svalbard.
Are flights included?
No, flights are not included but can be found at a very reasonable price.
Will there be polar bears?
Svalbard is home to many polar bears. We'll have the correct safety equipment and will follow professional procedures in the unlikely event that we encounter one nearby.
How cold will it be?
Temperatures are often around -5°c in the daytime and a bit lower at night, but high on the plateau we can also experience -20°c. We are always careful about putting up camp because even at this time of the year, Svalbard weather can change very fast.
What equipment do I need to bring?
There is a full kit list available on request. Extra equipment is available to hire.
Do I need any previous experience?
No, but a keen and enthusiastic frame of mind may come in handy! We will make you an Arctic ninja in no time!
How much is it?
45.800 NOK. The deposit is 15.000 NOK and the rest has to be paid by late March. This includes almost everything, excluding only flights, insurance and a few personal items.
How do we get to the start point?
We travel by boat from Longyearbyen.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, there are various companies that supply this like BMC or Dogtag. Ask for more details if unsure!
I’m in! How do I secure my spot on the team?!
Get in touch at hello@lucyshepherd.net to secure your spot.