Sail and Ski the Lofoten Islands
Sail through steep fjords and soak up the sensational views as you ski from summit to sea
Sail and ski the spectacular fjords from your luxurious oak charter ship. The newly refurbished and renovated HMS Gåssten – a Swedish minesweeper in a previous life – is best suited for the discerning, adventurous skier. Ski touring around the spectacular Northern Alps in the Lofoten area of Norway this is a bucket-list trip for keen backcountry skiers. Spend your evenings relaxing on the deck, dine on freshly caught crab, cod, and lobster and you may even get a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
As mentioned on In The Snow’s “Blow the Bonus” feature with Mabey Ski.
Spend your days ski touring the rugged and beautiful mountain faces along Western Norway. Ski some of the most highly regarded routes on earth, where you can ski summit to sea all the way down to your impressive 24m ship. After a full day on the mountain, the evening is yours to relax or explore further afield by RIB. Indulge in freshly-caught seafood, prepared by your private on-board chef. A truly unique adventure, and brand new for 2022.
Flying into Tromso you will then be collected and driven to the boat's mooring near to the stunning, off-the-beaten-path coastal town of Lofoten, surrounded by towering peaks and twinkling fjords systems.
You should have a good level of fitness and preferably some ski touring experience, although we can tailor this trip for non-ski tourers or even arrange ski touring tuition. For those ready for the full backcountry experience, you should expect to spend 5-9 hours per day going uphill and skiing back down. The terrain will be chosen according to your group's ability and preferences, and there is something for everyone – from open mellow bowls to steep, challenging couloirs.
This trip takes place over five exclusive weeks in March and April, when the frozen shoreline has metled, the daylight hours are longer and the snow conditions at their optimum.
Days 1-2
On arrival to the majestic HMS Gåssten, the friendly crew welcomes you with champagne and canapés. You make yourself at home before heading off on your first sail towards Lofoten where you meet your guides and discuss a plan for the week over a locally inspired dinner.
The excitement really kicks in the next morning as you fuel-up on a hearty breakfast, taking in the beautiful scenery and stillness that surrounds you. It’s time to gear up and make your way down to the rib. Your adrenaline is pumping as you cruise over to the shoreline, cool air blowing past your face and skis at the ready.
As soon as your group is ready, your guide takes you a little further afield to ski some of Scandinavia’s best off-piste terrain and assess the group’s ability, before making a game plan for the days ahead. You brush up on your touring technique and practice avalanche rescue and safety techniques. The views are out of this world, and quite literally take your breath away.
You make your way back to the boat where tea is served alongside freshly baked breads and cakes. Some members of your group opt for a nap, whilst others unwind in the sauna. There’s no chance of going hungry on-board as canapés, cocktails and champagne are served, followed by a sumptuous four-course dinner.
DAYs 3-5
Spend the next few days touring neighbouring mountains such as Blatet, where you can enjoy one of the best summit views in Norway. After a long, but incredibly scenic ascent, you will enjoy the fruits of your labour, skiing 1200 vertical meters back down to the sea and ready for a well-deserved 4-course meal and an evening of stargazing.
If your legs and lungs are feeling up to the challenge, we recommend tackling some of the towering couloirs in the region. You’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable outdoor movie night by the shoreline accompanied by reindeer fondue and local specialty, Aquavit, thrown in for good measure – you deserve it.
Opt for a rest day and spend the morning fishing, taking in your stunning surroundings. Your chef will prepare an epic seafood spread and cook up any fish caught earlier that day. Dine on the deck or take the rib out and have a picnic on a private beach.
Days 6-7
With a couple of summits under your belt already, you will be grateful for the delectable and sizeable breakfasts, either local Norwegian or full-cooked – ideal for those big days on the mountain.
Spend your final day skiing one of the top 5 ski routes in Norway, surrounded by stunning views from summit to sea.
Finish the day in the floating sauna before a locally inspired BBQ is served on the deck. Lay back under a cosy blanket, keeping an eye out for any shooting stars or even the Northern Lights. Once the morning arrives it’s time to sail back to port, where you’ll begin your journey home with sore legs and memories to last a lifetime.
PRICING
Starting at NOK98,000 per night for a fully guided, private charter up to 6 guests
Included for this price:
- Exclusive charter onboard the HMS Gåssten
- 4 cabins with dedicated shower rooms
- Private IFMGA ski guiding (1 guide for 6 guests / 2 guides for 7-9 guests)
- Ski touring instruction and avalanche training
- Transport to and from the mountains by rib
- Full crew with private chef (3 or 4 depending on charter size)
- All meals, afternoon tea and canapés (plus picnics off the boat)
- Drinks with meals, including high-quality house wine and local beers
- Use of all paddleboards x 2 on the boat (more can be requested)
- Use of all fishing equipment / crab pots etc.
- Excursions to Viking Hut, private beach, movie under the stars
- Fuel and mooring fees
- Pick up from Svolvaer Airport on arrival
The following are not included in this price:
- Flights to/from Tromso
- Ski and equipment rentals
- Alcoholic beverages outside meals
- Crew gratuities
- Additional meals or spa visits onshore
As this is a private charter, we can customise this experience to suit your requirements, ski ability and interests. Whether your group is made up of mixed skiers (some non-ski tourers), or you’re looking to experience local culture and organise a movie night on the deck of the ship, we can get creative to ensure we design your ideal ski adventure.
Make it yours
As with all of our adventures, we can customise this experience to fit your vision of a dream trip. Whether you’re looking to organise a corporate retreat, ski specific peaks or spend more days on shore, we love getting creative so just let us know and we’ll make it happen.
