Spending a week sailing and ski touring through Lofoten sounds like a dream — and it kind of is. But it’s also a rugged, mixed-bag adventure with quite a bit of logistics, unpredictable weather, and the potential to share a bed with a stranger. Here’s my honest take after 7 days on board with SeilNorge.
đź“Ś Quick Trip Facts
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| When to Go | March–April (daylight returns, better snow) |
| Duration | 7 nights / 6 ski days |
| Difficulty | Intermediate – Ski touring experience needed/recommended |
| Trip Type | Sailboat-based ski touring |
| Guide Required? | Yes – avalanche terrain and remote areas |
| Price | ~EUR 3,500+ |
| Access | Fly to Bodø → ferry or flight to Svolvær → taxi to harbor |
| Best For | Adventurous skiers, international groups, those okay with shared living |
| Language | Mostly foreigners — check that other guests speak English before booking |
🛬 Getting There
Getting to Svolvær in winter isn’t exactly plug-and-play. You’ve got two main options:
- Via Bodø: Flights to Bodø are frequent, and the airport is just 10 minutes from the city. From there, one ferry per day to Svolvær — if you’re not driving.
- Via Narvik: Bus to Svolvær is possible but only runs once per day.
If you’re flying with an avalanche airbag, it’s no problem in Norway — just double-check IATA rules and inform Widerøe in advance (SAS doesn’t require notice). I traveled with a Douchebag ski bag and a 132L North Face duffel — you’ll probably need two checked bags too.
Flights out of Svolvær are limited — book early or risk an extra night in Bodø (like I did).
🛥️ Life on the Boat
Sailing sounds romantic, but here’s what to expect:
- Shared beds: Yes, you might have to share a bed. Risky if you’re not traveling with someone.
- Limited privacy: No showers, and moisture collects inside the boat. You’ll live close.
- Cooking & chores: You’re part of the crew — expect to take turns cooking, cleaning, and washing dishes.
- Group size: Can be large (two boats), and skier skill levels vary a lot.
- Language: Most of the crew and passengers are international. If you’re traveling solo, check with SeilNorge that others speak English.
One alternative upgrade is to rent a cook for the week — same cost as an extra passenger so it’s not cheap.
🎿 The Skiing
This isn’t a trip for peak baggers or those looking to maximize vertical. You’ll likely:
- Stick to familiar or easy-to-reach zones (limited radius due to the sailboat)
- Encounter guides unfamiliar with the local terrain
- Have variable conditions: One of our days had great views but awful snow. Weather was a big factor every day.
It’s technically possible to reach more remote zones, but that depends heavily on group size, guide quality, and weather.
🔥 Highlights & Tips
- Sauna stop at Trollfjord: Takes about an hour to heat, but worth it.
- Fubuki boots: Surprisingly useful when stepping on/off the jetty.
- Sunglasses: Bring them — even on overcast days, the reflection off the snow is strong.
- Bring extra snacks: Meals are provided, but ski touring calories are real.
Wildlife sightings included eagles and even a whale on one of the final days — huge morale boost.
đź’¬ Final Thoughts
This was less about skiing and more about the adventure. If you’re okay with group dynamics, unpredictable weather, and living simply — it can be a magical experience. But if your main goal is skiing as much quality terrain as possible, this trip may not be the most efficient or cost-effective way to do it.
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