The world's most beautiful ski and sail adventure
Experience four unforgettable days of summit to sea ski-touring along the Atlantic coast between Lofoten and Tromsø. Sailing aboard the fantastic M/S Quest expedition ship brings you to small places that larger boats can't access. Several of the destinations have either no or limited accommodation or skiing infrastructure, which means that there is a big chance to make the first tracks and be alone in the mountains. With only 54 passengers, there's a relaxing social atmosphere onboard. Suitable for all abilities, beginners to experienced skiers. This is a fantastic way to experience Northern Norway's spectacular scenery, outstanding skiing and, with luck, the magical Northern Lights.
M/S Quest is a floating ski lodge, a compact, high standard and comfortable expedition ship, used exclusively for only 54 guests along with guides and crew from Norwegian Adventure Company. It was previously based in Greenland for polar expeditions, hence a perfectly suited ship for a cruise experience in Northern Norway.
The ship is 50 metres long and 11 metres wide. There are practical outdoor areas, a panoramic lounge on the upper deck with a bar, a nice restaurant and modern, comfy cabins. It is complemented by 4-6 tenders (small boats) that take you to and from the land adventures.
It has 26 good sized cabins, all exterior with sea views and private bathroom facilities with a shower / toilet.
As an adventure company, it’s natural that Norwegian Adventure Company also explores innovative food experiences, rooted in local culture, as part of the adventure concept. The gastro concept, Arctic Adventure Cuisine, is created by Bocuse d’Or chef Gunnar Hvarnes, using the best, world class, local produce from each region. Traditionally associated with seafood, the arctic cuisine is now undergoing a revolution. Regional land-based farmers are beginning to offer an array of specialties using vegetable, herb and dairy products, as well as quality meats such as lamb and reindeer. When it comes to the seafood, fishermen and modern sea-farmers are searching for new, rare raw materials or putting a different slant on traditional and well-loved foods. Slow growth and a harsh, cold climate affect the animals, organisms and plants that live here, resulting in flavours that are both more distinctive and purer at the same time.
The goal is to put Northern Norway on the culinary map on par with Piedmont, Provence and Tuscany. There is a hidden treasure that few Norwegian and foreign tourists know about – the menu; devised from highest quality local ingredients by some of the world's best chefs, has a distinctive seasonal quality that showcases the best that Arctic nature can offer.
In every aspect the Arctic Haute Route is a very unique form of Arctic alpine holiday in the north. To sail in, hike to the summit and ski down to the sea is an unbeatable combination. Imagine how incredible it is to sail into the fjords and to lie at anchor surrounded by the landscape of the next day's tour. Get up at sunrise and enjoy the first coffee out on the deck. Watch a couple of small fishing boats slowly pass by on their way to the fishing grounds, prepare for the weather and be on your way.
The ski-tours start and return to the shoreline. You will ski touring in small groups with 1 certified guide per 6 guests. This is suitable for skiers from all levels, from beginners to highly experienced skiers. You’re in safe hands with the certified guides who are knowledgeable local area experts and you’ll certainly learn some new tricks.
Every afternoon you will enjoy local snacks from the region for après-ski, followed by dinner and local dining experiences from Arctic Adventure Cuisine. During afternoons and evenings, light snow falls and sunsets are best experienced with others on the deck, where you feel the wind, weather and the sheer joy of being on tour. With luck you may see the spectacular Northern Lights dance across the night sky.
Being on an Arctic Haute Route voyage is much more than a raw nature experience with amazing ski-touring. The voyage along the Norwegian coast, gives you the chance to see some of the most beautiful places in the north. You will experience the pristine nature in Lofoten, Andørja, Senja, Kvaløya and Tromsø. In addition, there is a great social environment and plenty of ‘hygge’ (playful happiness) where you can share skiing adventures, fun experiences and your passion for an active lifestyle with other like-minded people. On a small, intimate ship you quickly get to know the others in the group, and after a day or two - one big happy family!
The Norwegian Adventure Company team are always available for any questions you may have along the way, and the ship's crew are attentive and helpful.
Limited Availability
There is limited availability on the March sailings. Send us an email [email protected] and we will help you arrange this unforgettable experience. If you prefer a summer adventure or a private charter please let us know and we'll send you a proposal.
Ski and Sail - Arctic Haute Route
19 - 22 Mar 2020 - from 19 900 NOK per person
Lofoten → Andørja → Kvaløya → Tromsø (northbound, 4 days)
22 - 25 Mar 2020 - from 19 900 NOK per person
Tromsø → Senja → Andørja → Lofoten (southbound, 4 days)
Price includes:
- Accommodation three nights aboard MS Quest with private facilities
- Tailor-made tours (three full days of summit ski trips in Lofoten, Andørja/Senja and Kvaløya)
- Certified guides (1 guide for every 6 guests)
- Expedition and sailing along the Atlantic coast
- All meals from (three breakfasts, three packed lunches, three après-ski snacks, three dinners (two main courses every day (fish / meat), dessert)
- Free coffee / tea / fruit
- Transport to the tour by tender and by bus to the airport
- Hosted by Norwegian Adventure Company
- After-ski and social environment
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