Antarctic snow expedition
Ski or splitboard adventure in Antarctica from January 05 - 18, 2027
The fascination of ski touring in Antarctica lies in a unique combination of untouched wilderness, spectacular landscapes and a feeling of true pioneering adventure. When I was able to make my first ski turns in the powder snow on the 7th continent in January 2024, it was clear to me that this would not remain a one-off experience. No sooner said than done, and I am looking forward to accompanying you on a fascinating journey from January 5 to 18, 2027.
What are the reasons to come along?
1. completely new territory:
Antarctica is one of the last large, largely undeveloped ski touring areas on earth. No lifts, no infrastructure, no crowds - instead complete silence, solitude and the feeling of being on another planet.
The best thing is that we won't be on a large ship with up to 30 or more like-minded people, but will carry out this trip with a maximum of 12 people according to the motto "small and fine".
2. ski tours with an ocean view:
From the summit, the view is not of a valley, but of a surreal white world of icebergs, glacier tongues and the ocean. The descent often leads right down to the water's edge - with penguins as occasional spectators.
3. encounters with nature in its purest form:
Penguin colonies, seals, whales and seabirds - the wildlife of the Antarctic is just as fascinating as the landscape. Ski tours here become a holistic nature experience.
4. adventure character:
Ski touring in Antarctica is logistically demanding and requires experience. The tours take place almost exclusively on glaciers, often roped up, with changing snow conditions. It is both an expedition and a sport.
5. pushing boundaries - in your head and on skis:
Anyone who tours the Antarctic is pushing the outer limits of what is possible on skis - mentally and physically. It's a journey to yourself and to the essence of ski mountaineering. Yes, social detox!
With the Elsi, a specially built schooner for expeditions to the most remote and inhospitable regions of the world, we embark on an extraordinary SNOW journey through the wilderness of the Antarctic. The Elsi is small enough to feel like a real expedition ship, but large enough to reach remote destinations safely.
The Antarctic Peninsula is our playground for 11 days. Depending on the weather and conditions, we explore this unique region by ski or splitboard. We climb new destinations every day - past penguin colonies, over glaciers and up to jagged mountain peaks. Or we paddle through ice-filled bays with views of mighty glacier fronts.
Good to know:
We fly from Punta Arenas via the notorious Drake Passage, where the waves can be up to 20 meters high, thus gaining 4 days more time for touring and eliminating the risk of potential seasickness.
Thanks to the variety of activities on board the Elsi, this adventure is also ideal for accompanying family members or friends who don't want to ski or splitboard. Whether ski touring, sea kayaking, hiking or Zodiac excursions - there is something for everyone.
All in all, ski or splitboard touring in Antarctica is not just a sport - it's a journey of a lifetime.
Antarctic skiing
"Travel makes you humble. One realizes what a small place one occupies in the world." - Gustave Flaubert
Highlight
Experience Antarctica on board our expedition ship, which focuses on outdoor adventures: Ski touring or splitboarding, kayaking and hiking along the Antarctic Peninsula. Ski or splitboard on glaciers and through rugged mountains, visit huge penguin colonies and enjoy breathtaking views of a sea of icebergs as you descend from remote peaks - an experience of a lifetime!
The Elsi is 38 meters long and 7 meters wide. The ship was built in 1986 at a German shipyard as a training ship for expeditions and extensively renovated in 2013. It has been sailing the Arctic and Antarctic as an expedition sailing ship since 2022 - robust, comfortable and ideal for remote destinations.
There are two cabin categories:
- 3 double cabins with bunk beds
- 3 triple cabins
There are three bathrooms on board with shower, washbasin and WC. The spacious dining area offers plenty of comfort and our chef provides us with nutritious, delicious meals. On the large upper deck you can stow your equipment or relax and enjoy the scenery. Those who like it warm can retreat to the well-heated helmstand.
- Scheduled flight Santiago -Punta Arenas - Santiago in Economy Class
- 2 nights in Buenos Aires, incl. breakfast
- Charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island (Antarctica)
- 1 night in Punta Arenas, incl. breakfast Breakfast and transfers
- 10 nights on board the Elsi
- All meals on board the Elsi
- All shore excursions and Zodiac excursions
- Support from experienced ski and kayak guides
- Swiss support on board
- Use of kayaks and equipment
- All port and official taxes
Services not included:
- International flights to/from Santiago
- Transfers in Buenos Aires
- Single room supplements in Buenos Aires
- Visas, vaccinations, departure taxes
- Hotels and meals outside the program
- Optional excursions outside the program, e.g. in Santiago de Chile or Punta Arenas
- Laundry, personal clothing, medical expenses
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (cash, telephone, e-mail, etc.) 5 - Emergency evacuation - Travel insurance - Travel insurance - Travel insurance - Personal expenses (cash, telephone, e-mail, etc.))
- Emergency evacuation costs
January 05 - 17, 2027
Price per person:
CHF 18'995.-(in the triple cabin)
CHF 19'995.-(in the double cabin)
In the Antarctic summer, the weather is usually stable with sunshine and light winds, but can also be cloudy or stormy. Temperatures are usually between -10°C and +5°C.
The trip is suitable for skiers or splitboarders, kayakers - but also for fellow travelers without sporting ambitions. Perfect for couples or families with different interests.
- Ski tours: Almost exclusively on glaciers, peaks up to 1,500?m. Only for experienced ski tourers. Several groups depending on level, 1 guide per 6 guests. Ascents often roped up. Conditions range from powder snow to firn.
- Sea kayaking: encounters with whales, penguins, seals and icebergs - an intense nature experience.
- Zodiac tours: For less active guests - exploring penguin colonies, historical sites and glacier fronts up close from the water.
What weather can you expect?
Summer normally brings higher air pressure and stable weather, but you should be prepared for everything from calm and sunny days to snowstorms and lots of snow. The average temperature in January is 0 °C.
Are there communication options on board the boat?
There is satellite communication on board via satellite phones and an on-board satellite email service.
What is skiing like in Antarctica?
Normally the skiing conditions are very good. The conditions can vary a lot, we can ski powder snow, firn snow and everything in between, but thanks to the many different aspects and terrains we almost always find great skiing conditions.
Do we ski really steep slopes?
Generally not, Antarctica is incredibly glaciated. Anything that is really steep is usually very rugged. We are looking for fun skiing or splitboarding; at an angle of 28 to 40 degrees.
Can I charge my electronic devices on board the boat?
Yes, the boat has several 220-volt sockets. There are numerous ways to charge your electronic devices
Food
Meals are plentiful and are prepared using local Argentinian produce and ingredients as much as possible. We are happy to cater for vegetarians and other special dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking. If you have to follow a special diet, we recommend that you bring some of your own substitutes.
Is ski and avalanche equipment provided?
No, all guests must bring their own ski, or splitboard and avalanche equipment. Guests should be familiar with their avalanche equipment and have already used their ski or splitboard equipment before the start of the trip.
