Arctic ICE Swimming Adventure Svalbard

Svalbard

We are thrilled to announce plans for our next polar ice swimming adventure to the Far North… experience the true Arctic, the frigid waters of Longyearbyen at 78 latitude North - the last stop before the North Pole! You will have the most experienced ice swimming support and guidance with Ram Barkai, founder of the International Ice Swimming Association and his team. We offer recorded and official IISA Ice Swimming events from 250m up to 1000m, as well as introduction dips for those new to ice swimming. Join us for the ultimate Arctic Swim challenge!

  • Ice Swimming events from 200m up to 1KM
  • Return flights included to Longyearbyen.
  • Stylish and unique accommodation at Basecamp Hotel
  • Magnificent Arctic surroundings, mountains glaciers and snow.
  • Kayaking excursions near glaciers
  • Cruises and Hiking excursions in search of wildlife
  • Expert guidance and leaders
  • Full logistics backup including follow-boats, sauna tents and polar bear protection
  • Special celebratory dinner and most meals.

WELCOME to the ICE!

The International Ice Swimming Association presents this adventure with swims from 200m to 1KM+ in the waters of Ice Fjord, Longyearbyen, Svalbard located at 78 degrees North. The 9 day program is equally open for swim participants as well as friends or supporters. You will have the most experienced ice swimming support and guidance with Ram Barkai, founder of The International Ice Swimming Association and his team. Our base in the far northern settlement of Longyearbyen is at the Basecamp Longyearbyen Hotel, with its unique sealskin and driftwood decoration. Near the glaciers of Isfjorden we have time to acclimatize and then conduct our thrilling swim event, supported by follow boats, experienced leaders and a sauna shelter. We complement our exciting days on Svalbard with a excursions into the ‘Ice Fjord’, including kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing, other adventure activities and a celebratory dinner.

Your Ice Swim Adventure Leaders

Ram Barkai

Ram Barkai

Founder and Chair of the International Ice Swimming Association (“IISA”). Swimming Expedition Leader and Race Director.

Author of Fire and Ice, Ram is a veteran extreme cold water swimmer, with swims in Antarctica in 2008 (Guinness World Record Swim at 70S) and in 2014 at -1C with his South African team. Ram has initiated and overseen many Ice Swimming events and adventures. Ram has 11 Ice Miles, 5 Extreme Ice Miles, 17 Ice Km and many more…. He swam in the Arctic and Antarctica, Cape Horn, Magellan strait and Beagle channel, Northern Iceland, Scotland and Ireland, Across the Bering Strait and in Siberia mid-winter at -33c air temp. Ram featured in various Discovery, History channel, CNN, Al Jazeera and many other documentaries. Ram’s vision is to take Ice Swimming to the Winter Olympic Games.

Dr Michal Starosolski

Michal Starosolski

Expedition Doctor, Emergency Physician

Michal is a professor and Emergency Medicine Specialist, rescue diver, active member of Water Rescue Services and coordinator of Training Centers. Since 2015 Michal works with the International Ice Swimming Association in Poland, responsible for swimmer safety and rescue issues. He has been a Medical officer during the IISA World Championships, expeditions on Titicaca Lake, Baltic Sea as well as our 2022 Svalbard Ice Swimming expedition.

Sam Whelpton

Expedition head of logistics

Sam Whelpton

Sam is a veteran open water and marathon swimming. Sam has also completed various ice swims from the Arctic to Antarctica via Lesotho high mountains. Sam is an Ironman (woman), English Channel swimmer along with many other achievements.

READ THE CUSTOMER REVIEWS
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Jun 08 2022
 
Ein unvergessliches Ereignis in großartiger Natur.
May 20 2022
 
Trotz Verschiebung der Reise durch Corona wurde wir immer auf dem laufenden gehalten. Es wurde uns bezüglich der Finanzierung Sicherheit gegeben und verschiedene Optionen geboten bezüglich des Reiseantritts.
May 20 2022
 
Thank you Stewart’s for your organizing

Stewart's Take

Join us in 2024 for the next ICE swimming adventure in the High Arctic waters of Svalbard!

Overview

We are thrilled to announce plans for our next polar ice swimming adventure to the Far North… experience the true Arctic, the frigid waters of Longyearbyen at 78 latitude North - the last stop before the North Pole! You will have the most experienced ice swimming support and guidance with Ram Barkai, founder of the International Ice Swimming Association and his team. We offer recorded and official IISA Ice Swimming events from 250m up to 1000m, as well as introduction dips for those new to ice swimming. Join us for the ultimate Arctic Swim challenge!
24 August - Arrive Oslo, Norway Arrive independently to Oslo and make your way by the airport train to our centrally located hotel with views over central Oslo and within walking distance of attractions such as the Royal Palace, National Gallery and harbour. Browse the stores on nearby Karl Johan Street, or access train, bus and metro lines at Oslo Central Station, right next to the hotel. You may wish to visit one of the floating saunas located right in front of the opera house, for a first swim in Norwegian waters! Meet our leaders this afternoon for the formalities of swimmer registration, then gather this evening for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant to get to know each other and discuss our adventures ahead. (D) 25 August - Oslo / Longyearbyen We depart together to Oslo airport this morning and fly to the tiny former coal mining settlement of Longyearbyen, Svalbard. On arrival we take a short bus ride to the Basecamp Hotel, our home for the next 5 nights. This unique property is decorated in authentic trapper’s style down to the very last detail, the interiors are covered with driftwood, sealskin, maps, pictures and objects that illustrate the past and the present of life in the Arctic. The rooms are all different, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, wifi internet but no TVs! From all the rooms you have a beautiful view over the town, towards the mountains surrounding the valley of Longyeardalen. This afternoon you can explore the town of Longyearbyen at your leisure, perhaps visit its fascinating polar museum. This evening, we gather for a casual dinner at one of Longyearbyen’s local restaurants. (B.D.) 26 August - Ice Fjord Cruise - Test Swim Day & Kayaking excursions After a hearty breakfast our guide will pick us up and transfer to the harbour to embark on our two 12-passenger sightseeing boats for the day. We head out into Isfjorden so the swimming participants can make their first test swims. We cross over the fjord to a small island in front Borebukta glacier, providing both a sheltered area and majestic backdrop for our swim – it is an especially scenic location for photography! After everyone has had the chance to make their test swim and acclimatize to the polar waters, we move our boats to the nearby Svea Glacier, to explore one of Svalbard’s most spectacular natural areas using sturdy double kayaks. Half the group will go kayaking at a time while the other half enjoys a walk to explore the glacier surrounds from the land. You will receive all necessary equipment including a dry suit (you can wear normal clothes underneath). Kayaking experience is not required and your guide will brief you on how to safely use the gear and the kayaks. Being in the front of an active glacier is a breathtaking and unforgettable experience. The quiet nature of kayaking will give us an opportunity to observe this diverse ecosystem from a completely different point of view. As we paddle through the water, surrounded by icebergs, the picturesque Sveabreen is towering above us. Enjoy the close view of the glacier front and the stunning nature surrounding you. No other activity gets you as close to this majestic natural appearance. The environment around and above the glacier is diverse and beautiful. Delicate flora struggles against the wind on the peninsula next to the glacier. Birds are all around, chirping and feeding. Look out for wildlife such as walruses or seals. Further, if we are lucky, we get to see the glacier calving. After a few hours of light trekking and paddling through the bay, we head back to our boat. Here, our captain has prepared a hearty, warm lunch for us that we can enjoy on our way back to Longyearbyen. Join the group this evening for dinner at another of Longyearbyen’s local restaurants. (B,L,D) 27 August - Ice Fjord Cruise - Main Swim Day! Following breakfast, we transfer to the port again to join our expedition boats which will take us across The Ice Fjord to Borebukta Glacier for the first heats of our Arctic ICE KM Swims. We will base ourselves from an island close by the glacier. Restricted to experienced, Ice-Swimmers, our event will test the resolve and endurance of extreme brave participants - and is certain to be a thrilling spectator event for all! The swim course will be marked and recognized according to International Ice Swimming Association (IISA) ICE KM Swim rules. Each swimmer will be accompanied by a follow boat with expedition and medical staff and will be filmed and timed by expert IISA officials and doctor. Spectators will be able to observe from the boats or from ashore. On the shoreline we will have a shelter and sauna ready and heated as well as a bonfire and hot drinks. There will also be a guide present at all times for polar bear protection. After our swims we cruise back in Longyearbyen. Tonight, we celebrate over dinner at a special venue “Kuhaugen”, located just outside the main settlement of Longyearbyen, with a beautiful view of the advent valley and the opera mountain. Decorated as an “explorers club”, the interior focusses on polar expeditions of the 19th and 20th century and is the perfect surroundings for our awards evening for the brave swimmers who have completed our ICE KM swim events. (B,L,D) 28 August – Ny Ålesund We embark on full day boat trip to Ny-Ålesund, a historic former mining town and a gateway to the Arctic. This quaint settlement also served as the launchpad for renowned explorers in their race to the North Pole. Notably, Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach both the South and North Poles, utilized Ny-Ålesund as his base during his 1926 expedition to the North Pole aboard the airship Norge. We’ll sail north through Forlandssundet, passing Poolepynten, a renowned walrus habitat. If the timing aligns, we may make a brief stop to observe these remarkable creatures. After a 3-4 hour journey, we’ll arrive at Kongsfjorden. On clear days, the impressive “Tre kroner,” three nunataks protruding from the stunning Kongbreen glacier, may come into view. Kongsfjorden often features icebergs calved from the immense surrounding glaciers, creating a picturesque landscape. Upon reaching Ny-Ålesund, we’ll disembark to wander and discover this charming and historic town. Our exploration will include a visit to the mast where Roald Amundsen tethered his Airship while preparing for the North Pole expedition. You’ll also have the opportunity to stamp your passport and send postcards at the world’s northernmost post office. Following the guided tour, there will be time for souvenir shopping at the northernmost shop in the world. Before our return journey to Longyearbyen, we’ll seek out a picturesque spot to savour our lunch. Dinner this evening is on your own.  (B,L.) 29 August - Longyearbyen - Isfjord Radio Hotel The morning is at leisure - you may wish to take an optional tour with ATV/Quad bikes, or visit the local polar museum, with lunch on your own. This afternoon set off to discover a different area of Svalbard, where we can relax and enjoy the amazing Arctic nature. We transfer to the port to climb onboard Isfjord Ekspressen, cruising westwards along the fjord towards Cape Linné. Your hosts will be ready to welcome you upon your arrival at the remote Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel. Many people have the ‘Big Five’ of Svalbard on their bucket list, and Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel is the perfect location to come across several of the animal species on this list. Keep your eyes open for walrus, polar bear, seal, arctic fox and the curious Svalbard reindeer. You will be taken on a station walk upon arrival to learn more about the fascinating history of this unique destination. A 4-course dinner including wine package is served together in the hotel dining room. Spend the last hours of the day in the warm sauna situated on the sea cliff and enjoy a view that makes you forget about time and place. Who knows what kind of wildlife will swim by the sauna tonight? (B,D) 30 August - Isfjord Radio Hotel After a good night’s sleep, you will wake up to a view you will remember forever. Enjoy your morning coffee or tea with a panoramic view of Cape Linné bird sanctuary. Today join our guide for a hike towards a walrus colony, including expedition lunch along a track past the old radio poles of the station. The beautiful surrounding hills of the Griegfjellet are located beside is as we walk along the coastline, admiring the Arctic flora and fauna. At Båtodden, there is a local walrus colony, and if we are lucky, we get the opportunity to study these fascinating animals both on land and in the sea. It is a golden rule that we should never disturb wildlife on Svalbard, but tons of walruses are easy to observe – even at a safe distance. Near Båtodden is a small, old hunting lodge. Here we eat lunch and learn more about the hard hunting life in the north. On the way to and from Båtodden we see whale bones and driftwood that the sea has brought with it, and delicate tundra with treasures such as tiny flowers and well-hidden bird nests. On our return this afternoon, gather around a bonfire for champagne and refreshments. We also have time to relax or go for another Arctic swim by the sauna. A 4-couse dinner with wine is again served this evening. (B,L,D) 31 August - Isfjord Radio Hotel - Longyearbyen After Breakfast we board the Isfjord Express boat and transfer back to Longyearbyen Basecamp. This afternoon we gather for an easy Mountain Hike with expedition lunch included towards the summit of Blomsterdalshøgda at 320 meters above sea level. In summer, its slopes are covered with many of Svalbard’s plants and flowers. We’re rewarded with a great view of the local area and Adventfjorden. Mine #3 can be seen from the summit, and some remains of the coal mining period. The days of coal mining are over, and today the entrance to The Global Seed Vault is at the mountain side (it is not permitted to go inside the seed vault). Carved deep into the permafrost, the Seed Vault preserves an incredible array of the world’s species of plants. Your guide will share some insight about the Global Seed Vault and Svalbard’s important place in the world of science and conservation. This evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at one of Longyearbyen’s restaurants.  (B,L,D) 01 September - Longyearbyen – Fly to Oslo Early morning transfer to the airport for our departure flight back to Oslo. Arrangements end with your arrival to Oslo airport, however we can arrange additional accommodation on request. (B.) Ice Swimmer Notes The adventure has 20 places in total. Swimmers and support. We will give priority to swimmers as it is an Ice Swimming expedition. We will take swimmers on first come first serve basis, subject to deposit payment.
  • 1km Arctic Swimmers must have done at least one Ice KM under 25 minutes in the past 12 months.
  • Each swimmer must have a completed and valid IISA Medical. The medical must be completed not earlier than 6 months prior to departure.
  • Each swimmer must have his/her medical insurance
  • Swimmer will be obliged to wear a tow float during each swim.
  • The 1km event will be held with 4 swimmers in a heat.
  • Swim Entries must be done via IISA Website – Arctic Ice Swimming Adventure
  • Ice Mile requests maybe considered by Ram Barkai on a case by case basis if water temperature is above 3C.
  • Please make sure you always have your swim gear and a towel in case we come across an irresistible ice dip location.

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LAND PROGRAM: BASECAMP HOTEL SVALBARD

Basecamp Hotel

This unique hotel in Longyearbyen is decorated in authentic trapper's style down to the last detail, with service on a personal level. From the glass-roofed loft look up to a sky filled with northern lights or the midnight sun. The hotel is also a basecamp for further adventures: excursions available to other lodges as well as dog sledding, glacier walks and hikes and cruises in Isfjorden.

The interior of Basecamp Hotel is covered with driftwood, sealskin, maps, pictures and objects that illustrate the past and the present of life in the Arctic. The rooms are all different, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms and no TVs. Breakfast and wifi are included. From Longyearbyen we take you to other remote outposts in the wilderness.

Basecamp Hotel has 16 rooms and can accommodate more than 40 people. Each room is individually decorated in traditional trapper style with driftwood, sealskin and slate. No two rooms are alike. In all rooms there are comfortable beds and private bathrooms with showers. Double rooms come with either two single beds or one double bed. In triple rooms there are bunk beds, in real trapper’s style. Double beds are by request only. Two of the rooms in Basecamp Hotel are suites, with separate bedrooms, lounge, and bathroom. From all the rooms you have a beautiful view over the town, towards the mountains surrounding the valley of Longyeardalen.

For full information about Basecamp Hotel click here:


Included
  • Group airfares Oslo / Longyearbyen / Olso in Go Plus class with extra baggage allowance
  • Accommodation at hotels/lodges as indicated in the itinerary (or similar)
  • Meals as indicated Breakfast = B / lunch = L / dinner = D
  • Transfers in Longyearbyen to/from events - and from flights as indicated in the itinerary
  • ICE Swimming expedition guides from International Ice Swimming Association
  • Marked course swim event in Isfjorden with two open follow boats. Ashore will be a sauna and shelter tent.
  • Polar bear protection guides to follow the event
  • Hot and cold drinks, snacks during the swim event
  • Excursions as indicated in the itinerary
Excluded
  • Single hotel supplement (if required or necessary)
  • Arrival transfers in Oslo (train tickets may be purchased individually on site)
  • Airfares, land arrangements or meals not otherwise mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Passport and visa expenses.
  • Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
  • Excess baggage charges (flight tickets do include 2 x 23kg luggage).
  • All items of a personal nature such as additional purchases in the hotel, laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
Bookings All booking enquiries and payments are made to Expeditions Online via their website, by phone or email. However, any specific swimming-related questions are to be directed to the International Ice Swimming Association. Payments To confirm your place, reservations require a preliminary $/€ 1000 per person deposit (or equivalent currency) at the time you receive a booking confirmation from Expeditions Online. This initial deposit will remain fully refundable until we confirm the final dates and price. Following that time the normal cancellation conditions apply. A payment link will be sent to you and this may be paid by major credit card. Bookings within 90 days of departure require full payment. Balances are due 90 days prior to departure and can be paid by bank transfer. Balance payments may be made by credit card subject to a 2% surcharge. Cancellations All requests for cancellation must be received in writing to Expeditions Online. Cancellations received 90 days or more prior to departure = US$750. Cancellations received 90-60 days prior to departure = US$1500. If cancellation occurs within 60 days prior to departure: 50% of the total price. If cancellation occurs within 30 days prior to departure: no refund. If full payment has not yet been received, the full penalty will still apply and any unpaid balance is due immediately. Insurance Adequate trip cancellation insurance is required for this expedition, including emergency medical evacuation and Covid-19 coverage.
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