A SKITOURING TRIP BY SAILBOAT

A Ski Mountaineering Trip by Sailboat: Guided by the Wind and Weather

Norway // Sunnmøre Alps // April 2023

Norway has always been a dream destination for me, so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take a Sail & Ski trip with Explore 62° North. Accompanied by friends and the talented photographer Nils Ohlendorf, our journey through the Sunnmøre Alps promised a different and more sustainable skiing experience. However, predicting the weather for a sailing and skiing trip six months in advance is impossible, especially considering current climate trends. Winters are changing, leading me to ask several questions: Will there still be snow in April? Or will we have to carry our skis most of the time? Will we be lucky and have optimal conditions, maybe even making turns in fresh snow? Will the sea be stormy and rough or calm and sunny? The unpredictability of the weather has always been something to worry about, but it seems that winters undergo subtle changes every year. With an open mind, I embarked on this journey, eager to discover the conditions awaiting us both on the slopes and at sea.

Our adventure began on April 19th in the port of Aalesund. After a pleasant breakfast on the boat, we set off for our first ski tour. The diverse landscapes of Norway had me in awe. From beautiful forests to white slopes, from breathtaking views of the fjord peaks to skiing all the way down to the sea – it was beautiful. I had never skied near the sea before, and it was certainly something special. The conditions were excellent, with mostly perfect spring snow and a shining sun. Back on the boat, we relaxed, feeling the sea breeze on our faces as we sailed to the next day's destination. Were we lucky to have such conditions in the first few days?

After several days of sun and calm seas, the weather started to change. We set off with light snowfall and slightly stormy conditions, but despite the bad weather, our spirits remained high and we looked forward to some skiing.

I wondered why we refer to stormy weather as "bad weather." It is another aspect of the weather that makes a day outdoors a completely different experience. Of course, it is challenging and difficult; the risk is higher, and in some places, you can be in real danger. But with the right equipment and attitude, you can conquer anything. Sometimes bad weather also makes you appreciate a rest day - it’s also not bad warming up in a cozy cabin with a hot tea. It is the uncertainty, doubt, and challenges that "bad weather" brings that often allow for very rich experiences, camaraderie, learning, and growth.

Exploring Norway by sailboat showed me that there are alternative and more sustainable ways to explore the mountains. Winters are changing and we must also adapt and change our approach and attitude. Finding new possibilities by being creative and, above all, taking the right steps toward a sustainable future.

Free Your Journey, Enjoy the Ride.