Embarking on a polar expedition is a dream for many, but the harsh and unforgiving conditions of the polar regions demand rigorous preparation

Our polar expedition pipeline offers a comprehensive, adaptable, and progressive programme designed to equip adventurers of all levels, from novices to seasoned explorers, with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake polar journeys.

By splitting our pipeline into three phases; Foundation, Continuation, and Confirmation, we can provide a full spectrum of teaching depending on your level of experience.

Our expedition pipeline is designed to prepare teams and individuals about to embark on polar expeditions to the South or North Pole, Greenland, Scandinavia or North America.

EXPEDITION PIPELINE

Course Content

  • We will cover different types of skis, the anatomy of skis, the basics of waxing and using skins, and teach you how to ski.

  • We will introduce the different types of pulk, the technology, packing, traces, and hauling techniques.

  • The different types of tents, tent anatomy, use in the cold weather environment, and tent routine.

  • The layering system, types of clothing, types of boots, and temperature control.

  • Basic first aid, cold weather injury prevention and intervention, oral hygiene, medical kits, washing routine, and pre-expedition preparation.

  • Resilience skills and dealing with isolation.

  • Basic physical training, pre-expedition programming, and pre-expedition nutrition.

  • Navigational theory, compass and GPS use, route planning, and white outs.

  • The types of device, use of satellite phones and InReach, charging, and sched routine.

  • Types of stove, refuelling, stove safety, carbon monoxide management, maintenance, and moisture management.

  • Pattern of activity levels, understanding energy requirements, macronutrients, micronutrients, nutrition and hydration strategies, homemade snacks, and managing weight loss.

  • Team roles, routine, distribution of effort, team building, and management.

  • Winter camping etiquette, environmental ethics, local history and lore, polar equipment sustainability, and polar history.

  • If applicable, firearms safety, perimeter alarms, search and rescue, and routines.

EXPEDITION PIPELINE

Foundation

Our one-week foundation course offers the perfect starting point for adventurers eager to delve into the world of polar travel. Through a blend of classroom instruction and practical lessons, this course provides a progressive learning experience, equipping participants with the fundamental skills needed to embark on polar journeys with confidence.

Our comprehensive curriculum ensures that you develop a solid understanding of polar travel techniques, safety protocols, navigation strategies, and environmental awareness.

Under the instruction of one of our experienced team, you will apply these new competencies on a three-day unsupported expedition hauling your pulk and equipment for up to eight hours each day while navigating through the Swedish backcountry.

Join us on this transformative journey as we lay the groundwork for your future polar expeditions.

Dates

25 January - 31 January 2025

Continuation

The eight-day continuation course builds upon the fundamentals learned in the foundation course. This programme is crafted to push participants through immersive experiences and hands-on learning.

At the heart of our curriculum is a five-day mini-expedition, where you will put your skills to practice from advancing your navigation techniques to honing your tent routine. Skiing up to ten hours each day in difficult and testing frozen conditions aims to place you at the edge of your comfort zone.

This course is designed to challenge and inspire individuals seeking to push their boundaries with the expedition portion being student-led. Your experienced instructor will accompany you for the duration but they will allow you to safely make mistakes to maximise your learning potential.

Dates

31 January - 6 February 2025


We can help you plan and facilitate your final confirmation expedition. This trip is for those who have completed previous polar expedition training and need to certify their skills prior to an Antarctic expedition or a crossing of Greenland.

With our team of experienced instructors providing logistical support and safety cover, you can focus on immersing yourself in the expedition practising and honing your skills.

We will work with you to plan a route that meets your requirements. With access to numerous amazing routes across northern Sweden, we will make sure you can safely complete this expedition with logistical and emergency cover with access to an experienced member of the team to seek advice while skiing if needed.

Confirmation Expedition

What’s not included

  • We recommend flying early to Stockholm Arlanda and then catching a connecting flight to Umeå.

    Flights to Stockholm Arlanda depart from Manchester, London Gatwick, and London Heathrow.

  • You will need clothing suitable for temperatures down to -20C. and your own NNN BC-compatible ski books. Local hire in Sweden can be arranged, if required.

    We will provide you with a thorough kit list on booking.

  • You will require your own travel and medical insurance.

What’s included

  • We will have regular calls before you begin the training pipeline to ensure you are ready and to assist in your preparation.

  • Vehicle transfers to and from the Umeå or Skallefteå airport.

  • You will be accommodated in your shared team room where you can begin preparations together before the mini-expeditions.

  • All meals will be provided when on the course, including a fourth meal (nine o’clockers) to ensure you are getting enough energy.

    When in Allégården, our winter training school, you will enjoy full board home-cooked meals, limitless hot drinks, and Fika.

    All rations during your expedition are also provided.

  • We’ll provide you:

    • Full sleeping system (sleep mat, sleeping bag, outer bag).

    • Skis, poles, daysack, and pulk.

    • Team equipment (tent, stoves, cookware, fuel).

    • Safety, medical, communication and navigation equipment.

Course Prices

  • Standalone one-week course

    £1,995 per person

  • Standalone course eight-day course

    £2,500 per person.

  • Our confirmation expeditions will be tailored to meet your or your team’s specific requirements. Including equipment hire, food provisioning and accommodation needs.

    £POA

  • When Foundation and Continuation courses are booked together.

    £4,200 per person

    When a full Expedition Pipelines is booked together.

    £POA

  • We can cater to bespoke solo or team requirements.

    £POA