Edge of the Arctic: East-Coast Adventure

East coast adventure is a full-day snowmobile tour run by Frostbite Expeditions in Svalbard. The route heads to Mohnbukta on the east coast, passing through wide valleys, over frozen terrain and along mountains covered by glaciers. The tour runs from February to May, with activity between 08:00 and 18:00.

The day starts at the operator's basecamp with a safety briefing and instructions on driving a snowmobile, for first-time riders and experienced drivers alike. Along the way the group makes several stops for photos and for watching wildlife. Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals and birds are often seen, and polar bears may appear at a distance. At the coast the group explores ice formations at glacier fronts and icebergs held in the sea ice of the frozen fjords.

The round trip is 160 to 200 km and takes 10 hours. Groups have 2 to 10 participants, and the minimum age is 12. The page rates the difficulty at 4 to 5. The route may be changed depending on the weather.

Included are pick-up and drop-off at the hotel, a guide with safety equipment, a hot expedition meal, snacks and hot drinks, plus a snowmobile suit with boots, mittens, balaclava, helmet and goggles. Liability and SAR insurance is also covered. Guests pack woollen base layers, thick socks made of wool, an extra layer such as a thick sweater or warm sweatpants, a hat and a buff, and a backpack for a camera, snacks, water or spare clothing.