Rovaniemi: Arctic Ice Floating Experience

Travelers seeking a truly offbeat Arctic adventure will find this ice floating experience in Rovaniemi a fascinating choice. It’s an activity that promises a blend of serenity and exhilaration, wrapped up in the icy wonders of Lapland. While it may not be your everyday spa day, it’s one of those moments you’ll remember long after you’ve thawed out.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the sense of weightlessness that comes from floating freely on icy waters is unlike anything else. Second, the expert guidance and top-notch rescue suits ensure safety and comfort, even in a frozen landscape. A potential drawback? It’s not suitable for those under 120 centimeters tall, and the cold might be a concern for the overly sensitive.

This adventure suits travelers with a bit of curiosity about the Arctic, those who appreciate authentic experiences over luxury, and anyone eager to tick a bucket list item off in a safe, well-organized setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this float promises a memorable dip into Finland’s icy heart.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic Experience: Float on ice in a safe, guided setting.
• High-Quality Equipment: Well-designed rescue suits keep you dry and warm.
• No Swimming Skills Needed: Suit keeps you on the surface, making it accessible.
• Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance safety and enjoyment.
• Stunning Scenery: Watch the unrelenting Lapland landscape passively from the water.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book with confidence, cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Arctic Ice Floating Experience

If you’re after a truly memorable Arctic activity, floating in icy waters in Lapland is a choice that combines a touch of daring with a profound sense of peace. The tour, offered by Safartica, lasts around three hours — a perfect short escapade that fits well into a broader Arctic itinerary.

Starting Point and Logistics

Participants meet at Safartica’s office on Koskikatu 9 in Rovaniemi, a central location that’s easy to reach from most accommodations. The activity begins with a safety briefing and fitting into a high-quality rescue suit designed to keep you dry and insulated. Guides are fluent in English, ensuring clear instructions and reassurance, especially for first-timers.

Transportation is included, so you don’t need to worry about how to get to the ice hole — the guides handle that. The tour typically runs during the daytime, with starting times subject to availability, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred slot.

What the Tour Involves

Once you arrive at the Arctic ice site, the real magic begins. You’ll don your rescue suit, which covers your entire body, providing a snug, waterproof barrier that keeps the cold at bay. Underneath, you can wear your own clothing, favoring layers that wick moisture away.

The highlight? Lying down in an ice hole between floating ice blocks. It’s a surreal feeling—imagine lying on a thin sheet of water with massive sheets of ice looming around you. The guides will assist and ensure your safety, so no swimming skills are required. As one reviewer mentioned, “You actually don’t feel any cold through the neoprene,” thanks to the suit’s insulation.

The Floating Experience

Once you’re in the water, you’ll notice a sense of weightlessness and calm. The sensation of floating effortlessly in icy water is both strange and soothing. Many find it almost meditative, a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse in the stark beauty of Lapland’s frozen landscape.

In terms of comfort, the rescue suits are designed for all-day wear, and the fact that you can wear your own warm layers underneath means you’re rarely cold. It’s worth noting that some participants, like Razvan, recommend removing socks to avoid leaks — simple tips that enhance comfort.

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The Scenic Value

While the focus is on the floating, the surrounding scenery adds to the experience. You’ll see the endless white wilderness, possibly snow-covered trees, and the distant mountains of Lapland. It’s a landscape that’s both harsh and breathtaking, and floating within it makes you feel like part of this pristine environment.

Warm Drinks and Relaxation

After the float, you’ll return to the starting point where hot drinks await. Those moments of warmth and comfort are essential, as they help you transition from the icy water back to terrestrial comfort. The guides’ professionalism and friendliness are often highlighted, with reviewers praising Hugo and Laila for their kindness and expertise.

Is It Worth the Money?

Pricing for this activity is reasonable considering the included equipment, transportation, guided instruction, and the unique experience itself. Many reviewers, like Onur, find it “priceless,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the organization.

Who Will Love This?

This activity is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to try something different. It’s especially suited for those interested in authentic Arctic experiences rather than commercialized attractions. It’s not for everyone — particular height requirements (at least 120 cm) and a willingness to brave cold water are necessary.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many who have taken part in this floating experience describe it as “weird but fun,” and “relaxing once you get over your initial fears.” Jennifer’s review highlights the guides’ excellence, calling them “great,” which reassures potential participants about safety and support.

Razvan’s tip about removing socks due to leak concerns is a good practical tip, and it shows that even minor issues are easily addressed by attentive guides. The overall vibe is one of friendly professionalism, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease.

Practical Considerations for Your Arctic Adventure

• Clothing: Wear warm layers underneath the rescue suit; bring an extra pair of socks just in case.
• Height: Participants need to be at least 120 cm tall.
• Duration: About three hours total — plan to allocate enough time for the briefing, floating, and warm drinks afterward.
• Age Restrictions: Only children over 120 cm can participate.
• Physical Activity Level: Minimal; no swimming skills required.
• Weather: The activity operates in winter, with water temperatures close to freezing, so dress accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Arctic Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi offers a genuinely different way to connect with the Lapland landscape. It’s an activity that combines adventure, tranquility, and stunning views into a manageable three-hour outing. The professional guides, high-quality rescue suits, and emphasis on safety make it accessible even for those with no prior experience in cold-water activities.

The quiet beauty of floating amidst floating ice sheets is something you’ll carry with you long after the cold has gone, and the feeling of weightlessness in such a stark environment is genuinely unique. It’s perfect for travelers craving an authentic, memorable Arctic moment — and for those willing to embrace a bit of cold to see the world from a different angle.

If you’re looking for an experience that balances adventure with safety and offers a deep sense of place, this tour deserves a top spot on your Rovaniemi itinerary.

FAQ

Is prior swimming ability required? No. The suits keep you on the surface, so swimming skills are not necessary.

What should I wear underneath the rescue suit? Typically, your own clothing underneath should be warm layers, but avoid bulky items. The suit provides insulation, so layers that wick moisture are best.

How cold is the water? The water is close to freezing, typical of Lapland winter conditions, but the suits are designed for insulation and protection.

Can children participate? Children must be at least 120 centimeters tall — roughly the height of around 4-year-olds — and should be comfortable in cold conditions.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation from the meeting point to the ice site and back.

Will I get wet? You won’t get wet if you wear the rescue suit properly, and the suit is designed to keep you dry during the float.

Is this experience available during the day? Yes, the activity takes place during daytime hours, but check availability for specific times.

This Arctic ice floating tour offers a chance to see Lapland from a truly different perspective — floating on icy waters, surrounded by snow and silence. It’s an experience that will challenge, relax, and inspire you all at once.

You can check availability for your dates here: