Inari, in Finland’s Lapland, offers some of the most serene and stunning water-based experiences you’ll find in Europe. Its vast Lake Inari, the third-largest in Finland, is a playground for boat lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape into untouched wilderness. We’re particularly fond of the Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ for its authentic campfire experience, and the Private Fishing Cruise & Wilderness Cooking Day for its full-day immersion into Arctic fishing and outdoor cooking. These tours stand out because they combine adventure with genuine local flavor — think grilling sausages over open flames or catching Arctic fish with top gear.
If you prefer a more relaxed, private sightseeing experience, the Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide offers a comfortable way to explore Ukko’s Island and spot wildlife. For those seeking a laid-back, intimate connection with Lapland’s wilderness, each option offers a different way to experience the tranquility of Lake Inari.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find four carefully selected boat tours in Inari, each with its own focus:
- An outdoor campfire and BBQ adventure on Lake Inari inari-lake-inari-boat-tour-with-campfire-and-bbq
- A private, comfortable sightseeing cruise with wildlife spotting inari-private-lake-inari-sightseeing-cruise-with-guide
- A private cruise with outdoor grilling for a relaxed Arctic experience lake-inari-private-cruise-grill-experience
- A full-day fishing adventure with wilderness cooking lake-inari-private-fishing-cruise-wilderness-cooking-day
Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Inari: Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ
This tour offers a perfect mix of scenic cruising and authentic Lapland outdoor fun. You’ll cruise on Lake Inari with a Yamarin Bow Rider aluminum boat, feeling the cool breeze and watching for wildlife. The highlight is landing on a remote island to build a campfire, where you’ll grill Finnish sausages and brew fresh coffee over an open flame. It’s a simple yet immersive way to appreciate the Arctic landscape, especially since the guide shares insights about the islands and local environment.
What makes this tour special is its focus on authentic outdoor experiences. The 3.5-hour trip is rated 5 out of 5 from travelers, who love the combination of adventure and relaxation. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a genuine taste of Lapland’s wilderness. The price is $709 per group (up to 5 people), which gives some room for a cozy, personalized experience.
A major draw is the chance to feel like a true Lappish explorer—grilling sausages over an open fire and sipping coffee made with traditional soot pots. The route explores Lake Inari’s myriad islands, giving a sense of endless wilderness.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an authentic outdoor experience with a small group and a friendly guide, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who want to combine boat cruising with a taste of traditional Lapland life.
2. Inari: Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide
For a more relaxed, private way to see Lake Inari, this customized sightseeing cruise hits the spot. The tour lasts 3 hours and is priced at $650 for up to 4 people. You’ll cruise comfortably aboard a sheltered, heated boat, making it suitable for all weather conditions.
The main attractions include Ukko’s Island, a sacred site with deep local significance, and the chance to spot Arctic wildlife like reindeer, white-tailed eagles, or even golden eagles. The guide is a local expert, sharing stories and insights about the Inari region’s history and culture. It’s an intimate experience, perfect for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the area without roughing it.
Since comfort and flexibility are prioritized, this cruise is well-suited for older travelers, families, or anyone who prefers a quiet, scenic experience with minimal physical activity. The boat’s sheltered cabin ensures you stay warm, even on chilly or rainy days.
Guest reviews note the guide’s professionalism and the peaceful, unspoiled scenery. The route is customizable, and the guide’s local knowledge adds richness to the trip.
Bottom Line: This private cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, personalized exploration of Lake Inari, especially if wildlife and cultural stories appeal to you.
3. Lake Inari: Private Cruise & Grill Experience
Imagine cruising through the Arctic archipelago in your own private boat, stopping in a peaceful bay to grill outdoors over a campfire. For $880, up to four people can enjoy this laid-back, authentic experience. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a combination of scenic cruising and hands-on outdoor cooking.
The tour emphasizes relaxation and connection with nature. Your host, a local wilderness expert, guides you through the landscape and shares stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and traditions. The boat itself is private, giving you all the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Wildlife spotting is a frequent highlight, with opportunities to see reindeer or eagles.
Unlike larger tours, this experience focuses heavily on personalized outdoor cooking—you’ll stop in a quiet bay, build a fire, and cook local foods in a peaceful setting. The guide’s in-depth knowledge turns the trip into a cultural and natural immersion.
While the price is higher, the exclusivity and hands-on nature offer excellent value for those wanting a true Arctic wilderness experience that combines boating, wildlife watching, and outdoor cooking.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups wanting a private, laid-back day on Lake Inari with a focus on outdoor grilling and local storytelling.
4. Lake Inari: Private Fishing Cruise & Wilderness Cooking Day
If fishing is your main goal, this full-day experience is hard to beat. For $1,004, up to four people enjoy six hours of fishing with top gear in Lake Inari’s rich waters. This tour is led by an experienced local guide who knows the best spots for Arctic species like trout, grayling, and arctic char.
The highlight is catching your own fish and then cooking it on an open fire on a quiet island. The guide provides all necessary equipment and instructions, making it accessible whether you’re an angler or a complete novice. The boat is equipped with modern electronics and a heated cabin for comfort during breaks or bad weather.
Travelers praise the opportunity to combine fishing with wilderness cooking, creating a true sense of outdoor adventure. The guide’s local expertise ensures you target the right species and learn about sustainable fishing practices.
The full-day format makes this ideal for those wanting an immersive experience, not just a quick trip. The price reflects the equipment, guiding expertise, and the included wilderness meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fishing enthusiasts or travelers eager to spend a dedicated day exploring Lake Inari’s waters, with the bonus of cooking and relaxing in Lapland’s wilderness.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best boat experience depends on your interests and travel style. If you want an authentic outdoor adventure with campfire grilling, the Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ is ideal. For a comfortable, private sightseeing trip with wildlife viewing, go for the Private Sightseeing Cruise. The Cruise & Grill offers a private, relaxed outing focused on outdoor cooking, while the Fishing & Wilderness Cooking is best for anglers or those eager to spend a full day immersed in fishing and outdoor life.
Consider your budget, physical comfort, and interests — whether it’s wildlife, cultural stories, fishing, or just relaxing in nature. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Inari’s boat tours offer an impressive range of experiences that make the most of its stunning lakes and islands. For a quick, authentic outdoor experience, the Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ shines. If you prefer comfort and privacy, the Private Sightseeing Cruise delivers a personalized touch. For a more laid-back, hands-on outdoor experience, the Cruise & Grill is a fantastic choice. And for fishing lovers, the Full-day Fishing & Wilderness Cooking promises a memorable day of outdoor activity.
No matter what you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic Inari adventures. Get ready to enjoy some of the most peaceful and picturesque waters in Finland’s Lapland.