Arctic Ice floating in Puumala

If you’re after something truly different on your trip to Finland, the Arctic Ice floating tour in Puumala offers a memorable way to connect with the winter landscape of Saimaa Lake. This short but fascinating activity promises a one-of-a-kind experience—floating on freezing water with the comfort of a waterproof suit, guided by friendly local experts.

What stands out most? The personalized nature of this private tour, the chance to float serenely in icy waters without feeling cold, and the engaging stories told by guides about the region. However, it’s worth noting that because it’s weather-dependent, poor winter conditions could lead to cancellations. This activity suits curious travelers eager for an unusual adventure, families looking for a safe yet exhilarating experience, and anyone interested in Finnish nature from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Warm waterproof suits make floating on cold water surprisingly comfortable.
• Private tours mean more flexibility and personalized attention.
• Short duration (around 1 hour 15 minutes) makes it perfect for those with tight schedules.
• Guides share fascinating stories about Saimaa Lake, enhancing the experience.
• The activity is suitable for most travelers, with good weather being essential.
• Cancellations are free if done 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

What is the Arctic Ice Floating Tour in Puumala?

This activity invites you to experience something extraordinary—floating on Saimaa Lake’s icy surface in a waterproof suit designed to keep you warm and dry. Conducted by LakelandGTE, the tour emphasizes personal safety and comfort amid the wintery landscape, making it accessible even for those who aren’t seasoned swimmers. It’s a private experience, so you and your group can enjoy it at your own pace without the rush of larger tours.

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a manageable adventure for those with limited time. The cost is $71.21 per person, which might seem modest given the uniqueness and personalized nature of the activity. It includes all necessary equipment, with the safety suit being the star—designed to keep you warm while floating in the icy water.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting Point and Preparation

The tour begins at Niementie 3, 52200 Puumala. Once you arrive, your guide will briefly explain safety procedures and share interesting stories about Lake Saimaa and its winter environment. This orientation is vital, especially since you’ll be entering the lake in winter.

You’ll then be fitted with a buoyant, waterproof suit—a crucial step that transforms what might seem like a daunting cold plunge into a comfortable float. The suits are designed to keep you warm, and guides are always attentive to your comfort level.

The Float on Icy Waters

After gearing up, your guide will help you step into the frozen lake. The sensation of floating like a cork in icy water is genuinely unique. As one reviewer noted, “Arto was a very friendly, patient, and humorous guide”, making the whole process relaxed and enjoyable.

Floating is done together with your guide, who will ensure safety while allowing you to savor the serenity of the cold landscape. The experience offers spectacular views of the snow-covered shoreline and ice formations, perfect for photos—your guide might even snap some memorable shots for you.

Post-Float Comforts

Once you’re back on solid ground, a warm drink awaits—a simple but effective way to warm up after the chilly adventure. Removing your suit and drying off, you can reflect on the experience, which combines both physical and mental refreshment.

Why It Works

This activity’s appeal lies in its balance of adventure and safety. The waterproof suit, the guidance, and the short duration all work together to make it an accessible experience, even for beginners or those wary of cold water. As one reviewer raved, “Klare Empfehlung!” (clear recommendation), highlighting how well-organized and enjoyable the activity was.

Why Choose This Tour?

Unique Perspective on Finnish Winter

Most visitors to Finland focus on snowmobiling, Northern Lights, or saunas—this tour offers a chance to literally float in the icy waters, giving a rare, peaceful vantage point. It’s a fantastic way to experience the stillness and beauty of Saimaa in winter.

Suitable for Families and Solo Travelers

Because it’s a private activity, families can enjoy it together safely, and solo travelers will appreciate the personal attention and the chance to connect with local guides. The flexibility of the tour also means you can enjoy it at a pace that suits you.

Great Value for a Memorable Experience

At just over $70, the tour offers more than just an odd float—it’s the intimacy of a guided, safe, and well-organized adventure. The stories shared by guides deepen your understanding of the region’s history and ecology, adding educational value.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing.
• Price: For just over $70, you get gear, guidance, and a memorable experience—an excellent value considering the intimate nature and uniqueness.
• Weather dependency: Since the activity is outdoors on a frozen lake, poor weather may lead to cancellations, with full refunds or rescheduling.
• Group size: It’s a private tour, so expect just your group and guide, which enhances safety and comfort.
• Meeting point: The activity starts and ends at the same location, simplifying logistics.

What to Wear and Bring

Though the suit keeps you warm, it’s advisable to wear thermal layers underneath and bring a towel or dry clothes for afterward. Warm footwear and gloves are also recommended, especially if you plan to explore the surroundings before or after the float.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

A review by Johanna Alicia_N highlights the friendly and humorous guidance of Arto, the guide, who made the experience both safe and entertaining. She appreciated the flexibility of the tour options and the visual memories captured during the session. Her comments reflect how guides go beyond just safety—they enhance the entire experience with local stories and personal touches.

Another reviewer described the float as “serene” and “like a cork in icy water”, emphasizing the calming aspect of the activity. The fact that most travelers found the experience “clear recommendation” speaks to its quality and appeal.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous types seeking a novel way to experience Finnish winter, nature lovers eager for peaceful, scenic moments, and families looking for a safe, supervised activity. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized, intimate experiences with guided storytelling, making it more than just a float in cold water.

If you’re pressed for time but want a standout memory from Finland’s winter landscape, this activity hits all the right notes. Keep in mind, good weather is essential, so check the forecast before booking.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, since it’s a private tour and the guide ensures safety and comfort, families with children can enjoy it as long as everyone feels comfortable with the cold.

How warm does the waterproof suit keep you?
The suits are designed to keep you warm and dry, allowing you to float comfortably without feeling the icy water directly.

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if conditions are poor, it will be canceled. You can then reschedule or receive a full refund.

How long does the entire experience last?
About 1 hour 15 minutes, including briefing, gear-up, floating, and warming up afterward.

Can I just join without a reservation?
No, booking in advance is required, especially since it’s a private tour, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours.

Will I get photos of my float?
Guides often take photos and videos during the activity, so you’ll have memories to keep.

Is it safe to float in icy water?
Yes, as long as you follow the guide’s instructions and wear the waterproof suit, the activity is designed with safety in mind.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary gear, guidance, and the warm post-float drink are included.

How physically demanding is the activity?
It’s suitable for most people since it involves floating and minimal physical exertion, but good mobility helps.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

The Arctic Ice floating tour in Puumala offers a rare chance to experience Finland’s winter landscape in a peaceful, memorable way. Its focus on safety, personalized guidance, and the stunning scenery make it an activity worth considering for anyone seeking an authentic adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a story to tell back home, this float on frozen Saimaa Lake delivers.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, intimate encounters with nature and don’t mind a bit of cold for the thrill. It’s particularly well-suited for those with limited time but who still want to tick off a truly unique Finnish experience from their itinerary. With excellent reviews and a well-organized setup, it’s an activity that balances adventure with comfort—one that promises to leave you with stories for years to come.