Embark on an unforgettable adventure across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia aboard the Icebreaker Arktis. This newly refurbished vessel departs from Haparanda and Tornio, offering a thrilling 3-hour cruise with stunning panoramic views and an exhilarating ice floating experience. Whether you’re a family seeking a unique outing or an adventure seeker exploring Finnish Lapland, this captivating journey promises an experience you won’t soon forget.
Key Points
- The Icebreaker Arktis offers a 3-hour arctic adventure cruise with panoramic views across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia, departing from Haparanda and Tornio.
- The cruise includes an immersive ice floating experience in survival suits and a completion diploma, with no upfront payment required.
- Morning and afternoon cruises are available, with the morning cruise including a visit to SnowExperience365 and SnowCastle.
- Pricing starts at $286.12 per person, with savings up to 20%, and a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
- The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users, and a minimum height of 140 cm is required for children to participate in the ice floating experience.
Overview and Pricing
Travelers can experience an arctic adventure in Finnish Lapland aboard the newly refurbished Icebreaker Arktis, which is launching its inaugural cruise season in December 2024.
Priced from $286.12 per person, the 6-7 hour cruise offers savings of up to 20%. Passengers can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
The cruise includes roundtrip shuttle transportation, a 3-hour journey across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia, an ice floating experience, and a completion diploma.
Looking for more options in Haparanda? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Cruise Experience
The newly refurbished Icebreaker Arktis is set to launch its inaugural cruise season in December 2024, offering passengers a unique arctic adventure across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
The newly refurbished Icebreaker Arktis will launch its inaugural cruise season in December 2024, offering a unique arctic adventure across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
The 3-hour journey includes:
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Panoramic views from the Icebreaker Panorama deck
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An immersive ice floating experience in a survival suit
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Refreshments available at the Arktis Café
Passengers can expect a captivating cruise experience aboard the state-of-the-art icebreaker, providing a thrilling taste of Finnish Lapland’s winter wonderland.
Itinerary
Depending on the chosen cruise, passengers can experience either a morning or afternoon departure. The morning cruise departs Haparanda and Tornio between 07:40-08:00, with the icebreaker setting sail from 09:15-12:15. Passengers then visit SnowExperience365 and SnowCastle from 12:30-13:30, before drop-off at 14:00-14:20. The afternoon cruise departs 10:35-10:55, with a lunch stop at Lumihiutale restaurant from 11:45-12:45, followed by the icebreaker cruise from 13:15-16:15. The visit to SnowExperience365 and SnowCastle is from 16:45-17:45, with drop-off at 18:15-18:30.
| Morning Cruise | Afternoon Cruise |
| — | — |
| Pick-up: 07:40-08:00 | Pick-up: 10:35-10:55 |
| Icebreaker Cruise: 09:15-12:15 | Lunch: 11:45-12:45 |
| SnowExperience & SnowCastle: 12:30-13:30 | Icebreaker Cruise: 13:15-16:15 |
| Drop-off: 14:00-14:20 | SnowExperience & SnowCastle: 16:45-17:45 |
| | Drop-off: 18:15-18:30 |
Inclusions and Requirements
The Icebreaker Arktis cruise includes roundtrip shuttle bus transportation, a 3-hour cruise, an ice floating experience, and a cruise completion diploma.
However, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
There are also some requirements:
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Minimum height for children to participate in ice floating is 140 cm.
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Guests are recommended to bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and warm shoes.
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Lunch at the Lumihiutale restaurant during the afternoon cruise is an additional cost.
Customer Feedback
Based on the provided information, the Icebreaker Arktis cruise has received an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews.
Reviewers praised the fun ice floating experience but felt the additional optional activities were excessive.
Some suggested including snacks and drinks in the tour price.
While the cruise offers a unique arctic adventure, the feedback indicates room for improvement in providing a more inclusive experience that meets customer expectations.
What to Expect on the Icebreaker Arktis Cruise
Adventurers aboard the Icebreaker Arktis can expect a captivating journey across the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
The newly refurbished vessel offers a range of immersive experiences:
Enjoy a range of captivating experiences aboard the newly refurbished Icebreaker Arktis.
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Panoramic views from the Icebreaker Panorama deck, providing a breathtaking perspective of the icy landscape.
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The thrilling opportunity to ice float in a survival suit, allowing adventurers to get up close and personal with the frozen Arctic environment.
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Refreshments and snacks available at the Arktis Café, enhancing the overall cruise experience.
With its impressive features and exciting activities, the Icebreaker Arktis promises an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Tips for an Unforgettable Arctic Adventure
For an unforgettable Arctic adventure aboard the Icebreaker Arktis, travelers should pack essential cold-weather gear and layer up.
Waterproof jackets, insulated pants, and sturdy boots are a must. Don’t forget gloves, hats, and scarves to stay warm. Bring a change of clothes to dry off after the ice floating experience.
Stay hydrated and energized by packing snacks and drinks. Arrive early to explore the SnowExperience365 and SnowCastle attractions.
Dress in bright colors to capture stunning photos against the icy backdrop. With the right preparation, travelers can maximize their time and fully enjoy the Arctic wonderland.
Preparing for Your Icebreaker Arktis Cruise
When preparing for the Icebreaker Arktis cruise, travelers should prioritize packing the right gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the Arctic.
To stay warm, it’s essential to bring:
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Layered clothing, including thermal underwear, sweaters, and waterproof outer layers.
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Sturdy, insulated boots to keep feet dry and protected.
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Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves to cover exposed skin.
Plus, a change of clothes and a towel are recommended for the ice floating activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Icebreaker Cruise?
There is no minimum age requirement for the icebreaker cruise. However, children must be at least 140 cm tall to participate in the ice floating experience included in the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board the Icebreaker Arktis. Refreshments are available for purchase at the Arktis Café during the cruise. Passengers should plan to enjoy the onboard dining options and amenities provided.
Are There Onboard Restroom Facilities Available During the Cruise?
Yes, there are onboard restroom facilities available during the cruise. Passengers can access the restrooms on the Icebreaker Arktis as needed throughout the 3-hour journey across the frozen waterway.
Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Memorabilia During the Cruise?
Yes, passengers can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia during the cruise. The Arktis Café on board offers a selection of items commemorating the icebreaker experience, including apparel, gifts, and snacks that can be purchased as keepsakes.
Are There Any Special Dietary Options Available for the Lunch at Lumihiutale Restaurant?
The cruise offers lunch at Lumihiutale restaurant, but details on dietary options aren’t provided. Guests should contact the operator to inquire about any special dietary needs they may have for the lunch portion of the experience.
The Sum Up
The Icebreaker Arktis cruise offers a thrilling Arctic adventure, complete with stunning panoramic views and an exhilarating ice floating experience. With roundtrip shuttle transportation and a diploma upon completion, it’s a memorable outing for families and adventure seekers. Don’t miss the chance to explore the captivating Finnish Lapland on this newly refurbished icebreaker, launching in December 2024.
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