Rovaniemi: Arctic Ice Floating Experience

Traveling to Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland, opens up a world of extraordinary winter adventures, and one of the most unique is the Arctic Ice Floating Experience. This tour promises a blend of serenity, adrenaline, and the chance to connect with the pristine Arctic landscape in a way few experiences provide. Even though we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a compelling picture of this unusual activity.

What immediately attracts us is the chance to float on ice in a safe and comfortable way, the professional guides who seem to make the experience both accessible and fun, and the stunning natural scenery of Lapland’s frozen waters. We also appreciate that it’s a relaxing activity that offers a break from more energetic pursuits, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter, contemplative moment amidst the winter wilderness.

A potential consideration is cold water anxiety—but this is mitigated by the high-quality rescue suits that keep you dry and warm, even in zero-degree water. It’s an experience that appeals most to travelers eager for something truly different, with a willingness to embrace the Arctic’s raw beauty. If you’re curious about unusual cold-weather activities or just want a memorable story to tell, this tour might be a perfect fit.

Contents show

Key Points

Safe, guided experience with professional guides like Hugo and Laila boosting confidence.
Includes transportation, winter clothing, and hot drinks, offering convenience and comfort.
No swimming skills needed—the rescue suit keeps you afloat effortlessly.
Stunning Arctic scenery and the unique sensation of floating on ice.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Suitable for those at least 120 cm tall, with groups limited to adults and children over 3 feet 9 inches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Arctic Ice Floating Experience?

The Arctic Ice Floating Experience is a 3-hour guided tour set against the icy backdrop of Lapland. It’s designed to give you a chance to float in the Arctic waters while wearing a high-quality rescue suit—think of it as a floating sauna with a view, but much cooler (literally). The activity takes place in the daytime, allowing you to enjoy the crisp, bright winter landscape.

The tour begins at Safartica, a trusted local operator based at Koskikatu 9, Rovaniemi. From there, you’ll travel with your guide to the floating site, which is typically a frozen lake or waterbody where the ice has been carefully cut to allow safe access.

Looking for more options in Rovaniemi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Itinerary and Experience

Once onsite, your guides will give a thorough safety briefing—absolutely no swimming skills are required, thanks to the buoyant rescue suits. You’ll then don your winter clothing underneath the suit, which keeps you dry and warm despite the zero-degree water. The sensation of lightness in the water is often described as surreal, with visitors noting that they don’t feel the cold as much as they feared.

One of the highlights, as mentioned by visitors, is lying down in an ice hole between ice blocks—a truly raw and authentic Arctic experience. You may also get the chance to lie back and relax, letting your body and mind drift away as you float smoothly on the water’s surface.

Guides and Safety

Known for their professionalism, guides like Hugo and Laila are praised for their kindness and clear instructions. Their expertise ensures that everyone feels comfortable, no matter their experience level. From reviews, it’s clear that safety is a priority, and participants are well-informed before entering the water.

What’s Included?

A guide to oversee safety and provide local insights
Transportation from and back to the meeting point
Ice float in a specially prepared Arctic waterbody
A rescue suit and winter clothing, protecting you from the cold
Hot drinks to warm up after your float

This all-inclusive approach makes the experience not only thrilling but also very convenient, especially for those unfamiliar with Arctic activities.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Unique Aspects of the Experience

There's plenty more to explore in Rovaniemi

The sensation of floating on ice

Many visitors describe the feeling as “priceless” and “weird but fun”. The sense of lightness combined with the scenic backdrop of snow-covered ice creates a surreal environment. As Razvan noted, once you get past the initial fear of the cold, it becomes quite relaxing—thanks to the neoprene suit that shields you from the water’s chill.

The scenery

Expect expansive views of Lapland’s frozen landscape—a stark, quiet wilderness that seems straight out of a winter postcard. The bright daylight on the ice offers a gorgeous contrast to the dark water, making this an ideal activity for photography lovers.

The guides

Reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable and caring guides. Hugo and Laila, in particular, are singled out for their professionalism and friendliness. They help create a relaxed and safe environment, making sure everyone understands the process and feels comfortable even if they’re nervous.

Practical details

The tour lasts about three hours, which includes transportation, briefing, the floating experience, and warm drinks afterward. The group size is not specified explicitly but seems to be designed for a manageable number of participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Cost and value

While prices aren’t explicitly listed here, the all-inclusive nature of the tour—covering transportation, clothing, safety gear, and hot drinks—means you’re paying for convenience as well as a memorable experience. Considering the uniqueness of floating in Arctic waters in a safe setting, many visitors find it excellent value.

What Reviewers Say

Onur called the guides “very kind and professional,” emphasizing the safety and care provided. Razvan appreciated how getting over the fear of cold water made the activity more relaxing, and Jennifer noted that the guides “made the experience so much fun!” These insights highlight how the guides’ professionalism and friendly approach help make the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re an adventurous traveler looking for something completely different from typical winter activities, this floating experience offers a blend of thrill and tranquility. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with cold temperatures or willing to try something daring in a safe environment. The activity is also great for photographers and nature lovers who want a unique perspective on Lapland’s stunning ice landscape.

However, it’s not suitable for young children under 120 cm or for anyone with fears of cold water. Also, since participants must be at least 120 centimeters tall, very young children will need to consider other activities.

The Sum Up

The Arctic Ice Floating Experience in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to connect with the Arctic environment in a way few other activities can match. Thanks to expert guides, all-inclusive logistics, and the stunning scenery, it’s an adventure that’s as much about relaxation and awe as it is about adrenaline.

For travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and are comfortable with the cold, this tour delivers a truly memorable encounter with Lapland’s winter wilderness. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful yet exhilarating activity that will stay with them long after they’ve returned home.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the meeting point at Safartica is included, making the experience hassle-free.

Do I need swimming skills?
No, you do not need swimming skills. The rescue suit keeps you afloat and on the surface, and guides provide clear instructions.

What should I wear underneath the rescue suit?
You should wear your own winter clothing underneath, but the suit itself will keep you dry and warm.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including briefing, floating, and warm drinks afterward.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Participants must be at least 120 centimeters tall, which generally means children over 3 feet 9 inches. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations if traveling with kids.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

In a nutshell, the Rovaniemi Arctic Ice Floating Experience offers a blend of adventure, serenity, and stunning scenery, making it a standout activity for those wanting to experience Lapland’s winter magic in a truly unique way.

You can check availability for your dates here: