Midnight Sun Floating Experience in Forest Lake

A review of the Midnight Sun Floating Experience in Forest Lake

This floating experience in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to see the midnight sun while relaxing on the water in a specially designed floating survival suit. It’s an activity that’s as much about soaking in the surreal Arctic landscape as it is about comfort and safety. With a friendly guide leading the way and inclusive transport from your hotel, it’s designed to make this extraordinary spectacle accessible and memorable.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is the thoughtful inclusion of the warm floating survival suit—a key feature that turns what could be a chilly outdoor activity into a cozy, almost meditative experience. Plus, the addition of tea and snacks on land offers a perfect moment to unwind and chat about Finland’s natural beauty. That said, a potential consideration for travelers is the timing—the tour departs around 8:30 pm, which might be late for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to the Arctic summer’s extended daylight hours.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager to experience unique Arctic sensations without extreme physical exertion or cold exposure. It’s a gentle, safe adventure ideal for those with an interest in nature, scenic views, and relaxed, contemplative activities under the midnight sun.

Key Points

• Comfortable floating survival suit included, making the experience accessible and safe.
• Guided commentary offers insights into Finnish nature and local environment.
• Round-trip transportation from your hotel simplifies logistics.
• The activity is perfect for early evening during the summer months, providing stunning views.
• Suitable for most travelers, with specific requirements for height (130cm+) and group size restrictions.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Midnight Sun Floating Experience

What is the experience all about?

The core idea of this tour is to give you a peaceful moment floating in Forest Lake while witnessing the midnight sun—a phenomenon that can only be experienced during the Arctic summer months. Unlike traditional boat rides, this tour emphasizes relaxation and appreciation of the natural environment, all while lying back in a specially designed floating survival suit. The suit is a clever inclusion that keeps you warm and dry, even if you’re not keen on getting wet or if the water’s temperature is on the chillier side.

The transportation and meeting points

The tour starts at Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi, with a pickup service that’s included, making it convenient to connect from different hotels. The pickup time varies, generally around 8:30 pm, so you should be ready 10 minutes early at your hotel lobby. The round-trip transport back to your accommodation ensures you won’t need to worry about logistics—simply relax and enjoy the scenic drive.

The itinerary in detail

Departure and pickup: Expect to be collected from your hotel in the early evening hours, roughly between 8:00 and 9:00 pm. The exact time varies depending on the season and availability, so checking the email confirmation is essential.

The floating session: Once at Forest Lake, you’ll receive a brief safety instruction from your guide. The highlight here is the use of the floating survival suit—a bright, insulated garment that allows you to lie back comfortably on the water. The experience is designed to be peaceful and contemplative, giving you ample time to soak in the endless daylight and beautiful natural scenery.

Tea and snacks: After the floating session, you’ll dry off and move to a cozy spot on shore. Here, the guide offers tea and snacks, providing a warm, comforting end to the outdoor experience. Several reviews mention how well-organized and welcoming the guides are—Christian was praised for being very professional, involved, and helpful, making even the most relaxed guests feel well-cared for.

Return journey: After the land-based portion, the group is transported back to the original meeting point, usually arriving around 11:00 pm, depending on the season and group size.

What makes this tour appealing?

The views: Floating in the lake with the midnight sun overhead is an extraordinary sight. You’ll feel like you’re floating in a timeless moment, with the sky glowing softly and nature all around. Reviewers often mention the stunning scenery and the tranquility of the environment, which makes it a perfect activity for unwinding.

The guides: Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. Christian, for instance, was highly appreciated for his professionalism and involvement, adding a personal touch that enhances the experience.

The value for money: At around $137.66 per person, the activity includes transportation, a secure floating suit, and snacks, making it a reasonably priced way to enjoy a unique natural phenomenon. Several reviewers noted that the experience exceeded their expectations, especially given the personalized attention and scenic beauty.

The practicalities and considerations

Group size: The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere. On occasions, reviews have mentioned smaller groups, sometimes just a couple, which can make for a more private experience.

Age and height restrictions: Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and anyone over 130cm can participate—important for families or those concerned about fit.

Timing: With the activity scheduled between 8:00 and 9:00 pm, you’re in for an evening of extended daylight in summer. If you’re visiting outside the midnight sun season, this tour might not be available or might have different features, so double-check the schedule.

Weather and water conditions: While the floating suit provides warmth and buoyancy, the experience is weather-dependent. Wind, rain, or cold temperatures might affect comfort, but reviews suggest most find the experience enjoyable regardless.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour offers flexibility, especially if weather conditions or other plans change last minute.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights

What stood out in several reviews was the authenticity of the experience. Guests appreciated guides who shared insights about Finland’s environment and local flora and fauna, making the floating experience more meaningful. The peacefulness of floating on a calm lake under the midnight sun has a calming effect, with many describing it as contemplative or almost meditative.

One reviewer appreciated the hot blueberry juice after the outdoor activity, emphasizing how thoughtful the extra touches are. The dried towels and warm drinks provided on land help extend the comfort after the outdoor float, ensuring you stay cozy even in the Arctic summer.

The human element

The guides make a real difference. Their friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to share knowledge turn a simple outdoor activity into a memorable moment. This personal touch is often highlighted as a key reason why travelers felt the experience was worth the expense.

Who should consider this tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the midnight sun in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer gentle, scenic activities over strenuous adventures. If you’re interested in taking in Arctic scenery without the chill of winter or the physical demands of snowmobiling or husky sledding, this floating experience offers a peaceful alternative.

The inclusive nature—covering transport, safety suits, and snacks—makes it a good value, especially for those staying in Rovaniemi. It’s also suited for families with older children (12+) and couples looking for a romantic yet laid-back activity.

The Sum Up

The Midnight Sun Floating Experience in Forest Lake combines comfort, scenic beauty, and expert guidance into one package that appeals to a broad range of travelers. You’ll love the peaceful float, the stunning views of the endless daylight, and the personal attention from guides like Christian. The inclusion of a warm, floating survival suit ensures comfort, even for those wary of water or cold temperatures.

For those who seek an authentic Arctic experience that’s more about relaxation and reflection than adrenaline, this tour hits the mark. It’s a memorable way to connect with Finland’s natural environment, especially during the summer months of the midnight sun.

While the experience is simple, its value lies in its serenity and scenic splendor. If you’re curious about Arctic landscapes, enjoy scenic water activities, or just want to take a moment to breathe in the beauty of Finland’s summer, this floating adventure will not disappoint.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Transportation from your hotel, a floating survival suit, guided commentary, and snacks such as tea and light bites are included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with the floating portion lasting around an hour.

What time does the tour start?
Pickups usually occur between 8:00 and 9:00 pm, with the floating activity beginning around 8:30 pm, depending on the season.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and participants must be at least 130cm tall to fit in the floating suit.

What should I wear or bring?
The tour provides a floating suit, so no special clothing is required for the water. It’s advisable to wear warm layers for onshore comfort and bring any personal items in a waterproof bag.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Are there any group size restrictions?
Yes, the maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What if I don’t see the midnight sun?
The tour is scheduled during the Arctic summer when the midnight sun is visible. If the weather prevents clear views, the guide will provide commentary on the natural phenomena.

Is the floating experience safe?
Absolutely. The suit is designed for safety and warmth, and guides are there to provide instructions and support throughout.

What makes this tour different from other Arctic activities?
This experience emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty over adrenaline, with the added charm of floating under the midnight sun in a secure, guided environment.

This floating adventure in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to enjoy the Arctic’s endless summer daylight in a peaceful, scenic setting. With friendly guides, inclusive amenities, and stunning views, it’s a memorable activity worth considering for your Arctic itinerary.