Aurora Arctic Ice Floating in Rovaniemi, Small-group

Experience the Arctic from a New Perspective: Rovaniemi’s Ice Floating Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the magic of the Northern Lights with a truly unique activity, this small-group Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi is worth considering. It offers a blend of calm, awe-inspiring scenery and cozy comforts—all while giving you a chance to float serenely in icy waters, wrapped in thermal suits, under the Arctic sky. With a high satisfaction rating (5.0 out of 5 from 71 reviews), many travelers rave about how this experience became a highlight of their trip to Lapland.

What we really love about this tour is its authentic approach—it’s more than just a selfie with the Aurora. The guides are praised for their warmth, humor, and knowledge, making the experience both safe and genuinely engaging. Plus, the combination of floating in a thermal suit, the chance to see the Northern Lights, and warming up around a fire makes it a well-rounded outing. However, it’s also important to note that this activity involves some physicality (climbing into and out of icy water) and requires a moderate level of fitness.

This tour is a fantastic pick for those who want to try something different beyond traditional snowmobiling or husky rides. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers aged 14-65, with a keen interest in Arctic landscapes and nature’s wonders. If you’re comfortable with dark waters and cold weather (or at least confident in your physical abilities), you’ll likely find this experience both memorable and well worth the price of around $145 per person.

Key Points

• Unique Arctic Experience: Float in icy waters while watching for the Northern Lights.
• Comfort and Safety: Waterproof thermal suits keep you warm and dry.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hot drinks, snacks, a campfire, and a heated cabin included.
• Round-Trip Ease: Hassle-free pickup and transportation from Rovaniemi.
• Limited Group Size: Small tours (max 15 travelers) for a more personalized experience.
• Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed but are more likely from autumn to spring.

In-Depth Review of the Rovaniemi Ice Floating Tour

The Itinerary: How the Experience Unfolds

From the moment you book, the tour’s setup is designed to maximize comfort and adventure. Starting at the Rovaniemi Tourist Information, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle and taken roughly 25 minutes outside the city to a pristine Arctic lake. This departure point is carefully chosen for its dark skies, away from city lights, increasing your odds of catching the Northern Lights.

Once at the lake, the guides provide a thorough safety briefing, helpful tips, and lend you a thermal rescue floating suit. We loved how guides like Alex and Pedro are not only professional but also friendly and approachable, which eases any nerves about the icy water. They offer insights into Finnish culture and nature, enriching the experience beyond just floating.

The highlight? Climbing into the ice hole, which is cut into the frozen lake, and floating calmly while gazing at the starry sky. Reviewers like Travis noted, “It’s so fun to float around in the ice water,” adding that the suits do a great job of keeping you warm—even in temperatures that can plummet to -24°C or lower. Staying in the water for about an hour, some guests say, feels surprisingly comfortable thanks to the thermal layer.

The Floating Experience: What It’s Really Like

Floating in icy water might sound terrifying, but most guests describe it as invigorating rather than freezing. The thermal suits, which resemble wetsuits but much thicker, are praised for their insulating properties. Several reviews mention that even at -28°C, they didn’t feel cold once suited up. The suits allow for freedom of movement and help you relax, encouraging a peaceful, almost meditative float beneath the night sky.

For those concerned about the cold hands and feet, some reviewers suggest bringing extra layers, especially for extremities, to maximize comfort. The team sometimes offers racing games or light-hearted competitions to keep everyone moving and warm.

The experience isn’t just about the water; it’s about the environment. Floating in the Arctic’s dark, silent waters while the possibility of spotting auroras above adds a touch of magic. Reviewers like Hakim highlighted the humor and friendliness of guides like Alex, which makes all the difference when trying something so unique.

The Comforts and Extras: Warming Up After the Cold Dip

After the icy adventure, you’re brought back to the cozy wooden cabin or fire pit. Here, the warmth of hot drinks—tea, cocoa, or coffee—and cookies help restore your body temperature and set a convivial tone. Many reviewers noted how relaxing it is to sit by the fire, sharing stories, and enjoying the peaceful night.

The tour’s inclusions are thoughtfully curated to ensure comfort. The all-in-one price covers the thermal suits, transportation, snacks, and taxes. Just remember, winter clothing isn’t included, so layering up beforehand is advisable.

Aurora Hunting in the Arctic Night

While floating, the hope is to glimpse the Northern Lights. The tour emphasizes that, like all natural phenomena, Aurora sightings are not guaranteed. However, traveling from autumn to spring increases your chances significantly, and many guests report seeing vivid displays, especially when conditions are clear. Several reviews describe the Aurora as “incredible” or “beautiful,” though some noted they missed the lights altogether, which is understandable given the unpredictability of the sky.

Practical Details: How It Fits Into Your Trip

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. Starting at 7:00 pm, it fits well into a typical Arctic itinerary. Small group sizes (up to 15 travelers) foster a friendly environment, and the round-trip logistics mean you won’t have to worry about transportation.

Guests should have moderate physical fitness—climbing into the water and moving around in cold conditions requires some mobility and confidence. The maximum weight is 110kg, with age limits from 14 to 65 years, and a height range of 150cm to 210cm.

Pricing and Value

At around $145 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering all inclusions: transportation, thermal suits, hot drinks, snacks, and the experience itself. It’s an activity that many reviewers felt was worth the cost, especially when you consider the memories created and the chance to see the Northern Lights from a truly different perspective.

A few reviewers remarked that extra layers on hands and feet could improve comfort, and capturing photos requires a waterproof camera or phone because the focus is on experiencing the moment.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 5-star average. Guests love the knowledgeable guides like Alex, Pedro, and Tanja, who make the experience fun and reassuring. Comments like “Must try to feel different of Nordic experiences” and “The best activity in Rovaniemi” showcase how memorable and enjoyable the activity is.

Many find the floating remarkably relaxing and some even stayed in the water longer than planned, describing it as “an incredible feeling,” and “absolutely indescribable.” The combination of floating, star-gazing, and possibly seeing the Aurora creates a night to remember.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re the type of traveler who craves authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, you’ll appreciate this Arctic float. It’s perfect for those who want to combine a little adrenaline with serenity, and aren’t afraid of a bit of cold water. The activity suits those with moderate physical fitness and an adventurous spirit, looking for something more than just sightseeing.

While not guaranteed, the potential to witness the Northern Lights adds a layer of excitement and hope. It’s especially suitable for travelers in autumn, winter, or early spring when Aurora activity peaks.

The Sum Up

This Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi stands out as a refreshing, engaging way to experience Lapland’s Arctic wilderness. The combination of floating in icy waters, enjoying hot drinks by a fire, and the chance—though not a certainty—to see the Northern Lights makes it a memorable adventure. The knowledgeable guides, snug thermal suits, and intimate group sizes enhance the overall value, making it feel both safe and special.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to try something different, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and enjoy awe-inspiring natural scenery. The small group setting fosters a friendly, personalized vibe that helps you feel more confident and relaxed in the cold environment.

While the likelihood of Aurora sightings depends on natural conditions, the overall experience of floating in the Arctic under a starry sky, surrounded by warmth and good company, is what truly makes this tour shine.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour provides round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi, making logistics hassle-free.

What should I wear?
Winter clothing isn’t included, so bring layers, especially for your hands and feet, to stay comfortable before and after the float.

How long does the activity last?
The whole experience takes about 3 hours, starting at 7:00 pm.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, as they depend on weather and sky conditions. However, the tour is scheduled during peak Aurora season (autumn to spring).

What age is suitable?
Participants should be between 14 and 65 years old, with a height between 150cm and 210cm, and a maximum weight of 110kg.

Is the activity physically demanding?
It requires moderate physical activity—climbing into the ice hole and floating in cold water. Good mobility and comfort in water are recommended.

What is included in the price?
Thermal rescue suits, transportation, hot drinks, cookies, and all taxes and fees.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes. Reviews highlight guides like Alex, Pedro, and Tanja for their friendliness, humor, and insights into Finnish culture.

Can I take photos?
Yes, but waterproof equipment is recommended if you want good shots, as the activity takes place in cold, wet conditions.

In essence, this tour offers a rare chance to blend adventure, relaxation, and Arctic beauty into one unforgettable night. Perfect for those eager to experience Lapland’s true wilderness, with an extra layer of warmth and camaraderie.