Tromsø: Arctic Floating with Snacks and Drinks

Thinking about adding a truly memorable experience to your trip to Tromsø? The Arctic Floating with Snacks and Drinks tour promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and a taste of Arctic life. It’s a popular choice, with a solid 4.9-star rating from over 430 reviews, and plenty of travelers raving about it. But, like all experiences, it’s not for everyone, so let’s explore what you can expect and whether it’s right for you.

What draws us most to this tour are two things: first, the idea of swimming in Arctic waters safely—which sounds both thrilling and a bit crazy—and second, the chance to enjoy snacks and warm drinks by a campfire after your dip. The blend of cold-water adrenaline and cozy comfort makes it a distinctive Arctic experience. A potential downside? It’s not suitable for kids under 8 or those who aren’t comfortable in cold environments, so it’s best suited for adventurous adults and older teens. If you’re after a unique activity that combines nature, culture, and a touch of daring, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Safety and Comfort: You’ll wear a rescue suit designed for floating in icy water, making the cold manageable.
• Flexible Timing: Options for daytime or night tours mean you can choose the best moment for you, especially if you want to see the Northern Lights.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety, help with gear, and enhance the experience with stories and photos.
• Authentic Food: Snacks baked over the campfire—like cinnamon rolls—and warm drinks add a cozy finish.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, making it intimate and personalized.
• Pricing: At $186 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a memorable Arctic moment for that price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour Really Like?

This experience from Authentic North takes you out to the fjords just outside Tromsø, where the stunning winter landscape meets the icy waters of the Barents Sea. The tour lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the thrill of floating, relax by the fire, and savor snacks—all without feeling rushed. You start with a pickup in Tromsø city center or at Tromsø Lodge and Camping, usually around 7:00 PM, and then it’s about a 25-minute drive to the floating camp.

The camp itself is a cozy, well-organized cabin right by the sea, where the guides prepare everything. The highlight is, of course, swimming in the Arctic waters—but don’t worry, safety is a priority. You’ll be provided with a rescue suit that keeps you insulated and buoyant, allowing you to float comfortably in the icy water. Many reviews mention how surprisingly warm they felt inside the suit, which is reassuring given the chill outside.

The experience isn’t just about plunging into cold water; it also incorporates relaxation and fun. After your swim, you’ll gather around a campfire, sip on hot drinks and water, and enjoy freshly baked pastries—cinnamon rolls cooked right over the fire are a common highlight. Several travelers comment how the snacks and warm drinks, combined with the scenic views and the warmth of the fire, create a perfect Arctic contrast.

The Float and the Views

Many reviewers, including Rosanna, describe the activity as “amazing” and “worth it” despite the cold. One noted that it’s a “very safe activity” with fantastic guides making sure everyone feels comfortable. The floating can be surprisingly relaxing, as several people mention how peaceful it is to drift on the icy water, surrounded by snow and the Arctic silence.

The guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness, with some even capturing photos of participants as they float or walk on the ice. This personalized touch is valuable because it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to take pictures yourself.

The tour is flexible—offering a daytime option to enjoy the Arctic scenery or a nighttime trip for the chance at Northern Lights viewing. While seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, many reports mention that the guides do their best to maximize your chances, and the experience of floating under starlit skies or Aurora displays is unforgettable.

Food, Drinks, and the Campfire

A standout aspect is the food and beverages. Reviews rave about the cinnamon rolls baked on the fire, along with traditional Norwegian snacks like brown cheese and biscuits. The warm drinks—hot chocolate, tea, or coffee—are perfect for warming up after your icy plunge. The combination of cold water, warm snacks, and a crackling campfire creates a cozy, almost meditative Arctic moment.

This experience is particularly appreciated by those who enjoy a mix of adventure and comfort. It’s not just about the adrenaline but also about the atmosphere—the camaraderie around the fire, the stunning Arctic landscape, and the sense of achievement after your float.

Practical Aspects

The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and guides focus on individual safety and photo opportunities. The cost of $186 might seem steep for some, but when you consider the full experience—transportation, equipment, guide, snacks, and the certificate—it offers solid value. Plus, many reviews mention how well-organized and professional the guides are, making safety and fun their priorities.

Participants are advised to bring warm clothing and be prepared for Arctic weather—layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof gear are a good idea. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 8 or for those with certain physical limitations, but for open-minded adults, it’s a memorable highlight.

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What Do Travelers Say?

The feedback overwhelmingly points to how friendly and supportive the guides are, with many reviews emphasizing their patience and helpfulness. One reviewer called the guides “super friendly and welcoming”, and another highlighted how “the guides took fantastic pictures”, making sure everyone’s memories are well preserved.

People also mention how the activity has “given them a new appreciation for the Arctic” and how “floating in icy waters” is surprisingly relaxing rather than uncomfortable. The food, especially the cinnamon rolls and hot drinks, is consistently praised as a perfect way to warm up after the dip.

That said, some reviews note the windy conditions or ice pelting at night, which can make the experience less ideal if the weather is particularly harsh. It’s good to keep expectations flexible for Northern Lights, as the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, but the guides do their best to optimize your chances.

This isn’t a casual, family-friendly activity. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable in cold environments, appreciate guided experiences, and want a blend of thrill and relaxation. If you’re looking for a unique way to connect with Arctic nature, enjoy cozy snacks after an outdoor activity, and don’t mind some cold water, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re visiting Tromsø and craving something beyond the typical sightseeing—something that gets you in the water, under the stars, and sharing stories around a campfire—then this floating experience is worth considering.

The Tromsø Arctic Floating tour offers a genuinely memorable Arctic adventure. It combines safety, scenic beauty, and fun, all wrapped up with friendly guides and delicious snacks. It’s a fantastic way to experience the Arctic’s icy waters without sacrificing comfort, especially if you’re keen to try something different. The chance to float in the snow-dusted fjord, enjoy warm cinnamon rolls, and maybe catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights makes this activity a standout.

While it’s not cheap, the overall value is high for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. If you’re prepared for the cold and looking for a story-worthy experience, this tour could be the highlight of your Tromsø trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, as the activity involves cold water swimming and outdoor conditions that may not be suitable for very young kids.

How cold is the water?
While the exact temperature isn’t specified, reviews suggest that the rescue suits keep you warm enough to enjoy the float comfortably, even in Arctic waters.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential. Think layers, waterproof gear, hats, gloves, and thermal underwear to stay comfortable before and after swimming.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, you’ll enjoy freshly baked pastries like cinnamon rolls over the campfire, along with hot drinks and snacks.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
There’s a chance, especially on the night tour, but it’s not guaranteed. The guides do their best to maximize your chances, and the experience itself is rewarding regardless.

How long does the activity last?
The total duration is around 3 to 3.5 hours, including transportation, the float, and the fire-side relaxation.

What is the group size?
Limited to 6 participants, making it a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

Is the activity safe?
Yes, safety is a top priority, with guides providing instructions, safety gear, and support throughout.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment can be made later, keeping your plans flexible.

If you’re after a distinctive Arctic experience that combines adventure, gorgeous scenery, and cozy moments, this floating tour might just be your perfect match.

You can check availability for your dates here: