Arctic Ice floating in Puumala

Arctic Ice Floating in Puumala: A Refreshing Take on Winter in Finland

If you’re looking for something a little different during your trip to Finland’s winter wonderland, the Arctic Ice floating in Puumala tour offers just that. It’s a chance to actually float on the icy waters of Saimaa Lake — all while staying warm and safe in waterproof suits. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it sounds like a truly memorable experience that’s ideal for those seeking a blend of adventure, serenity, and a touch of the extraordinary.

What really caught our eye is how this tour combines a unique sense of floating on frozen water with the comfort of being fully protected from the cold. Plus, it’s private, meaning you can set your own pace and enjoy a personal experience that feels more like a friendly outing than a crowded tour. At the same time, a slight consideration is that the activity depends greatly on good weather, so it’s not something you’d want to plan during a forecasted storm or heavy snow.

This experience suits travelers who are curious about Finland’s winter landscape and want a hands-on adventure that’s safe and accessible. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends who are eager to get into the water in a way that’s both controlled and fun. If you’re short on time but want an authentic winter activity that’s off the beaten path, this floating tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique Float Experience: The tour offers a chance to actually float serenely on Saimaa Lake’s icy waters, a rare and memorable activity.
• Safety and Comfort: Waterproof, buoyant suits ensure you stay warm, making it accessible even in the freezing temperatures.
• Private Tour: Your group will have this experience exclusively, allowing for a more relaxed, tailored outing.
• Short but Impactful: At just over an hour, it’s perfect if you’re pressed for time but still craving a genuine winter adventure.
• Family Friendly: It’s suitable for families, with the guide providing plenty of stories about the local area, making it engaging for all ages.
• Weather Dependent: Good weather is crucial; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

What to Expect from the Arctic Ice Floating Tour

When you sign up for this activity, you’re in for an experience that combines nature, adventure, and storytelling. Starting at Niementie 3 in Puumala, you’ll meet your guide, who will take you through a quick safety briefing — essential for peace of mind and making sure everyone knows what’s happening. From there, you’ll suit up in a waterproof, buoyant suit designed to keep you warm and dry, despite the icy environment.

Once geared up, you’ll step into the frozen lake alongside your guide to plunge into the chilly waters. The sensation of floating like a cork in the icy water is described as both surreal and exhilarating. It’s a moment where you truly connect with the stark beauty of Finland’s winter landscape, feeling an unusual sense of weightlessness amid the cold.

Throughout the activity, your guide will share stories about Lake Saimaa and its surroundings, making the experience educational as well as adventurous. “Arto ist ein sehr freundlicher, geduldiger und lustiger Guide! Er hat interessante Dinge über Finnland und Umgebung erzählt und Tipps gegeben,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing the friendly and informative guide you’ll encounter.

After your float, you’ll return to shore and be treated to a warm drink — a lovely way to warm up and reflect on your experience. Finally, you’ll remove your safety suit and head back, feeling refreshed and glad you took a dip in such an unusual environment.

The Practicalities and Value of the Tour

At $71.21 per person, this tour is relatively affordable given the uniqueness of the experience and the personalized nature. It’s a 1 hour 15-minute activity, making it a manageable addition to your day without taking over your entire schedule. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and control over the pace.

The meeting point in Puumala is easy to find, and the activity ends right back where it started, simplifying logistics. The mobile ticket system adds convenience, allowing you to book quickly and receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The one consideration to keep in mind is the weather. Since this activity depends on good weather conditions, it could be canceled due to poor weather, but you’ll either get a different date or a full refund. That’s a fair policy, emphasizing safety and comfort.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One review sums it up well: “Arto ist ein sehr freundlicher, geduldiger und lustiger Guide! Er war sehr flexibel bei seinen Angeboten (Ice Floating und Ice Scooter).” This highlights not only the enjoyable nature of the activity but also the flexibility and friendliness of the guide, which can make all the difference when trying something new.

Another reviewer describes the experience as a clear recommendation, emphasizing the chance to make memorable photos and videos — a bonus for those wanting to document their trip in authentic ways.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re open to trying something quite different and don’t mind the cold (with the right gear), this floating activity offers a fantastic way to engage physically with Finland’s winter landscape. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate intimate, personal experiences and want to add a bit of adventure to their trip. Families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities might find this especially appealing.

However, if you’re wary of cold water or have mobility issues, it’s worth noting that the suits are designed to keep you warm, but you should be comfortable with the idea of cold water immersion. Since weather can impact the activity, those planning during uncertain conditions should be ready for possible rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This Arctic Ice floating tour is a genuinely unique way to experience Finland’s winter environment. It offers a rare chance to float on frozen waters with the reassurance of safety gear, guided by friendly experts who share stories about the region. The price is reasonable given the private aspect and the memorable nature of the experience, which makes it a solid choice if you’re seeking something different from the usual snow activities or ice cruises.

While it’s not an all-day adventure, the short duration makes it an easy add-on that can stand out as one of the more memorable moments of your trip. It’s best for curious travelers, outdoor lovers, or anyone keen to try something a bit daring while enjoying the peacefulness of the Finnish winter.

If you’re prepared for the weather and excited by the idea of floating in icy waters with warmth and safety, this tour could be just the thing to make your Finnish winter visit truly unforgettable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, the tour’s private nature and the use of waterproof suits make it suitable for families, especially those with older children who are comfortable with cold water.

What should I wear under the waterproof suit? While the suits keep you warm, it’s best to wear warm, moisture-wicking layers underneath — think thermal underwear and warm socks — to stay comfortable.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if the weather is poor, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the experience last? The activity itself lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

What is included in the price? The price covers the private tour, waterproof safety suit, and a warm drink after your float.

Is it safe to float on icy water? Yes, with the safety suit and guide instructions, the activity is designed to be safe, even in winter conditions.

Do I need to be in good shape to do this? Generally, yes. You should be comfortable in water and able to handle some cold temperatures, but the suits are designed to provide insulation and buoyancy.

If the idea of floating in icy waters sounds intriguing and you’re prepared for the weather, this tour offers a rare and memorable Finnish winter adventure. Perfect for those wanting to tick off a truly unique experience and ready to embrace the cold in a safe, guided environment.