Aurora Arctic Ice Floating in Rovaniemi, Small-group

Exploring the Aurora Arctic Ice Floating Tour in Rovaniemi: A Cold but Unforgettable Experience

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure in Lapland that’s both unique and memorable, the Aurora Arctic Ice Floating tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried it myself, reviews and descriptions from travelers suggest this is a seriously cool way to combine the thrill of Arctic waters with the magic of the Northern Lights.

What really appeals to us about this experience is how it offers a gentle encounter with the icy wilderness—floating serenely in an ice hole while bundled up in thermal suits—paired with the chance, albeit not guaranteed, of spotting the Aurora Borealis. Plus, the hassle-free round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi makes it accessible without the stress of planning your own logistics.

However, a word of caution: this tour involves swimming in cold water in the dark, which isn’t for everyone. If you’re not comfortable with dark, icy waters or have mobility issues, it’s worth considering. Still, if you’re an adventurous spirit who loves trying something different and doesn’t mind a bit of cold, this stands out as a remarkable way to spend part of your Arctic night.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are physically able to climb stairs, and are eager to experience the Arctic in an active way. It’s also ideal for those who want a more intimate, small-group setting rather than large crowds. Ready to find out more? Let’s dive into the details.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: Float in an Arctic lake under the Northern Lights, a rare and serene way to experience Lapland’s night sky.
• Comfortable gear provided: Waterproof thermal suits ensure you stay warm and dry, making the icy waters surprisingly manageable.
• Inclusive experience: Hot drinks, cookies, a campfire, and a cozy wooden cabin offer warmth and social bonding after the dip.
• Hassle-free logistics: Round-trip transport from Rovaniemi means no worries about getting to the lake.
• Limited group size: A maximum of 15 travelers means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• No guarantee for Aurora sightings: Since the Northern Lights are natural, their appearance can’t be promised, but the chances are highest from autumn to spring.

What to Expect from the Aurora Arctic Ice Floating Tour

This experience kicks off with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi around 7:00 pm, followed by a short 25-minute drive to a remote Arctic lake. The location is carefully chosen—far enough from city lights—to maximize your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.

Once at the site, your guides will give you safety instructions and tips on how to enjoy the float safely. You’ll be dressed in waterproof thermal suits, which are designed to keep you warm despite the icy conditions. These suits are key—one of the most praised aspects, with travelers remarking that they actually keep you comfortable even when the water temperature is well below freezing.

Many reviews highlight how surprisingly warm they felt during the float, with comments like: “The suit keeps you warm, but I would recommend extra layers in hands and feet,” which is worth keeping in mind. The floating itself takes place in a specially cut ice hole in the lake, allowing you to gently drift in the water while looking up at the starry sky. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience—standing out as a highlight for quite a few guests.

While the Northern Lights are a major draw, they are, of course, unpredictable. The tour organizers emphasize this, pointing out that they cannot guarantee sightings, but they schedule tours from autumn through spring during peak chances. Many travelers have still enjoyed the experience, even if the lights didn’t make an appearance.

After the float, you’ll gather around an open fire to sip hot drinks and nibble on cookies, which adds a cozy, communal feel to the adventure. For those who want to warm up further, there’s a heated wooden cottage available. This makes the experience not just about the float but about enjoying the Arctic night in a relaxed setting.

The Experience in Detail

The entire tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the activity and the post-float comfort. The small-group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and allows guides to tailor their tips and support, which is repeatedly praised in reviews.

The actual ice swimming lasts for about an hour for many, with guests describing it as “indescribable” and “incredible”. Several travelers noted that they were hesitant but found the experience surprisingly fun and invigorating. The waterproof suits are built to insulate, and many mention not feeling cold—some even stayed in the water longer than they anticipated.

One reviewer said: “Despite it being -9°C, we were in the water for nearly an hour—thanks to the suits and some friendly racing, we stayed warm.” The emphasis on proper gear and guides’ support makes the activity accessible, even for first-timers.

The guides are another highlight. Multiple reviews praise their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor, with guides sharing insights into Finnish culture and Arctic life. For example, “Alex is my instructor so funny and very nice,” and “Pedro was an excellent host and very funny,” are common sentiments.

The Practical Side: Cost and Logistics

At about $145 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: thermal suits, hot drinks, cookies, transportation, and the overall experience. For many, the price feels justified because it combines adventure, comfort, and the chance to see the Northern Lights in a peaceful setting.

Transportation is straightforward—your pickup and drop-off are included, removing any worries about finding your way to the remote lake. The tour runs nightly, starting at 7 pm, matching the prime time for Aurora viewing and Arctic night activities.

The tour’s physical requirements include climbing stairs and moving in water, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Travelers with concerns about cold water, or mobility issues, should consider whether they’re comfortable with these conditions.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity appeals most to adventurous travelers who appreciate outdoor, active experiences and don’t mind getting a little chilly. It’s perfect for those seeking a small, intimate group setting and who love the idea of floating in Arctic waters while possibly catching the Northern Lights.

It’s less suitable for travelers with fears of dark water, mobility issues, or those looking for a more traditional sightseeing tour. The experience’s pace and physical nature are generally well-managed, but it requires some physical activity and comfort with cold environments.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora Arctic Ice Floating tour in Rovaniemi offers a genuinely distinctive way to connect with Lapland’s wilderness. The combination of floating in icy waters in a thermal suit, enjoying the peaceful beauty of starry skies, and sharing warm drinks around a fire creates a memorable mix of adventure and relaxation.

While the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, many travelers have raved about the experience, regardless of the sky’s dance. The excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, good value, and the sheer thrill of doing something different in the Arctic.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, is comfortable with a bit of cold, and wants a story worth telling, this tour is worth considering. It’s an honest, well-organized experience that balances adventure, comfort, and a touch of Arctic magic.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi is provided, making it easy to focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about logistics.

What should I wear in addition to the thermal suit?
While winter clothing isn’t included, it’s recommended to wear warm layers underneath the thermal suit, especially for your hands and feet, as some reviews suggest extra layers for added comfort.

How long is the floating part of the tour?
Many guests stay in the water for about an hour, but you can stay longer if you feel comfortable, thanks to the good insulation provided by the suits.

Can I guarantee seeing the Northern Lights?
No, as the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings are not guaranteed. The tour runs from autumn to spring when the chances are highest.

Is this experience suitable for families?
The tour is designed for individuals aged 14-65 and requires moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for physically able teens and adults.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t suitable, the activity may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered if so.

This tour offers a mix of thrill, comfort, and the chance to witness one of nature’s most beautiful displays in a way most won’t forget. Whether you catch the Northern Lights or just relish the icy float, it’s bound to be a story you’ll tell for years.