Icebreaker Cruise & Ice Floating

Imagine sailing through the icy waters of the Bothnian Sea aboard a mighty icebreaker, then taking a brave dip in freezing Arctic water—sounds wild, right? That’s exactly what this Icebreaker Cruise & Ice Floating offers. Though I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really caught our attention are two standout features: the chance to see a massive icebreaker in action and the opportunity to float in icy waters wearing a survival suit. Both make for memorable stories and photos. However, a potential downside is that the activities depend heavily on sea conditions and ice thickness, so there’s a chance some parts might be canceled for safety reasons.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love a bit of adventure, are curious about Arctic life, and don’t mind a chilly challenge. If you’re after a one-of-a-kind journey that combines engineering marvels with a taste of Arctic bravery, then this cruise probably deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Key Points

• Spectacular Icebreaker Action: Witness the power of a real icebreaker slicing through thick ice.
• Thorough Exploration: Self-guided audio tour covering all 7 decks offers a detailed look at the vessel.
• Ice Swimming: Float in the freezing waters in a survival suit—an experience that’s both exhilarating and memorable.
• Walking on Ice: Safe, guided walks on the frozen sea add a unique perspective of the Arctic landscape.
• Certificates & Memories: Receive a Cruise & Swim certificate as a keepsake of your Arctic adventure.
• Flexible and Informative: The tour lasts around 10 hours, includes multilingual audio guides, and offers optional meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Out at Axelsvik

You’ll begin your day by driving to the Polar Explorer Icebreaker terminal in Axelsvik, Sweden. The check-in process seems straightforward and hassle-free, and from there, it’s just a short journey onto the vessel. Having your own car is convenient for this setup, and it means you can explore or leave at your own pace afterward.

Boarding the Icebreaker

Once onboard, the real magic begins. The vessel itself is an engineering wonder, built to crush through the thickest ice. You’re encouraged to take a self-guided tour using an audio guide available in 16 languages. This enhances the experience, giving you the chance to learn about the ship’s design, its role in Arctic operations, and the history of icebreaking—without feeling rushed.

Witnessing the Icebreaking Power

One of the main highlights is watching the icebreaker in action. It’s quite a sight to see the ship push through the frozen surface with immense force, cracking and shifting the ice. For many, this part is the jaw-dropping moment—an impressive display of engineering and natural power.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Decks & Watching a Film

There are 7 decks to explore, each offering different perspectives and perhaps a few cozy spots to enjoy the scenery. If you’re into learning more, the onboard theatre shows an 11-minute film about icebreakers, which is a nice quick education on these Arctic giants.

The Ice Floating & Sea Walks

Next comes the daring bit: floating in icy waters while wearing a specially designed survival suit. It’s safe, but it’s also cold—so be prepared for a shock to the system. Several reviewers mention this as a real adrenaline rush. Walking on the frozen sea is another highlight, offering a rare chance to see the Arctic landscape up close.

While activities depend on sea conditions, many guests find that the safety measures are well explained and that the staff is attentive. It’s worth noting that if sea ice is too thick or conditions are unsafe, activities like floating or walking might be restricted or canceled—something to keep in mind if these are your main goals.

After the Adventure

Upon completing your activities, the captain hands out a Cruise & Swim certificate, a personalized keepsake that confirms your Arctic bravery. You’ll then enjoy a scenic drive back, often reflecting on the incredible sights and sensations of the day.

Food & Refreshments

You can choose to add a 2-course meal at an extra cost, either pre-ordered or bought on the spot. Snacks and drinks are also available, making the journey more comfortable if you need a warm-up or energy boost.

The Value of the Experience

When considering the cost, think about what you’re getting: a full day of Arctic exploration, the chance to see a real icebreaker in action, and the thrill of icy water floating—all topped with a cool certificate to show off later. It’s not a cheap tour, but for many, the uniqueness of the activities and the sense of adventure justify the price.

Plus, the experience is quite flexible—cancel up to 120 days in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind. The multilingual audio guide and the detailed ship tour ensure that you’re getting a well-rounded education about the Arctic environment and icebreaking operations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those who crave adventure, are okay with cold weather, and want an active, engaging Arctic experience. While not specifically tailored for families, older children or teens who are comfortable with chilly conditions can certainly enjoy the activities. It’s less suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the sea walks and ice activities, but for those who love a practical challenge and a story to tell, it’s a winner.

Final Thoughts

This Icebreaker Cruise & Ice Floating experience is a bold way to see the Arctic from a different angle. You won’t just be watching the icy landscape; you’ll be engaging with it—standing on the frozen sea, floating in Arctic waters, and marveling at the strength of the ships that keep these waters navigable.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the blend of engineering marvels with raw natural beauty. The fact that you can explore all decks of an icebreaker, learn about its history, and then stand on the ice itself makes it a multifaceted adventure.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a memorable, hands-on Arctic experience and don’t mind the cold. It’s a good pick for those who appreciate a mix of education, thrill, and scenery, with enough flexibility to accommodate your comfort and safety.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to wear warm clothing since activities like floating and sea walks depend on sea conditions. Dressing in layers and waterproof gear will help you stay comfortable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 120 days in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, older children or teenagers comfortable with cold activities might enjoy it. Check with the provider if you’re considering this for younger kids.

What languages is the audio guide available in?
The audio guide is available in 16 languages, including Chinese, Finnish, English, French, German, Hebrew, and more, making the experience accessible to many travelers.

Will I get wet during the floating activity?
Yes, you’ll be floating in icy water while wearing a survival suit. The suits are designed for safety, but the water will be cold—prepare accordingly.

What happens if sea conditions are unsafe?
Activities like floating and walking on ice can be restricted or canceled if conditions are unsafe. The operator prioritizes safety and will inform participants accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience lasts about 10 hours, offering ample time for exploration, activities, and relaxing scenic drives.

Is there food available?
Yes, you can purchase a 2-course meal at an extra cost, with options to pre-order or buy on board. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase.

If you’re curious about Arctic icebreaking, daring to float in icy water, and exploring a real icebreaker up close, this tour offers an intriguing blend of adventure and education. Just remember to dress warmly, stay flexible, and enjoy the wild beauty of Lapland’s ice-covered waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: