Tromsø city center Urban Floating experience

If you’re headed to Tromsø and looking for a truly unique activity, the Urban Floating experience offered by Authentic North is definitely worth considering. It’s not your typical sightseeing tour; instead, it’s a chance to get into the water in a different, playful way right in the city center, with the stunning Barents Sea as your backdrop. Whether you’re after a peaceful float or a burst of adrenaline, this activity promises plenty of memorable moments.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: the convenience of its location in Tromsø’s lively city core and the flexibility to tailor your float to suit your mood. Plus, the inclusion of a professional guide and a certificate makes it feel like a well-organized, memorable adventure. On the downside, it’s worth noting that this isn’t suitable for everyone—there are age, height, and weight restrictions, and it’s not a traditional swimming or diving activity.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who want a different perspective on Tromsø, or even for those simply curious about Arctic waters without the cold, as the rescue suits keep you warm. It’s also a good pick for non-swimmers or travelers who prefer a more laid-back experience. If you’re after a fun, safe, and beautifully framed activity that combines urban scenery with Arctic charm, this could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Location: Right in Tromsø city center, making it easy to combine with other local activities.
• Experience flexibility: Float peacefully or add a jump for more excitement.
• No swimming skills needed: Suitable even for non-swimmers, thanks to provided suits.
• Guided adventure: Professional guides ensure safety and fun.
• Year-round activity: Enjoy it in winter icy waters or summer midnight sun.
• Value for money: At $93, it offers a unique Arctic experience with a certificate to remember it by.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Tromsø Urban Floating Experience?

This activity is a fun and unusual way to experience Tromsø’s Arctic waters. Instead of traditional boat trips or viewing from the shore, you get into the water dressed in a professional rescue suit—designed for safety and warmth. The idea is to float calmly, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps feel a bit of the Arctic magic firsthand, all without needing to know how to swim.

Unlike other floating activities that might be limited to ice or fjord environments, this urban version is set right in Tromsø’s harbor. It offers a year-round opportunity—winter icy waters, or summer’s midnight sun—giving you a versatile activity regardless of season. Plus, it’s designed so you can choose between a relaxed float or adding a splash of adrenaline by jumping from the docks.

The Itinerary – How Does It Usually Unfold?

Starting at Søndre Tollbodgate 19, you’ll meet your guide in Vervet, a lively part of Tromsø’s city center, surrounded by cozy cafes and local spots. After a quick safety briefing that lasts about 15 minutes, you’ll don your rescue suit—think of it as your Arctic armor—before heading into the water for approximately 1.5 hours of floating. The total tour lasts around 2 hours, including the briefing and a short coffee break afterward.

The floating itself is flexible. Many guests describe it as “calming, meditative, and relaxing,” while others enjoy splashing around or jumping off the docks to get their adrenaline pumping. The guides are there every step of the way, explaining techniques to float better, ensuring safety, and making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Why Do People Love This Experience?

The reviews highlight several reasons why travelers find this activity special. Most notably, the friendly, knowledgeable guides make a significant difference—they help you feel safe and make the whole thing fun. Guests also love the stunning views of Tromsø from the harbor, especially when floating under the midnight sun or polar night, depending on the season.

Another favorite aspect? The value for money. At just $93 per person, you get a unique Arctic adventure, a certificate to take home, and plenty of photos captured by the guides—meaning memories you can keep long after the float.

Guests frequently mention the activity’s balance of excitement and relaxation. One reviewer said, “It’s very calming but playful and exciting at the same time,” which sums up the overall vibe well. It’s not overly strenuous, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers, including those who don’t swim.

The Experience from a Practical Perspective

The tour’s organization is clear and well thought out. The meeting point is central, making it easy to include this activity in your Tromsø itinerary. The guides are attentive and speak excellent English, offering instructions and safety tips that make even first-timers feel confident.

What about the suits? They are designed for Arctic conditions, with insulating overalls worn underneath to keep you warm. Even in winter, guests report not feeling cold due to the suits and the warm drinks afterward. Guests also appreciate the flexibility—you can float quietly or add a jump, with some opting for the 2-3 meter drop depending on the tide, adding a bit of thrill.

The duration is perfect—long enough to enjoy the experience but not so long that it becomes tiring. The small group size and the presence of guides ensure that everyone receives personal attention, which many guests find reassuring, especially for first-time floaters.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At $93, this activity is a decent deal considering what’s included: the rescue suit, guidance, photos, and a certificate. When you think about how unique this experience is—floating in the Arctic waters right in Tromsø’s city center—the price feels justified. It’s not an extreme adventure, but it offers a glimpse into Arctic life with a fun twist.

Many reviews note that the activity exceeded expectations. Guests describe it as “more fun than I expected,” “relaxing and interesting,” and “absolutely worth it.” The fact that non-swimmers can participate adds to its accessibility and value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This floating activity appeals to a broad range of travelers. If you’re after an adventure that’s fun, safe, and photogenic, you’ll love this. It’s great for those interested in unique Arctic experiences without diving or ice diving. It’s also suitable for people who want a relaxing break with a bit of thrill, with the possibility of jumping or just drifting peacefully.

It’s less suitable for young children (under 8) or anyone over 331 lbs, but otherwise, it’s designed to be inclusive. If you’re not comfortable with water or cold, you might prefer to watch from the shore, but for those willing to try, it’s a surprisingly warm and welcoming activity.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?
No, you don’t need to be able to swim. The rescue suits are designed to keep you safe and warm, and guides are there to support you throughout.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather and season, layering is recommended, especially in winter. The activity provides insulating overalls underneath the rescue suit for extra warmth.

Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old or those under 130 cm tall, and there are weight restrictions (not over 150 kg). It’s best for older kids and adults.

How long does the activity last?
The floating part is about 1.5 hours, with the total experience around 2 hours including briefings and breaks.

Can I jump from the docks?
Yes, for those seeking more excitement, jumping from the docks is an option, with a 2-3 meter drop depending on the tide.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific arrangements.

What’s included in the price?
A professional rescue suit, guidance, photos, and an Arctic Ocean Floaters Club certificate. Beverages are also provided for afterward.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility should your plans change.

Is this activity popular?
Yes, with a 4.9-star rating from 95 reviews, travelers overwhelmingly enjoy it. Many describe it as “a once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

Final Thoughts

For those looking for something different to do in Tromsø, the Urban Floating experience offers a mixture of relaxation, adventure, and Arctic scenery—all within easy reach of the city center. It’s a fantastic way to see Tromsø from a new perspective, whether you want the tranquility of floating or a quick splash of adrenaline.

The activity’s welcoming guides and well-organized setup make it accessible and fun, even for first-timers. The suits ensure warmth and safety, allowing you to enjoy the Arctic waters without the shivering you might expect. Plus, the photos and certificate serve as lovely keepsakes of your Arctic adventure.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to try something truly unique, especially if you like being in the water or want an activity that combines scenery with a bit of thrill. It’s a great choice for those wanting a memorable story to bring home—floating in the harbor at midnight under the midnight sun or the polar night glow.

While it might not be for everyone—particularly young children or those with mobility concerns—most adventurous travelers will find this activity a highlight of their Tromsø trip. It’s a fun, safe, and picturesque way to connect with the Arctic environment, and it’s sure to leave you with stories to tell long after you leave.

Ready to float in Tromsø? This activity promises a fun, memorable, and uniquely Arctic experience that’s worth considering for your adventure list.

You can check availability for your dates here: