Explore arctic sea in Lapland
Did you choose Rovaniemi as a base for your arctic holiday? We assure you nailed it!
Witness a massive ice breaking power on an Ice breaker in the Bothnian Bay in Lapland, only 1,5 hours drive from Rovaniemi, Finland. The Gulf of Bothnia is one of the few places in the world where the sea completely freezes during the winter – explore arctic sea life from a deck!
Break the ice and cruise over arctic waters
Freezing wind is part of life in Lapland’s shoreline along the Bay of Bothnia, Lapland – as is the winter sun that shines in all shades of orange and pink. Both nature’s phenomena can be experienced on the two icebreakers that operate in the Bay of Bothnia: Polar Explorer Icebreaker and Icebreaker Sampo. Icebreaker Sampo’s harbour is in Kemi, Finland, meanwhile Polar Explorer Icebreaker operates from Axelsvik, Swedish Lapland. Both locations are approximately 1,5 hours drive from Rovaniemi. Book an unforgettable day trip to either!
Book Ice Breaker tours!
Polar Explorer Icebreaker cruise and lunch with shuttle bus transportation from Kemi or Tornio
Join us for once in a lifetime experience!
From Rovaniemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise and Ice Floating
Icebreaker cruise with amazing ice floating, lunch and SnowExperience365 experience
Polar Explorer Icebreaker cruise and lunch with shuttle bus transportation from Rovaniemi
Join us for once in a lifetime experience!
Polar Explorer Icebreaker cruise by your own car, 3 hours
Join us for once in a lifetime experience!
Swim in the arctic sea during winter
During the cruise, visitors get a chance to experience the freshness of wintery sea by floating in arctic waters wearing extremely warm floating suit. If that is not your cup of tea, discover the beauty of the Bothnian Bay by feet, as visitors will get an opportunity to walk safely on the frozen sea ice during the cruise. After unique outdoor activities, enjoy hot drinks in icebreakers’ restaurants. In winter, Lapland’s weather can be cold, and the sea can make it feel even colder than on land – remember to dress warm!
Find other arctic experiences
Northern Lights Tour Sleigh Ride
Explore Lapland’s beauty on a heated snowmobile sleigh ride to a remote forest. Enjoy a cozy teepee campfire with snacks, hot blueberry juice, and, if lucky, the Northern Lights.
5km Husky Sleigh Ride not self driven
Embark on an exhilarating 5km husky sled ride as a passenger, surrounded by the stunning Lapland scenery
Aurora Pro the photography expedition
Live an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience with our Aurora Hunting Expedition
Hunting Northern Lights with Lappish Barbecue
Hunt for the Northern Lights in the middle of the untouched nature, escaping from the light pollution of the town. Taste a traditional Lappish barbecue and warm yourself by the fire while waiting for the magical lights.
Unforgettable day trips on unique icebreakers
Icebreaker Sampo has been cruising on the waters of the Bothnian Bay for over 30 years. The vessel is like a moving museum! Polar Explorer Icebreaker is built in 1976, but it was fully rebuilt in 1991.
In both icebreakers, you can go and discover the engine rooms and all way up to Captain’s bridge. The duration of both cruises is approximately 3 hours. With transport from Rovaniemi, a day trip lasts approximately 8 hours.
Yes captain, I’m ready to go!
Polar Explorer Icebreaker and Icebreaker Sampo operate in February, March and April – In Lapland, those are the months when the sun starts to bring light to the days after dark polar nights. You can book a day trip with transport from Rovaniemi to both icebreakers. In addition, both will include:
- Ice breaking with the vessel
- Walking on sea ice
- Icy water swimming
- Lunch
More winter TIPS in Rovaniemi
5 Snow and ice buildings in Rovaniemi
6 ways to experience frozen waters in Rovaniemi
6 Wintery surfaces in Lapland
10 Romantic Winter Tips
Winter
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus and reallife winter wonderland located at the Arctic Circle in Lapland Finland.
Snow And Ice
For many, Lapland is synonymous with snow. In Rovaniemi, there’s white stuff on the ground for approximately six months of the year. Find out more here!
More activities with snow and ice
Searching for the Auroras
Aurora Prime Time!
All Day Ski Expedition in the Arctic
Get ready for your first Arctic expedition on backcountry skis! With your guide, you will explore Lapland wild areas with skis, you will learn how to prepare your expedition sleigh and some other basic tips. Lunch around the fire is included.
Snowshoeing & Ice Fishing on a Forest Lake
Snowshoeing & Ice Fishing experience on a Forest Lake
Snowshoe adventure in the Wilderness
Snowshoes grant us access to remote areas allowing us to connect with untouched nature and take in the glorious atmosphere of Arctic forests.