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: Icebreaker Sampo and Icebreaker Arktis. Harbour for both icebreakers is in Kemi, Finland, approximately 1,5 hours drive from Rovaniemi. Book an unforgettable day trip to either!
Book Ice Breaker tours!
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
Finnish Legends & Tales Night Around The Fire
Enjoy a relaxing night around the fire in the Arctic forests, listening to legends and tales of Finland. This story-telling experience will offer you an opportunity to learn more about Finnish culture, traditions and local history.
Trail Riding in Breathtaking Arctic Hillscapes 1,5h
Trail riding in breathtaking arctic hillscapes. This experience is especially suitable for nature lovers who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and experience Lapland’s nature and the current season together with horses.
Korouoma Canyon Frozen Waterfalls
Discover the Frozen Beauty: Korouoma’s Breathtaking Waterfall Expedition!
Reindeer Farm Visit a real authentic experience
Experience the magic of Lapland’s local culture with our Authentic Reindeer Farm Visit Tour, including feeding, sledding, and cozy cabin time with hot drinks and cookies
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! Icebreaker Arktis is Sampo’s more modern little sister that arrived in Kemi in 2023.
In Sampo icebreaker, you can go and discover the engine rooms and all way up to Captain’s bridge. The duration of both cruises is approximately 3-4 hours. With transport from Rovaniemi, a day trip lasts approximately 8-10 hours.
Yes captain, I’m ready to go!
Icebreaker Sampo and Icebreaker Arktis operate between December and April. 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
Arctic Snowshoeing Day
Join the tour to try an authentic way to go through powdery fresh snow. The snowshoes are the best for hiking on rolling to steep hills.
2-Hour Snowmobile Safari
Join us on this unique 2-Hour Snowmobile Safari and feel the excitement of driving through the snowy forests in the Lappish wilderness.
Backcountry Ski Adventure in Lapland (Beginner)
Enjoy a backcountry ski adventure, adapted to beginners, into the white pure nature of Lapland! Your outdoor guide will take you to some elusive nature area where arctic nature shows its best features.
Snowmobile Photography Trip to Hunt the Auroras
Northern Finland is full of marvelous places for watching the Northern Lights. The first rule is go away from the city lights. The clear and starry sky means you can see the brightest Auroras Borealis!