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!
From Haparanda & Tornio: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise and Ice Floating
Step aboard Icebreaker Arktis and dive into a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
From Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise and Ice Floating
Step aboard Icebreaker Arktis and dive into a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
From Kemi: Icebreaker Arktis Cruise with Ice Floating
Icebreaker Arktis cruise with ice floating
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
Husky Safari 5 km, Meet Reindeers, Hot Drink by the River, Self Driving Private and Small Group
Husky safari 5 km self driving and reindeers visit with a hot drink in the chalet by the river in small or private group.
Combo: Walking with Reindeer 30min & Alpacas 30min + visit
Book both experiences on the same day and save! Walk with reindeer and alpacas in Santa Claus Village and visit in Santa’s Pets.
Pineforest Pawprint (10km tour)
Pineforest Pawprint starts at 09.30 & 14.30 / Best choice for couples and families with older children.
Winter Clothing Set Rental in Rovaniemi
Rent warm and trendy winter clothes for adults and kids in Rovaniemi
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
Snowmobile Sleigh Adventure in Authentic Lapland
Sleigh ride and ice fishing on Lake Marrasjärvi—authentic Lapland adventure with campfire coffee and local treats.
Husky and Reindeer Experience with Snowmobiling
Experience Reindeer, Huskies, and an Adrenaline-Packed Snowmobile Safari!
Snowmobile Driving Experience – Rovaniemi
An effortless introduction to snowmobiling, an unforgettable way to explore Lapland in winter.
Snowshoeing Tour in the Private Kuoksa Wilderness
Snowshoeing is a great way to experience traversing through the untouched arctic nature. Invigorate yourself with this aerobic winter hike into pure arctic nature.