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 Kemi: Icebreaker Arktis Cruise with Ice Floating
Icebreaker Arktis cruise with ice floating
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!
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 Snowmobile Driving
Snowmobiling allows you to explore snowy landscapes in search of the best spots to witness the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis.
Delightful Quadbike Ride around the Arctic Circle & Bbq
Join us if you want to drive an ATV (Quad Bike) from a lakeside and through the mystical Arctic forest!
Horseback Ride in Finnish Forest from Rovaniemi
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.
Traditional Lappish Evening in the Wilderness with Dinner
Experience the traditional Lappish firewood sauna next to a cozy cottage and take a dip in the private Arctic lake! Blow off some steam and enjoy a peaceful night in the authentic Finnish sauna. End the night with a tasty dinner cooked over an open fire.
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
Noon Safari to Arctic Wilderness by eSleds
Driving in the snowy and silent forest is an exciting experience.
Family Snowmobile Safari
This snowmobile safari is specialised for families and is tailor made for parents with little children. Snowmobiling experience for adults and children alike.
Aurora Borealis Safari by Electric Snowmobile, Rovaniemi
Scan the arctic night sky on a snowmobile looking for the Northern Lights
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.