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 Sampo Cruise and Ice Floating
Icebreaker Sampo cruise with amazing ice floating
From Kemi: Icebreaker Arktis Cruise with Ice Floating
Icebreaker cruise with amazing ice floating
From Rovaniemi: Icebreaker Arktis Cruise with Ice Floating
Icebreaker cruise with amazing 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
Half-day Snowmobile Safari with Lunch
Enjoy the thrill of the snowmobiling across the frozen forests and swamplands to the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge – nestled by the river of Raudanjoki, where you will enjoy a lunch by the wilderness restaurant.
Rovaniemi Reindeer Safari Sleigh Ride 1h
1-Hour Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Visit to a Traditional Reindeer Farm
Korouoma Canyon Experience – Rovaniemi
An unforgettable winter experience combining natural wonders, gentle adventure, and authentic Lapland atmosphere.
Horse trail riding to the snowy hill
Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure in Lapland with a magical horseback ride through snow-covered hills. Small groups!
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
Private Snowmobile Sleigh Ride to Santa’s Hidden Cabin
Snowmobile Sleigh Ride to Santa’s Hidden Cabin
EBike to Wilderness Skiing in Pyhä Lapland
Life is short and so is one’s vacation. Choose our 2-in-1 activities and experience more in within a shorter period of time!
Ice Fishing Experience by Minivan
Catch trout, perch, and whitefish in the best fishing spots and learn the secrets of ice fishing in Rovaniemi with our Ice Fishing Experience by Minibus!
Fisherman’s Luck by snowmobile
Head for the wild waters on your snowmobile and learn all about the favorite leisure time activity of the locals.