Sail, Walk on Frozen Seas, and Dress like a Crab to Float in Icy Waters
I’m sure the Northern Lights, husky rides, and reindeer sleighs are already on your Lapland bucket list, but you’re still looking for truly unique winter adventures and you don’t know what to do, I’ve got great news! There’s one experience you absolutely can’t miss—the Polar Explorer Icebreaker. From cruising through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia to stepping onto the icy sea and even floating in freezing waters, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is pure Arctic magic at its finest.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Polar Explorer adventure, plus insider tips to make the most of your day!
If you prefer a video, check out my latest post here: Polar Explorer Icebreaker – All You Need to Know!
Plan Your Polar Explorer Adventure
Quick Facts:
- Likely to sell out—BOOK IN ADVANCE!
- Pick-Up Points: Rovaniemi (Finland), Kemi (Finland), Tornio-Haparanda (Finnish-Swedish border)
- Capacity: Up to 200 passengers per cruise
- Location: Axelsvik Harbor, Kalix, SWEDEN
- Daily Cruises: Two departures per day
- Morning cruise 10:00-13:00 Finnish time / 09:00-12:00 Swedish time
- Afternoon cruise 14:00-17:00 Finnish time / 13:00-16:00 Swedish time
- Duration: Full-day trip (5–9 hours, depending on pick-up point)
- Prices:
- Vary based on pick-up location (€315–€445)
- Meal choices
- €28 for a 2-course meal
- €4,5 bottle of water (250ml)
- Pictures
- €25 Link for Photos
- €40 1x Printed Picture
- €45 1x Printed Picture + Link
Why Choose the Polar Explorer Icebreaker?
Lapland offers plenty of incredible experiences, but the icebreaker tours top the list. While the legendary Sampo or the new Arktis are also popular, the Polar Explorer Icebreaker stands out for its family-friendly activities, seamless organization, and unique educational experiences.
Key Highlights Include:
- A quick visit to Sweden (Yes, you’ll cross the border!).
- Walking on the frozen Gulf of Bothnia.
- Floating safely in icy waters in a survival suit—yep, you’ll feel like a happy crab! 🦀
- Exploring the engine room, learning how icebreakers work, and meeting the captain.
- Complimentary hot drinks- glögi (non-alcoholic spiced drink, more or less like hot berry juice)
- Hearty Nordic meal onboard.
💡 Pro Tip: The Polar Explorer expects 25,000 guests this season (with December being the busiest month) so booking in advance is highly recommended!
👉 Reserve your Polar Explorer Icebreaker experience here!
🧒 Family-Friendly Note: Kids over 125 cm can join the floating activity.
Your Full-Day Itinerary
Pick-Up and Scenic Journey
The Polar Explorer departs from Axelsvik Harbor in Kalix, Sweden, with convenient pick-ups from:
- Rovaniemi (Finland): Stops include Santa Claus Village, Arctic Treehouse Hotel, and more.
- Kemi (Finland): Stops include Scandic Kemi Hotel and Kemi Train Station.
- Tornio-Haparanda (Finland-Sweden border): Near Candy World.
Once onboard the bus, you’ll receive a color-coded bracelet to organize your activity slots (lunch, ice floating, and free time). This ensures a smooth, stress-free experience for everyone.
🕒 Pro Tip: Remember, Sweden is one hour behind Finland. Adjust your watch to Swedish time as soon as you cross the border to stay on schedule!
Group Bracelets for a Seamless Experience
One of the things that makes the Polar Explorer Icebreaker experience so smooth and stress-free is the color-coded bracelet system. When you hop on the bus, you’ll receive a bracelet that organizes your day into scheduled time slots for lunch, ice floating, and free time. This thoughtful system ensures everyone gets ample time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed, so you can truly take in the Arctic magic without any worries.
For example, I got the blue bracelet. The icebreaker experience began promptly at 9:00 AM SWEDISH TIME (don’t forget to adjust your watch when crossing the border!). My lunch was scheduled from 9:50 to 10:45, and after that, I had time to float in the icy waters at 10:45. In between activities, I took advantage of the downtime to explore the ship—visiting the engine room, checking out the bridge, and even chatting with the captain. When the ship stopped, I stepped out to walk on the frozen sea, taking in the stunning landscape and snapping some photos.
Top Highlights of the Polar Explorer
Let’s break the experience so you know what to expect
1. Breaking the Ice
The adventure kicks off with the ship’s powerful hull carving through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia. Head to the front deck for the best views, but don’t overlook the left and right sides for unique perspectives. The cracking ice under the ship is unforgettable.
2. Walking on the Frozen Sea
Stepping onto the frozen Gulf of Bothnia feels like walking on another planet. The ice is 30 cm thick in early January and can grow to over 70 cm by late winter. Take your time to explore, snap photos, or simply marvel at the Arctic landscape. Even though I live in Finland and I visit Lapland in winter and spring, I still can’t get over the fact that I can stand on a frozen lake or river—let alone the sea. The SEA! It’s absolutely mind-blowing and an experience I’ll never take for granted!
💡 Did You Know? Depending on how cold the winter is, early-season ice can be 30 cm thick, while later in the season it can reach 70–120 cm. Your guide or captain will let you know the ice thickness on the day of your visit!
📸 Photo Tip: Get creative! Group shots, playful jumps*, or holding chunks of ice* all make for unforgettable memories- *If the crew allows you!
3. Floating on Icy Waters= time to look like a crab
💡 Pro Tip: You don’t need your winter jacket, gloves, or beanie during this activity. The suit is thick enough to handle the cold! On my visit, it was -18°C, and I wore just my pants and hoodie under the suit. My jacket and winter trousers stayed in the changing room!
- No Swimming Skills Required: Simply lay on your back and float! You can use your hands to navigate, and the staff is always nearby to assist if needed.
- Kid-Friendly: Children over 125 cm can join.
- Photography Opportunity: A QR code attached to your suit links to professional photos of your adventure, available for purchase onboard.
The highlight for many is suiting up in bright orange survival suits and floating on the icy Gulf of Bothnia. These specialized suits are made from insulated, waterproof material that can handle temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F).
Even kids taller than 125 cm can join in the fun—just be sure to check with the crew for safety approval. And yes, you’ll look like a crab, but that’s part of the fun!
4. Capturing Memories
Let me tell you again, the cracking sound of ice breaking at the beginning of the journey is unforgettable—make sure to enjoy it! It’s the frozen sea giving way beneath the ship’s powerful hull, and it’s an incredible part of the experience.
Of course, you’ll want plenty of photos to capture this unique adventure. Don’t worry—professional photographers have you covered during the floating session. They’ll document your experience and link the photos to a QR code for easy access later. When you’re suited up, the crew will attach a card with the QR code to your survival suit. After your session, take the card to the onboard souvenir shop to review your photos, pick your favorites, or purchase digital downloads.
When you’re exploring on your own—whether on the bridge, walking on the frozen sea, or just taking in the sights—those pictures are up to you!
📸 Pro Tip: Plan some fun and creative poses in advance. Think group shots, couple photos, or playful moments like holding chunks of ice or “jumping” for the perfect action shot. These memories are yours to keep forever!
5. Educational Adventures
This isn’t just a cruise—it’s a learning experience. Watch documentaries in the onboard cinema about how icebreakers work, visit the machine room to see the ship’s engine in action, and head to the bridge to chat with the captain and take in panoramic views from the highest point of the ship.
6. Warm Up with Hot Drinks
Warm up after your Arctic adventures with complimentary glögi, a non-alcoholic spiced punch—perfect for recharging before your next activity.
Dining Onboard: Arctic Comfort Food
Choose from hearty, warming options to fuel your adventure:
- Starters: Tomato soup or creamy salmon soup, served with bread.
- Main Courses:
- Oven-baked salmon with rice, green peas, and lemon sauce.
- Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes, lingonberries, and pickles.
- Creamy vegan pasta with green peas, broccoli, and mushrooms.
Important Note: While the meals are included*, drinks are not provided onboard, and there’s no drinkable water available. Be sure to bring your favorite water bottle or a thermos with your preferred hot drink to stay hydrated and cozy! Botle of water and other drinks are available for purchase in the restaurant ((€4.50 for 250 ml).
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Lapland Adventure
A day on the Polar Explorer Icebreaker is more than just a cruise—it’s a deep dive (pun intended) into the Arctic’s icy beauty and fascinating technology. For me, sailing through the frozen sea and hearing the ice crack beneath the ship was absolutely unforgettable. I can only imagine how awe-inspiring it must sound at the end of winter when the ice is 70 cm or even 120 cm thick!
In few words, the Polar Explorer Icebreaker offers a one-of-a-kind Arctic adventure that combines it all: you’re breaking ice, walking on a frozen sea, or floating in icy waters. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike—including, education, and natural beauty in one unforgettable day—truly one of the most unique winter activities in Lapland- and the reson this activity became so popular!
Ready to cross it off your bucket list?
Please note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission, which helps support my work and allows me to continue bringing you the best tips and recommendations for your Lapland adventures. Thank you for your support!
Not sure if the Polar Explorer Icebreaker fits your budget? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some exciting, budget-friendly alternatives that still let you experience the thrill of Lapland’s icy wonders. Keep reading to discover some amazing, affordable Arctic adventures!
