Tromsø: Arctic Floating with Snacks and Drinks

Travelers heading to Tromsø looking for a mix of adventure, comfort, and a touch of magic will find this Arctic Floating Tour from Authentic North an intriguing choice. It combines the thrill of swimming in icy Arctic waters while dressed in a protective survival suit with relaxing moments by a warm campfire, complete with snacks and hot drinks. Plus, there’s the exclusive chance to glimpse the Northern Lights in a truly unique setting.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and fun. Second, the cozy campfire experience, which transforms what could be a cold ordeal into a social and warming event. Third, the quality of included snacks, from freshly baked cinnamon buns to local treats. But, like any Arctic adventure, keep in mind that the group size is small, which might mean limited availability during peak seasons.

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a memorable, hands-on Arctic activity that balances adrenaline with comfort. However, it’s not suitable for children under 8 or anyone with mobility or weight restrictions. If you’re prepared for the cold and eager for a truly authentic Arctic encounter, this tour could be one of the highlights of your Tromsø trip.

Good To Know

• Safety and Comfort: You’ll wear a rescue suit for floating, ensuring warmth and safety during your icy swim.
• Authentic Experience: Combining Arctic waters, campfire snacks, and potential Northern Lights sightings creates a genuinely unique adventure.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Stephanie, Mathieu, Olivia, and Arthur receive high praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, making for a personalized experience.
• Excellent Value: The cost includes transportation, snacks, a floating experience, and a certificate, making this well worth the price.
• Well-Reviewed: With a 4.9-star rating from 430 reviews, it’s a highly trusted activity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Arctic Floating Tour

Transportation & Meeting Points

Your adventure begins with a pickup in Tromsø city center, either between 6:50 and 7:00 PM or at Tromsø Lodge and Camping around 7:00 to 7:10 PM. The small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, and the 25-minute drive takes you to the cozy cabin by the sea in Ramfjordbotn, where the magic unfolds.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Stop 1: Pickup & Transfer
The journey kicks off with a comfortable transfer from the city to the Arctic fjord. Knowing that the transportation is included in the $186 price point adds to the value, especially since the scenic drive offers a glimpse of Norway’s stunning coastal landscape.

Stop 2: Arctic Floating & Swimming (about 100 minutes)
Once at the floating camp, you’ll be fitted with a rescue suit, designed to keep you warm and buoyant in the icy waters. These suits are a game-changer—reviewers consistently mention how well they work, with many noting they felt surprisingly warm despite the Arctic chill. The guides, like Stephanie and Mathieu, go over safety procedures thoroughly, making even nervous swimmers feel confident.

Several reviews emphasize how the activity is well explained and safe, with guides even in the water helping participants. One reviewer mentioned how their guide Olivia took photos while floating, capturing the experience without anyone needing to worry about their phone or camera.

The Float
Lying on the icy water may sound daunting, but with the suits, it’s a gentle, almost meditative experience. Reviewers described the floating as “relaxing” and “surprisingly warm,” and many found the sensation of drifting on the cold water both “fun and fascinating.” The activity is short enough to be exhilarating without feeling overwhelming but long enough to soak in the Arctic ambiance.

Optional Northern Lights Viewing
If you choose the night tour, you’ll have a chance to see the Northern Lights. Reviews note that the guides are prepared to help you capture photos of this elusive phenomenon, and many mention experiencing the Lights during their trip—though, of course, nature’s display can never be guaranteed. Still, the experience of floating under starry skies adds a surreal touch.

Break & Snacks by the Campfire (about 30 minutes)
After floating, everyone congregates around a roaring campfire. Here, you can indulge in freshly baked cinnamon buns, prepared right over the fire, complemented by local cheeses, biscuits, and warm drinks. Reviewers consistently highlight how these snacks enhance the experience—adding a cozy, social element that balances the outdoor adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of Arctic waters, expert guidance, and thoughtful touches like snacks and photos makes this stand apart. The guides, such as Stephanie, Mathieu, Olivia, and Arthur, are praised for their kindness and safety focus, often going above and beyond. Their professionalism, combined with small-group intimacy, results in a personalized experience appreciated by many travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours, which feels just right—enough time to enjoy each element without rushing.
• Price: At $186 per person, this provides a comprehensive package that includes transportation, gear, snacks, and a certificate, making it a good value compared to other Arctic activities.
• Group size: Limited to six participants, ensuring everyone gets attention and plenty of photo opportunities.
• What to Bring: Warm clothing is essential—you’ll want layers, hats, and gloves, especially if you plan to stay outside around the campfire.
• Not suitable for: Children under 8, those under 4’3″ (130cm), or over 331 lbs (150kg). Also, participants must be comfortable in cold environments and be prepared for a physical activity.

The Value of This Experience

This tour offers a rare chance to experience the Arctic in a way few other activities do. Floating in the icy sea in a thermal suit, with guides on hand to ensure safety, is an adrenaline rush and a peaceful moment all at once. The inclusion of snacks and the campfire makes it feel like a true Norwegian adventure—hearty, warm, and friendly.

The small group setting means you won’t feel like just another number, and the guides’ enthusiasm ensures you’re comfortable whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a first-timer. The ability to combine this with a potential Northern Lights sighting adds an element of magic that’s hard to beat.

While the price might seem steep, the value is evident in the quality of gear, the professionalism of guides, and the overall experience. Many reviewers mention how this activity exceeded their expectations, citing the safety measures, fun atmosphere, and quality of snacks as highlights.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This Arctic floating experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy a mix of adrenaline and relaxation. If you’re curious about Arctic waters but want to stay warm and safe, this tour is perfect. It also suits travelers who appreciate small, guided groups for a more personal touch.

It’s a fantastic choice for those interested in Northern Lights viewing (if choosing the night option), and anyone looking for a fun, memorable activity that combines outdoor adventure with cozy comforts. Just remember, it’s best suited for those comfortable in cold environments and able to handle a bit of physical activity.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at designated points in Tromsø, making it easy to join the tour without logistical hassle.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential, especially layers, hats, and gloves. The guides provide thermal suits for floating, which are designed to keep you warm in the water.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours, including transportation, floating, a break, and snacks.

Can I do this activity if I don’t swim?
While swimming is part of the activity, it involves floating in the Arctic waters with a rescue suit. If you’re not comfortable swimming or floating, this might not be suitable, but many find it manageable with the suit and guidance.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old or those under 4’3″ (130cm). The activity requires a certain level of comfort in cold water and physical activity.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers the chance to see the Aurora Borealis if conditions permit, but as with all nature-based phenomena, it can’t be guaranteed. Nonetheless, floating under starry skies is a memorable experience in itself.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guides, rescue suits, campfire, warm drinks, snacks, and a certificate of participation are all included, making it a comprehensive package.

Final Thoughts

The Tromsø Arctic Floating Tour with Snacks and Drinks delivers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery. With expert guides, small groups, and thoughtful touches like snacks and photos, it offers an authentic Arctic experience that’s both exhilarating and cozy. Perfect for travelers eager to try something different and memorable, especially if they’re comfortable in cold environments.

Whether you’re seeking a unique way to see the Arctic waters, hoping to catch the Northern Lights, or simply want a fun outdoor activity, this tour stands out as a worthwhile choice. Just come prepared for the cold, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the extraordinary views Norway’s Arctic coast has to offer.

This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a safe, guided Arctic water experience with a warm, social finish. It’s best suited for adventure lovers, small groups, and anyone who appreciates a good story and a memorable snapshot of the Arctic.

You can check if your dates are available here: