Ice floating is exactly what it sounds like, and it is one of the odder and more memorable Lapland experiences. A guide cuts a hole in the ice of a lake, you put on a thick, buoyant drysuit that covers everything except your face and hands, and you lie back and float in the dark water, surrounded by ice and snow. The suit keeps you dry and warm and makes you float like a cork, so you do not need to swim, and the sensation of weightlessness in the silence of a frozen lake is the draw. Some tours run in the evening so that you may see the Northern Lights above, while daytime floats take in the pale winter light and the forest shore. A short safety briefing comes first, and the guide stays close throughout. The season depends on ice thickness, so it typically runs from December to March or April, and operators in early November may run lake floats without ice, so check which version you are booking.
Think of ice floating as a short, strange and rather peaceful experience rather than an extreme sport. The suit does the work, and most people are surprised at how comfortable they are, even at sub-zero air temperatures. You float in the water for 20 to 30 minutes, the guide takes photographs, and afterward there is usually a hot drink or snack and a chance to warm up. The hardest part is putting the suit on and off, and guides help with that.
Who it suits: most adults of reasonable fitness, including non-swimmers, because the suit keeps you afloat. Age and health limits apply, and operators will ask you about heart conditions, pregnancy and mobility. Wear warm, dry clothing under the suit, bring a change of socks and underwear, and ask about a hot tent or sauna afterward. It is not suitable for anyone who is very claustrophobic, since the suit is snug at the neck and wrists, or who finds cold water frightening.
Book for December to March if you want real ice, and expect operators to adjust plans if the lake is not ready. Evening tours that combine floating with an aurora watch carry the same cloud risk as any Northern Lights hunt, so choose the one that fits your priorities. It pairs naturally with a husky ride or a reindeer safari earlier in the day, and with a sauna at your hotel afterward. Capture the moment with the guide's photos, because phones and cameras should stay on the shore.
What to expect
The experience
A safety briefing, a drysuit fitting and a guided float in a lake opening, with photographs and a hot drink afterwards.
Best time
December to March, when the lake ice is thick; evening tours can add aurora chances.
How long
Two to three hours including suit fitting and warming up.
Tips
Wear warm dry clothing underneath, bring spare socks, tell the guide about medical conditions and leave phones on shore.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adventurous adults and non-swimmers who want something unusual.
- Families
- Age limits apply, so check before you book.
- Couples
- A shared, quirky experience, especially on an evening trip with aurora potential.
- Pair with
- A Northern Lights hunt, or a sauna back at your hotel.
- Time needed
- A half day or an evening.
Good questions
When does ice floating run?+
It typically runs from December to March or April, once the lake ice is thick enough. In early November operators may run floats without ice, so check the product details.
Do I need to swim?+
No, the drysuit keeps you afloat and dry. You lie back and float.
Will I be cold?+
Most people stay comfortable in the suit, though face and hands are exposed. Wear warm dry layers underneath and warm up with a hot drink afterward.
Who should not do it?+
People with certain heart conditions, pregnancy, mobility issues or strong claustrophobia may be advised against it. Ask the operator before booking.
Can I take photos?+
Phones and cameras stay on shore for safety, but guides normally take photographs for you.