Tromsø: Fjord and Floating Safari, Arctic Floating

Exploring Tromsø’s Fjord and Floating Safari: A Refreshing Arctic Adventure

This Tromsø experience offers more than just a quick scenic drive. It combines eco-friendly transport, stunning fjord views, and a daring swim in the Arctic Ocean, all wrapped into a 3.5-hour adventure. Using a fully electric Mercedes eVito, it’s a tour that appeals to eco-conscious travelers eager to see Norway’s Arctic wilderness while minimizing environmental impact.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the floating element—swimming in the Arctic Ocean while wearing a specially designed rescue suit—feels like a rare, authentic Arctic challenge. Second, the small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, with guides like Matthieu going out of their way to find the best spots and keep everyone comfortable.

A potential downside? The tour’s flexibility means exact locations can shift depending on weather, so planning for a bit of unpredictability is wise. If you’re expecting a highly structured itinerary, this might be a slight surprise, but it’s a small price for the chance to float safely in calm waters or enjoy a cozy fire with local snacks afterward.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Eco-Friendly Transportation: Travel in a fully electric Mercedes eVito that reduces your carbon footprint while exploring Norway’s fjords.
• Unique Floating Experience: Swim in the Arctic Ocean wearing a top-quality rescue suit, a highlight for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers.
• Authentic Norwegian Beach Day: Build a bonfire, cook fish burgers, and enjoy local snacks on the shoreline—true local flavor.
• Expert Guides: Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Matthieu, who tailor the experience based on weather and safety.
• Flexible Locations: The exact spots for floating and swimming may change due to weather, but always in sheltered, calm fjords.
• Certificate and Fun: Earn your Arctic Ocean Floaters Club certificate—adding a memorable keepsake to your Arctic journey.

Entering the Arctic Wilderness: The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the modest but convenient Søndre Tollbodgate 11B, just outside Tromsø’s Polar Museum. It’s a simple, accessible meeting point that sets the tone for a relaxed adventure. From there, you board the electric Mercedes van for a roughly 30-minute drive toward Kvaløya, a scenic island known for its stunning fjords and wildlife.

This drive is more than just transportation; it offers a chance to appreciate the Arctic landscape and get briefing from guides about what’s ahead. The highlight is the guided stop on Kvaløya, where you’ll spend about an hour floating in the Arctic Ocean. Here, your guide will select the safest, most sheltered spot based on current weather conditions—an essential approach given Norway’s unpredictable Arctic weather.

Many reviews praise how guides like Matthieu read the weather well, ensuring safety and comfort. Tory notes, “Matthieu was very accommodating and found a spot with a restroom available,” emphasizing the importance of a responsible guide. The floating experience is described as “relaxing,” with Marianne appreciating the combination of floating and the cozy fire pit, where snacks like fish burgers are cooked on open flames.

Post-float, there’s a break for about an hour, where you can enjoy hot or cold beverages, local snacks, and even participate in playful Norwegian beach activities—adding a fun, lighthearted element that makes the day feel more like a traditional outdoor adventure than just a tour.

The return drive is about 30 minutes, looping back to the meeting point. Guides often include extra surprises like reindeer sightings or berry picking—details that enrich the sense of authenticity and connection with the Arctic environment.

What to Expect During Your Arctic Float and Fjord Drive

Starting Point and Transportation: The tour begins at a modest city location, where you’ll hop into a quiet, emission-free van. The drive to Kvaløya is scenic, with views of rugged coastline and looming mountains. The electric vehicle not only enhances sustainability but also adds a modern touch to your Arctic exploration.

Kvaløya Guided Stop: Here, you’ll get outfitted with a high-quality rescue suit. The suits are designed to keep you warm and dry, even in icy waters, making swimming in the Arctic Ocean feel safer and more comfortable than you might expect. Guides like Matthieu are attentive, explaining the safety procedures and helping those who may be nervous.

Floating and Swimming: The core of the experience. Many reviewers highlight how floating in the fjord is surprisingly peaceful and relaxing. You don’t need swimming skills—non-swimmers are welcome—and the calm waters often allow even the most hesitant to enjoy the moment. As Marianne puts it, “It was relaxing floating in the fjord, and the fire pit and fish burgers made it a truly Norwegian experience.”

Post-Float Break and Local Snacks: After floating, you’ll gather around a bonfire to enjoy hot drinks, snacks, and Norwegian treats. This makes the adventure more social and cozy, especially if the weather is rainy or windy—something that the guides adapt to, as Tory mentions.

Additional Activities and Sightseeing: The tour isn’t just about floating. Guides often include stops where you might see reindeer or pick cloudberries, adding to the sense of authentic Northern Norway. These extras are highly praised for making the trip feel personalized and memorable.

The Value of This Arctic Experience

For the price, this tour offers a lot. The combination of scenic fjord drives, floating in the Arctic Ocean, and local cultural activities provides a well-rounded, immersive Arctic outing. The inclusion of guidance, high-quality rescue suits, and a certificate boosts the value further—turning a simple trip into a memorable achievement.

Compared to other Tromsø tours, which might focus solely on land sightseeing or boat cruises, this experience’s interactive nature sets it apart. Floating in Arctic waters is not something you find every day, and the chance to do so safely, with gear and guidance, makes it a worthwhile addition to your Arctic itinerary.

It’s best suited for adventurers who aren’t afraid to get a little wet and enjoy nature in its rawest form. The experience is especially appealing to those who want a personalized, small-group outing that avoids the crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour

• Adventure Seekers: If you want a thrilling, hands-on Arctic experience, floating and swimming in the Arctic Ocean is hard to beat.
• Eco-Conscious Travelers: The electric vehicle transport aligns with sustainable tourism values.
• Nature and Wildlife Lovers: The chance to see reindeer or cloudberries adds to the authentic Norwegian nature experience.
• Relaxed Explorers: The combination of scenic drives, floating, and cozy fires makes for a laid-back, memorable day.
• Those Looking for Personal Attention: Small group size means guides can tailor the experience and give personalized tips.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re under 8 years old, over 150 kg, or less than 4 ft 3 in—these restrictions are for safety reasons, and accessibility may be limited.

FAQ for Arctic Fjord and Floating Safari

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. Non-swimmers are welcome since swimming skills are not mandatory. The rescue suit and calm waters help make floating accessible and safe.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, and consider layering since you’ll be outside for some time. The tour provides rescue suits, but warm layers underneath are recommended.

How flexible are locations?
Exact spots for floating and swimming can change based on weather conditions to ensure safety. Guides like Matthieu know how to find calm, sheltered waters no matter what.

Can I participate if I have accessibility needs?
While the van isn’t wheelchair accessible, guides will try to accommodate everyone. Contact the provider in advance with specific questions.

How long does the floating part last?
The guided floating and swimming segment lasts about an hour, depending on weather and safety considerations.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Yes. The tour is not suitable for children under 8, those under 4 ft 3 in, or over 331 lbs (150 kg). These rules help ensure safety for all participants.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the rescue suit, guidance, beverages, local snacks, and a certificate. Extra activities like reindeer sightings are optional.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Fjord and Floating Safari in Tromsø offers a truly unique way to experience the Arctic. It combines scenic drives, a daring swim in the Arctic Ocean, and cozy moments around a fire with local snacks. The small group format and expert guidance ensure a safe, personalized, and authentic Arctic adventure.

If you’re someone who loves natural beauty, isn’t afraid of a splash, and appreciates sustainable travel, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing for those who want to tick off a memorable Arctic activity—swimming in the Arctic Ocean—while enjoying Norway’s stunning fjord landscapes.

In the end, it’s a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery that will leave you with stories to tell and a sense of achievement. Just be prepared for some variability in weather and locations, and you’ll find this tour offers a truly refreshing angle on Arctic exploration.

Summary

This Tromsø Fjord and Floating Safari provides a rare blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and aquatic adventure, all with a focus on safety and sustainability. The small-group setting and guided approach make it a winner for travelers seeking intimacy and authenticity. Whether you’re floating in calm fjord waters, building a fire on the beach, or sharing snacks with new friends, this experience promises a memorable, genuine Arctic day.