Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Floating in Survival Suit

Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Floating in Survival Suit — An Unforgettable Arctic Adventure

If you’re heading to Tromsø and craving a truly unique way to experience the Arctic, the Floating in Survival Suit tour on the Barents Sea offers a blend of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic local charm. This activity involves donning a premium neoprene survival suit and floating in icy waters, guided by knowledgeable locals, with the chance to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if timing aligns. With a stellar 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 249 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this adventure worth every krona.

What I find particularly appealing are two things: first, how safe and accessible it is even for those who can’t swim, thanks to the suits designed to keep you afloat effortlessly. Second, the warmth of the post-activity Norwegian waffles and hot drinks, making the cold water experience surprisingly cozy. A potential concern is that water can sometimes sneak into the suits if you’re especially active, so packing a change of clothes is a smart move. But overall, the feeling of floating in icy waters with guides ensuring your safety is hard to beat for its raw authenticity and fun.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Accessible Cold Water Experience: No swimming skills required—the suits keep you floating and warm.
• Expert Guidance: Friendly guides like Fabrizio, Raul, and Carl make safety and fun their priorities.
• Spectacular Scenery: Floating amidst Arctic fjords offers stunning views, especially with a chance to see the Northern Lights.
• Authentic Norwegian Touch: Post-swim waffles and hot drinks add a true local flavor to the adventure.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Practical Tips: Bring dry clothes and layers, as sometimes water seeps in during active moments.

An In-Depth Look at the Tromsø Arctic Fjord Floating Experience

Starting Point at Magic Ice Bar Tromsø

Your adventure begins right in front of the Magic Ice Bar, a quirky and colorful ice sculpture venue that sets the tone for an Arctic day. It’s convenient and offers a warm meeting spot before you head out into the wilderness. Many reviews mention the friendly, informative guides who are eager to share local insights even on the short drive to Kaldfjord.

The Scenic Drive to Kaldfjord

The 20-minute taxi ride from Tromsø to the fjord is more than just transportation—it’s a mini tour. Your guides often share interesting tidbits about Tromsø’s history and surroundings, adding context to your experience. This is a good time to get excited and ask questions, as the guides are known for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey part of the fun.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Once at Kaldfjord, your guides conduct a 20-minute safety briefing. They explain how the survival suits work, what to expect, and how to stay safe in the cold waters. This session is reassuring, especially if you’re concerned about the cold or the activity itself. Guides like Fabricio are praised for their patience and ability to make everyone feel comfortable, even first-timers.

Floating in the Arctic Waters

The core of the experience is, of course, floating in the icy fjord waters. Thanks to the high-quality neoprene suits, most participants find they stay warm and dry—though water can occasionally seep in if you’re very active, or if you’re wearing glasses. Many reviewers mention how surprisingly relaxing and fun it is, with some even jumping off the jetty or pier into the water. As one noted, “You don’t need to be able to swim at all as the suits basically force you to float.”

Guides like Raul and Maria are attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety while encouraging a sense of adventure. Several reviews, including those from travelers who jumped from the deck, highlight how the guides keep the mood light and fun.

The Fjord Landscape and Northern Lights

Floating amidst the Arctic fjords provides an awe-inspiring backdrop. For those lucky enough to schedule during the evening, there’s a real chance to see the Northern Lights dance overhead—a truly magical moment. Even during daytime or cloudy weather, the scenery alone makes the experience feel otherworldly. Many travelers comment that the view is one they won’t forget, with some noting it’s the highlight of their trip to Tromsø.

Post-Swimming Treats and Souvenirs

After your water adventure, you’ll receive a diploma to celebrate your Arctic feat, along with a towel and free access to photos and videos taken during the tour. This is a thoughtful touch, especially since many reviews mention how much they enjoy reliving the moment through these images. The guides also serve hot tea, coffee, and freshly made Norwegian waffles, which guests rave about. One review mentions how the waffles with brown cheese were a delicious surprise, adding a homely, local touch to the experience.

Drying and Packing Tips

While they do their best to dry the suits afterward, water can sometimes get in, so bringing dry clothes is highly recommended. Travelers have found that changing into dry, warm clothes right after the activity makes the return journey much more comfortable. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to curious travelers seeking an authentic Arctic activity with safe guidance. It’s especially suitable for those who want a memorable challenge without the need for swimming skills, thanks to the suits’ flotation properties. Nature lovers and those chasing the Northern Lights will appreciate the scenic backdrop and chance to see the Aurora. It’s also a great choice for small groups—those who prefer a more personalized, less crowded adventure.

People with mobility issues, back problems, or high blood pressure should consider other options, as the activity involves jumping and floating in cold water with limited mobility assistance. Also, packing extra dry clothes and warm layers under the suit is advisable to stay comfortable after the float.

The Value of This Arctic Activity

At $215 per person for 3.5 hours, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining the thrill of Arctic waters, the beauty of fjord scenery, expert guidance, and cozy Norwegian treats. Many reviewers feel it’s worth the price because of the quality of the guides, the authenticity of the experience, and the unforgettable memories created. The small group size not only ensures safety but also fosters camaraderie, making it feel more like a shared adventure than just a commercial activity.

Compared to other Arctic experiences like husky sledding or aurora tours, this one stands out for its interactive nature and the sense of achievement it delivers. floating in Arctic waters is an activity you can honestly say you’ve done in your lifetime, especially with the added bonus of a diploma.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Bring dry clothes and layers to change into after the float.
• Pack a hat, gloves, and thermal layers under the survival suit for extra warmth.
• Don’t forget your camera or phone; photos and videos are included, and guides are great at capturing the moment.
• Be prepared for some water to seep in, especially if you’re especially active or wearing glasses—contact lenses might be a good idea.
• Schedule your activity during the evening if you want the best chance to see the Northern Lights.
• Book in advance; with limited spots and high demand, securing your place ahead of time is wise.
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed, for a full refund, which offers some flexibility in your planning.

FAQ About the Tromsø Arctic Fjord Floating Tour

Is swimming skills required?
No, you don’t need to swim. The neoprene suits keep you afloat easily, making this activity accessible even for non-swimmers.

What should I wear under the survival suit?
Warm clothing is recommended. Bring layers like thermal underwear, hats, and gloves to stay extra cozy during and after the float.

How long do we stay in the water?
Most participants enjoy about 45 minutes in the fjord, with the total tour lasting around 3.5 hours including transfers, safety briefing, and post-activity treats.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While it depends on weather conditions and the timing of your trip, during evening tours from October to March, there’s a good chance to catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

What if the water gets inside the suit?
Water can occasionally seep in during active moments. Bringing dry clothes to change into afterward is a smart way to stay comfortable.

Is this activity suitable for children or older adults?
It’s generally suitable for those over 77 lbs (35 kg) and up to 70 years old, but not recommended for people with mobility issues, back problems, or high blood pressure.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, survival suit, towels, snacks, warm drinks, safety briefing, photos/videos, and a diploma are all included.

What’s the best time of year for this experience?
Anytime from October to March, especially during the evening, offers the best chance for Northern Lights and a magical setting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility should your plans shift unexpectedly.

In the end, this Arctic fjord floating tour offers a rare mix of adventure, scenery, and local warmth that makes it a standout experience for those eager to do something different in Tromsø. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, conquering icy waters, or simply looking for a story to tell, this activity checks many boxes and leaves you with memories you won’t forget.