Overview
One of Finland's most extraordinary experiences is an icebreaker cruise — sailing a real icebreaker ship through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia, then floating between ice floes in a survival suit.
The experience
Board a genuine icebreaker (such as Sampo from Kemi) and feel the ship crunch through thick sea ice, then step out for a guided ice float in a buoyant dry suit.
Where it is
These cruises run from the Bothnian Bay coast (Kemi area), a few hours from Rovaniemi — best as a planned day or overnight excursion.
From Rovaniemi
Many travellers base in Rovaniemi for the aurora and add an icebreaker cruise as a spectacular extension. Pair with an evening aurora hunt.