Imagine gliding across a frozen lake, surrounded by the majestic walls of Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, Finland. This unique ice-floating experience offers a thrilling way to take in the breathtaking winter landscape of the Finnish Lakeland. Equipped with specialized rescue suits, participants can safely explore the icy terrain and witness the historic 15th-century fortress from a truly exceptional vantage point. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous outdoor activity or a chance to marvel at the region’s natural beauty, this guided tour promises a memorable and one-of-a-kind encounter.
Key Points
- The ice-floating experience takes place in the Finnish Lakeland region near the historic Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna.
- Participants are provided with specialized MAS II rescue suits in various sizes to ensure warmth and safety during the activity.
- The tour is suitable for healthy individuals aged 15-60 who can swim comfortably, with a maximum of 12 participants per group.
- Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but no refunds are provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience.
- The tour typically lasts 1-2 hours, allowing participants to explore the frozen landscape surrounding the Olavinlinna Castle.
What to Expect
Participants can expect to receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability. This private tour allows only group participation.
The experience operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate dress is recommended. Multilingual guides may be available to assist. Participants will use MAS II rescue suits, with various sizes provided to accommodate different body types.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. It’s also not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness.
The activity is suitable for healthy individuals aged 15-60 who can swim. A maximum of 12 participants at a time can join based on the availability of 12 rescue suits in sizes S, M, L, and XL.
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Additional Information
The tour’s suitability is limited for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Participants must also possess moderate physical fitness, as the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.
However, the ice-floating adventure is suitable for healthy individuals between the ages of 15 and 60 who can swim. There are 12 rescue suits available in sizes ranging from small to extra-large, with a maximum participation of 12 persons per group based on suit size.
Multilingual guides may be present, but this isn’t guaranteed. The tour operates in all weather conditions, and appropriate dress is recommended for participants.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation of the ice-floating experience is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Refunds will be processed for eligible cancellations, but there are no refunds for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience.
This cancellation policy applies to all bookings. Customers are advised to review the cancellation terms before booking.
The key points regarding the cancellation policy are:
- Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance for full refund.
- Refunds processed for eligible cancellations.
- No refunds for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience.
Booking Assistance
For any questions or booking assistance, customers can visit the Viator Help Centre. There, they’ll find comprehensive FAQs and access to customer support for further clarification. The product code is 8333P10, which can be referenced for any inquiries.
Service | Details |
---|---|
Booking Issues | Assistance available |
General Questions | Help Centre provided |
Cancellation Terms | Clearly outlined |
The Viator Help Centre is the go-to resource for any issues or concerns related to the ice-floating experience. Customers can rely on the available support to ensure a smooth booking and preparation process.
Review Highlights
Based on the provided [KNOWLEDGE], customers have shared their experiences with the ice-floating activity in Savonlinna.
The tour received an impressive 4.8-star rating from a total of 4 reviews. The feedback highlights both positive experiences and areas for improvement:
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Positive experiences include the well-organized tour, the availability of multi-lingual guides, and the use of high-quality rescue suits.
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Some reviewers noted the challenging physical requirements, while others suggested better accessibility options for those with limited mobility.
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Customers appreciated the unique opportunity to float on the frozen lake against the backdrop of Olavinlinna Castle, despite the unpredictable weather conditions.
Gear and Availability
The ice-floating experience in Savonlinna provides participants with specialized rescue suits to ensure their safety and comfort during the activity.
These MAS II rescue suits come in various sizes, including small, medium, large, and extra-large, to accommodate individuals of different builds. With a maximum of 12 participants at a time, the organizers ensure that each person has access to the appropriate-sized suit.
The gear is designed to keep floaters warm and protected, allowing them to fully enjoy the unique experience of floating on the frozen lake. Participants are advised to dress appropriately for the weather conditions to complement the insulation provided by the rescue suits.
Participant Suitability
The ice-floating experience in Savonlinna caters to a specific audience.
It isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as the activity requires moderate physical fitness.
The tour is suitable for healthy individuals aged 15-60 who can swim.
To participate, participants must meet the following criteria:
- Be able to swim comfortably.
- Be between the ages of 15 and 60.
- Have a moderate level of physical fitness.
This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the unique ice-floating adventure near the Olavinlinna Castle.
Location and Timing
The ice-floating experience takes place in the picturesque town of Savonlinna, located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland region.
This unique activity is centered around the historic Olavinlinna Castle, a 15th-century fortress that serves as the stunning backdrop. The tours operate year-round, though the best time to experience ice-floating is during the winter months when the lakes are frozen.
Participants will don specialized rescue suits and venture out onto the frozen lake, guided by experienced instructors. The tour typically lasts around 1-2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the serene, icy landscape and the chance to try this thrilling winter activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions During the Ice-Floating Experience?
Participants must wear specialized rescue suits to ensure their safety during the ice-floating experience. The tour operator provides suits in various sizes to accommodate different body types, prioritizing participants’ well-being and security on the ice.
How Is the Ice-Floating Activity Monitored and Supervised?
The activity is closely monitored and supervised by experienced guides. They provide safety equipment like rescue suits, ensure participants’ fitness, and maintain a strict headcount to prevent any mishaps during the ice-floating experience.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Personal Flotation Devices?
Participants can’t bring their own personal flotation devices. The tour operator provides specially designed MAS II rescue suits in various sizes to ensure participant safety and compliance with safety requirements for the activity.
Are There Any Restrictions on Food or Drinks During the Activity?
The activity doesn’t have any specific restrictions on food or drinks. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the experience, as long as they’re appropriate for the outdoor setting.
What Happens in Case of an Emergency or Adverse Weather Conditions?
In case of an emergency or adverse weather conditions, rescue suits and trained guides are available to ensure participant safety. The tour operates in all weather, and participants are advised to dress appropriately for the conditions.
Recap
The ice-floating experience near Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna offers a unique and thrilling adventure in the stunning Finnish Lakeland. Participants are equipped with specialized suits, ensuring warmth and safety as they float on the frozen lake, surrounded by the captivating 15th-century fortress. This activity is suitable for ages 15-60 and can be enjoyed year-round, providing an unforgettable opportunity to take in the breathtaking icy landscape.
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