Venturing into the frozen wilderness of Finnish Lapland, the Kemi Icebreaker Sampo Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the enchanting landscapes of the Bothnian Bay. Priced at €378 per person, this 6-hour excursion combines a guided tour of the mighty icebreaker, a thrilling ice floating experience, and a sumptuous buffet showcasing traditional Finnish cuisine. With convenient hotel pickups and a focus on small groups, participants are immersed in a winter wonderland, where the beauty of the frozen seascape is matched only by the unique activities that await. But what truly sets this adventure apart is the chance to…

Overview and Pricing

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - Overview and Pricing

The Icebreaker Sampo Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the frozen landscapes of Finnish Lapland, with prices starting from €378.00 per person for the 6-hour excursion.

This immersive activity takes place in Kemi, inviting adventurers to embark on a journey through the icy Bothnian Bay.

The cruise includes a guided tour of the icebreaker ship, from the captain’s bridge to the control room, as well as the chance to try ice floating in survival suits.

Participants will also enjoy a welcome drink and buffet lunch on board.

The experience is available on a reserve now, pay later basis, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Locations and Transportation

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - Starting Locations and Transportation

Pick-up locations for the Icebreaker Sampo Cruise include Kemin Rautatieasema, Scandic Kemi, Kemin LumiLinna, and Hotelli Merihovi, with a 15-minute bus/coach transfer provided from Kemi to the port. The cruise schedule begins with pick-up times from these Kemi hotels and the railway station, followed by check-in for the cruise and a visit to SnowExperience365. The Icebreaker cruise itself lasts from 13:30 to 17:30, with drop-off at the original pick-up locations at the end.

Starting Location Transfer Time
Kemin Rautatieasema 15 minutes
Scandic Kemi 15 minutes
Kemin LumiLinna 15 minutes
Hotelli Merihovi 15 minutes
Port

Icebreaker Cruise Itinerary

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - Icebreaker Cruise Itinerary

Once guests have been transported to the port, they’ll embark on the Icebreaker Sampo cruise, seeing a captivating 4-hour journey across the frozen Bothnian Bay.

The cruise begins at 1:30 pm, with a guided tour that takes passengers from the captain’s bridge to the control room, providing an insider’s perspective on the icebreaker’s operations.

Guests will then have the opportunity to don survival suits and experience the thrill of ice floating, surrounded by the serene landscape of ice and snow.

During the cruise, a delectable lunch buffet will be served, allowing travelers to refuel and savor the unique flavors of Finnish Lapland.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at the original pick-up locations, leaving guests with unforgettable memories of their icebreaker adventure.

Buffet and Activities Onboard

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - Buffet and Activities Onboard

Guests aboard the Icebreaker Sampo cruise can look forward to a delectable lunch buffet, which features a selection of traditional Finnish dishes and local specialties, providing them an opportunity to savor the flavors of the region.

Along With the scrumptious fare, the cruise offers a variety of captivating activities that immerse guests in the icy wonderland. Passengers can:

  • Explore the Sampo icebreaker from the captain’s bridge to the control room, gaining an insider’s perspective on its operations.

  • Experience the exhilaration of ice floating, donning survival suits and venturing out onto the frozen sea.

  • Discover the unique SnowExperience365 exhibition, offering insights into the area’s snow and ice-related wonders.

  • Visit the enchanting SnowCastle Winter Park, a true winter wonderland.

Survival Suit Ice Floating

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - Survival Suit Ice Floating

Donning their survival suits, guests embark on an exhilarating ice floating experience, venturing out onto the frozen Bothnian Bay to enjoy the icy landscape. Guided by experienced instructors, they learn how to float effortlessly on the icy waters, marveling at the serene beauty that surrounds them. The chilly yet invigorating sensation of the ice against their skin heightens their senses, as they connect with the natural wonders of the Finnish Lapland. This thrilling activity not only offers a unique adventure but also a chance to challenge oneself and appreciate the resilience of the human spirit in the face of nature’s grandeur.

Survival Suit Features Floating Techniques Safety Measures
Waterproof and insulated Controlled buoyancy Instructor supervision
Easy mobility Body positioning Emergency equipment
Bright colors for visibility Breathing techniques Communication protocols
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SnowExperience365 and Attractions

Kemi: Icebreaker Sampo Cruise With Buffet and Ice Floating - SnowExperience365 and Attractions

The SnowExperience365 center serves as a captivating prelude to the icebreaker cruise, offering visitors a multisensory introduction to the region’s snowy wonders.

After the cruise, guests can explore this interactive winter wonderland, which features:

  • A breathtaking SnowCastle Winter Park, where intricate ice sculptures and snow structures create a magical atmosphere.

  • A mesmerizing Gemstone exhibition, showcasing the diverse array of precious stones found in the Finnish Lapland.

  • Hands-on snow and ice-related activities, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the winter experience.

  • Informative exhibits that educate guests about the unique ecosystem and wildlife of the Bothnian Bay region.

This engaging attraction sets the stage for the unforgettable icebreaker adventure that lies ahead.

Participant Requirements

Participants must be at least 4 years old to join the icebreaker cruise, with specific age groups catering to adults, children, and infants.

Those in wheelchairs won’t be able to fully partake in the activities, as the experience isn’t designed for their accessibility.

Guests are advised to wear warm clothing, as the temperatures can be quite chilly on the frozen sea. A change of clothes is also recommended, as the ice floating portion of the tour may result in getting wet.

The tour is suited for adventurous travelers who want to enjoy the unique winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland.

Customer Feedback and Rating

Based on reviews, travelers enthusiastically praised the icebreaker cruise, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars overall.

Small group sizes and friendly staff contributed to overwhelmingly positive experiences, with highlights like:

  • Swimming in survival suits

  • Walking on the frozen sea

  • Exploring the captain’s bridge and control room

  • Admiring the scenic views of ice floating in the Bothnian Bay

However, some reviewers suggested taking more photos during the experience and keeping pace with the tour guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Icebreaker Sampo Cruise?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but customer reviews mention small group experiences. This suggests the tour operator aims to keep groups intimate to provide a personalized experience on the icebreaker cruise.

Does the Cruise Allow for Solo Travelers or Is It Only for Groups?

The Icebreaker Sampo Cruise welcomes solo travelers as well as groups. Participants can book individually and enjoy the guided tour, ice floating, and buffet in a small-group setting according to the tour’s availability and capacity.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?

The cruise offers a buffet that accommodates various dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests with special dietary requirements should notify the operator in advance to ensure their needs are met during the experience.

Can Participants Leave the Icebreaker to Explore the Frozen Sea Independently?

Participants cannot leave the icebreaker to explore the frozen sea independently. The tour includes a guided cruise and ice floating experience, with staff accompanying guests for safety. Independent exploration of the frozen sea is not permitted.

Is the Icebreaker Sampo Cruise Suitable for Those With a Fear of Cold Water?

The icebreaker cruise may not be suitable for those with a strong fear of cold water, as the experience includes ice floating in survival suits. However, the cruise provides safety gear and guidance, which may help alleviate some concerns.

Sum Up

The Kemi Icebreaker Sampo Cruise offers an immersive winter adventure in Finnish Lapland.

With a guided tour, ice floating, and traditional Finnish cuisine, it’s an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the frozen landscapes.

The convenient pick-up and focus on small groups create a personalized journey, allowing participants to fully enjoy the beauty of the Bothnian Bay.

You can check if your dates are available here: