Inari, in the heart of Finnish Lapland, offers some of the most authentic lake cruising experiences in Scandinavia. Its vast Lake Inari, Finland’s third-largest, is dotted with islands, rocky shores, and chances to see Arctic wildlife. That makes it a fantastic place for boat tours—each offering a different slice of wilderness. We especially love the Inari: Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ for its combination of scenic cruising and hands-on outdoor fun, including grilling Finnish sausages over an open fire. Plus, the chance to land on a remote island to build a campfire creates a truly memorable Lapland experience. If you want a more intimate look at the region, the Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide offers personalized storytelling and wildlife spotting in comfort.
For those who want to combine relaxation with local flavors, the Lake Inari: Private Cruise & Grill Experience offers a laid-back outdoor grilling session in a peaceful setting. Meanwhile, avid anglers or anyone interested in a full-day adventure can opt for the Private Fishing Cruise & Wilderness Cooking Day, where catching Arctic fish and preparing a wilderness lunch tops the list. Each of these tours showcases a different facet of Lake Inari’s magic.
Quick Overview
Inari’s boat tours range from guided sightseeing cruises to private fishing adventures and outdoor campfire experiences. For a deep dive into the region’s natural beauty, check out the Inari: Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ. If you’d rather have a tailored, comfortable experience, the Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide is perfect. For a more immersive outdoor experience, the Private Cruise & Grill and the full-day fishing adventure Fishing & Cooking offer different takes on Arctic wilderness exploration.
1. Inari: Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ
This tour is a standout for travelers yearning for an authentic Lapland outdoor experience. It lasts about 3.5 hours and costs $709 for a group of up to five people—making it a good value considering the personalized experience. Starting with a smooth boat ride on Lake Inari, you’ll cruise across Finland’s third-largest lake with a knowledgeable guide who points out islands and shares stories about the region.
The real highlight is landing on a remote island—a peaceful spot surrounded by nature—where you’ll build a campfire and grill traditional Finnish sausages. Expect to brew coffee over an open flame in a soot pot, adding a genuine rustic touch. The boat used is a Yamarin Bow Rider aluminum boat, offering both stability and comfort. Guests consistently praise the chance to connect with nature in a relaxed setting, making it ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting an immersive wilderness outing.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic cruising and hands-on outdoor fun, ideal for those wanting a true taste of Lapland’s wilderness.
$709 per group up to 5
2. Inari: Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide
At number two, this private sightseeing cruise provides a comfortable, intimate way to explore Lake Inari for about three hours at $650 for up to four people. The cruise departs aboard a sheltered, heated cabin boat, which makes it suitable for all weather conditions—important when Arctic weather can be unpredictable.
Your guide, a local with extensive knowledge, leads you to Ukko’s Island, a sacred site with stories passed down through generations. Along the way, you can spot wildlife like reindeer, white-tailed eagles, and possibly even golden eagles soaring overhead. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the boat’s sheltered design means you won’t be exposed to the elements. Many visitors appreciate the storytelling aspect, learning about the region’s history and cultural significance.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and expert insights, this cruise offers an engaging, relaxed way to embrace the Arctic wilderness.
$650 per group up to 4
3. Lake Inari: Private Cruise & Grill Experience
Priced at $880 for a group of four, this tour combines a scenic private boat cruise with a rustic outdoor grilling experience. The cruise takes you through Lake Inari’s beautiful archipelago, stopping at peaceful spots to enjoy nature and wildlife. The highlight is the outdoor grilling—a chance to cook local delicacies over an open fire in a quiet bay, surrounded by Arctic silence.
Led by a local wilderness expert, the trip emphasizes authenticity and tranquility. The guide shares insights into local flora, fauna, and Sami culture, making it much more than just a boat ride. The tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience where they can take their time and truly connect with nature. The ability to relax and enjoy outdoor cooking makes this a favorite for couples or small groups wanting a peaceful Arctic adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an exclusive, laid-back Arctic experience with a strong focus on food, culture, and scenery.
$880 per group up to 4
4. Lake Inari: Private Fishing Cruise & Wilderness Cooking Day
For about 6 hours and $1,004, this full-day adventure is for those who love fishing or want to try it in pristine Arctic waters. It’s a private full-day fishing cruise with top gear, targeting species like trout, grayling, and arctic char. The experience is led by an experienced local guide, ensuring you have the right equipment and tips to maximize your catch.
The tour includes a wilderness cooking session, where you’ll fry your catch over an open fire on a remote island. The boat is equipped with modern, hi-tech fishing gear and a heated cabin that keeps everyone comfortable regardless of weather. Perfect for anglers and non-anglers alike, the full-day format allows plenty of time to explore Lake Inari’s diverse islands and wildlife. Several reviews mention how the guide’s expertise made the fishing accessible for beginners and enjoyable for experienced anglers.
Bottom Line: This is the ultimate combined fishing and wilderness experience, offering plenty of time to relax, fish, and cook in Arctic solitude.
$1,004 per group up to 4
How to Choose
When selecting the right boat tour in Inari, consider your budget, interests, and preferred activity level. If you want an authentic outdoor experience with hands-on activities, the Inari: Lake Inari Boat Tour with Campfire and BBQ is a great pick. For those craving personalized insights and comfort, the Private Lake Inari Sightseeing Cruise with Guide suits well.
If outdoor cooking and peaceful scenery are your priorities, the Private Cruise & Grill offers a relaxed setting, while the Fishing & Wilderness Cooking Day combines sport with culinary adventure. Think about your physical activity level and weather preferences—some tours involve more hands-on outdoor activity, while others lean toward comfort and storytelling.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months or during the Midnight Sun, to secure your preferred date and ensure an authentic Arctic experience.
Final Thoughts
Inari’s boat tours showcase the stunning beauty of Finnish Lapland from different angles—whether through scenic cruises, fishing expeditions, or outdoor cookouts. For a quick, immersive outdoor adventure, the Campfire & BBQ tour is hard to beat. If privacy and personalized storytelling matter most, the sightseeing cruise is ideal. And for those seeking a full-day adventure with fishing and wilderness cooking, the last option delivers lasting memories.
Whatever your interests, Inari’s waters promise genuine Arctic moments. Be sure to book early, as these experiences are popular with travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in Lapland.