Polar Explorer Icebreaker Aurora Glow Dinner Cruise

Polar Explorer Icebreaker Aurora Glow Dinner Cruise
Location: Lapland, Finland
Price: $393 per person
Supplier: Polar Explorer Icebreaker
Duration: Approximately 3 hours

Few experiences evoke the spirit of winter like sailing through the icy waters aboard a real icebreaker in search of the northern lights. This Aurora Glow Dinner Cruise takes you from Swedish Lapland, just a short drive from the Finnish border, into the heart of Arctic adventure. For around $393 per person, you’ll get a mix of fun, education, and awe-inspiring scenery—perfect for those craving a taste of true wilderness and the possibility of catching the elusive aurora borealis.

What we really like about this experience is the engaging combination of activities: a disco on ice that kicks off the night with lively music and vibrant lights, and the chance to walk on thick Arctic ice under the starry sky—an unforgettable moment for anyone who’s ever wondered what it feels like to stand on frozen seas. Plus, the optional ice swimming in survival suits offers an adrenaline rush and a real sense of accomplishment, if you’re feeling brave.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the northern lights are not guaranteed. Cloud cover or weather conditions can sometimes obscure the sky, so don’t rely solely on expecting a perfect show. It’s best to be prepared for a memorable trip regardless of whether you see the aurora or not.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and spectacular scenery. If you’re curious about icebreakers, love winter activities, or want a unique way to chase the northern lights, this cruise offers a well-rounded Arctic experience that balances fun, education, and natural beauty.

Key Points

Authentic Arctic Adventure: Sail on a real icebreaker in the icy waters of the Bothnian Sea.
Multiple Activities: Enjoy a lively ice disco, walk on frozen sea, and try ice swimming in survival suits.
Educational Insight: Explore seven decks with an audio guide in 15 languages and watch an informative film.
Northern Lights Chance: While not guaranteed, the deck offers a prime spot to view the aurora borealis.
Family Friendly: Suitable for most, but avoid if you have mobility issues or are uncomfortable in extreme cold.
Includes Certificate: Receive a signed certificate commemorating your Arctic journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the Aurora Glow Dinner Cruise

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Setting the Scene: The Arctic Night in Lapland

Imagine stepping aboard a massive icebreaker, a vessel designed to crush through thick sea ice, now transformed into a floating Arctic playground. The journey begins in Swedish Lapland, only 40 km from Finland, making it accessible from much of the region. You’ll board with a sense of anticipation, knowing this isn’t your run-of-the-mill boat tour but a full-blown Arctic expedition.

The start of the cruise is lively, with a disco on ice that immediately sets a festive tone. Music pulses through the chilly night air as vibrant lights cast an otherworldly glow across the snow and ice. This scene captures the magic of Lapland—party and wilderness combined. It’s a chance to dance and laugh with fellow travelers before heading into the more contemplative parts of the journey.

The Icebreaker Experience: Exploring the Seven Decks

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to explore seven decks of the vessel, each offering something unique. An audio guide available in 15 languages ensures everyone gets a good understanding of the icebreaker’s history, engineering, and significance in Arctic navigation. We loved how accessible and informative this part was; it felt like a mini-museum tour at sea.

For those curious about the machinery, the short film in the onboard cinema showcases icebreakers around the world, highlighting their critical role in polar expeditions and shipping. It adds depth to the experience, especially for history buffs or engineering enthusiasts.

Walking on the Frozen Sea: A Moment of Arctic Serenity

Perhaps the most striking part of the cruise is the walk on the frozen sea. Once the ship anchors, you’re invited to step onto the ice—thick, crunchy, and pristine—surrounded by silence and the vast Arctic sky. The calm is almost meditative, and it’s easy to feel connected to nature in this quiet, frozen landscape. The sense of standing on the edge of the world is palpable, and many travelers find this moment genuinely humbling.

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Thrills and Chills: Ice Swimming

For the more daring, ice swimming in survival suits offers an adrenaline boost. You’ll don a thermal flotation suit, enter the icy water, and float safely amidst the cold. Reviewers have said it’s a “thrilling” activity that pushes comfort zones but leaves you with a sense of achievement. Safety is prioritized, but weather conditions can affect availability, so it might be canceled if deemed unsafe.

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Northern Lights: A Hopeful Glimpse

While the northern lights cannot be guaranteed, the deck’s open space and minimal light pollution make it one of the better spots to see the aurora if conditions cooperate. Some travelers have reported glimpses of shimmering green ribbons dancing across the sky, adding a mystical element to the evening. Even if the lights stay elusive, the beauty of the Arctic night sky alone is enough to make the trip worthwhile.

Final Touch: Certificate of Arctic Adventure

The cruise concludes with a signed certificate from the captain, a fun keepsake to remember your Arctic journey. It’s a small detail but adds to the sense of occasion and achievement.

Practical Considerations

Price and Value

At $393 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive Arctic experience that combines entertainment, education, and adventure. While it doesn’t include dinner, the activities—ice walking, swimming, exploring the decks, and hopefully viewing the northern lights—justify the price for many travelers seeking a unique Arctic memory. The inclusion of a guide, short film, and certificate adds value.

What to Bring

Dress warmly—think layers, thermal underwear, insulated shoes, hats, and gloves. The tour is outdoors in cold weather, and winter gear is essential. Bring your passport or ID, as well as any personal items you might need for comfort.

Accessibility and Group Size

This experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, mainly because of the cold environment and walking on ice. Group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring everyone can enjoy the activities comfortably.

Flexibility and Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering some flexibility in travel plans. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easier to plan without risk.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy unique outdoor activities and are curious about the Arctic environment. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of fun, learning, and the chance to see the northern lights in a spectacular setting. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable winter experience will find plenty to love here.

If you’re a history or engineering buff, the detailed deck exploration and short films will add to your appreciation. For photographers, the chance to capture the icy landscape and potentially the aurora makes this a prime outing.

However, if you’re seeking a relaxed, indoor holiday, or you have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. Also, remember that northern lights sightings depend on weather, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the package.

Final Words

This Polar Explorer Icebreaker Aurora Glow Dinner Cruise offers an engaging way to experience Lapland’s icy wilderness firsthand. It blends adventure, education, and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights, all aboard a real icebreaker vessel. The activities are diverse enough to appeal to various interests, from the lively disco to the tranquil ice walk, and the optional ice swimming adds a dash of daring.

While it’s not a guarantee of seeing the aurora, the experience itself—standing on a frozen sea, exploring the decks of a working icebreaker, and feeling the Arctic cold—creates memories that are hard to beat. It’s a fine choice for those looking to tick off a bucket list item in one of Europe’s most enchanting winter landscapes.

FAQ

Is dinner included in the tour?
No, dinner is available for purchase, but it is not included in the price. You can enjoy snacks or meals separately.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for activities and exploration without feeling rushed.

What is the starting point for the tour?
The activity begins at the departure terminal in Swedish Lapland, which is easily accessible and has free parking.

Can I see the northern lights from the boat?
While the northern lights are not guaranteed, the boat offers a good vantage point, and the chances are improved if the weather is clear.

Is ice swimming safe?
Yes, it is conducted in thermal flotation suits and under supervision, but weather conditions may cancel this activity for safety reasons.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—thermal layers, insulated shoes, hats, and gloves are recommended, as you will be outside in cold Arctic temperatures.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to outdoor environments and icy terrain.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, if you’re after a lively, memorable Arctic experience that combines adventure, education, and the chance to see the northern lights, this cruise offers a worthwhile journey. It’s best for travelers craving something more active and unique than a traditional sightseeing tour—an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter wonderland.