Tromsø: Fjord and Floating Safari, Arctic Floating

Venturing into Tromsø’s breathtaking fjords with an electric vehicle might seem like just a scenic drive, but this tour offers so much more. Starting from the heart of Tromsø, you’ll cruise through surrounding fjords in a quiet, emission-free Mercedes eVito, then swap the land for the Arctic Ocean — swimming in the icy water while donned in a sturdy rescue suit. The whole experience lasts about 3.5 hours, blending scenery, culture, and a dash of adrenaline.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s fully electric, so you won’t be polluting the pristine environment you’re exploring. Second, the floating swim — a highlight for many — is conducted in sheltered waters based on weather, ensuring safety and comfort. We also love the authentic Norwegian beach activities around a campfire, which add a warm, social touch to the adventure.

A possible consideration? The tour is not suitable for children under 8, or those under 4 ft 3 in or over 331 lbs. Plus, the floating part involves wearing a rescue suit and swimming in cold water, which might not appeal to everyone. But for travelers eager to combine scenic beauty with a dash of daring, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits adventure-loving travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s perfect for those curious about Arctic waters, who enjoy outdoor fun, and who value small-group intimacy. If you’re after a memorable, active day in Norway’s Arctic landscape, this tour offers a compelling mix.

Key Points

Eco-friendly transport in a fully electric Mercedes van minimizes environmental impact while exploring scenic fjords.
Swimming in Arctic waters with a rescue suit provides a safe, exhilarating experience, often highlighted as a memorable highlight.
Authentic Norwegian beach activities like fire-building and grilling add a convivial, cultural layer.
Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures personalized attention and better opportunities for authentic interactions.
The flexible route based on weather allows for a tailored experience, making each trip unique.
Guided by knowledgeable, friendly English-speaking hosts, you’ll feel well cared for and informed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at the Søndre Tollbodgate 11B, a convenient central location near Tromsø’s Polar Museum. Here, your small group gathers, and from there, it’s a short 30-minute drive on an electric Mercedes eVito out to Kvaløya. The quiet, emission-free ride is a nice way to kick off, giving you a peaceful introduction to the Arctic environment before the adventure really begins.

The electric vehicle isn’t just an eco-choice—it’s also a comfortable way to enjoy the scenic drive. Expect smooth, quiet transportation that keeps you focused on the stunning surroundings rather than engine noise or fumes.

Exploring Tromsø’s Fjords

Once on Kvaløya, the tour guides select the best fjord based on the day’s weather conditions. This flexibility is key in the Arctic, where weather can change quickly, and it ensures a safer, calmer floating experience. You’ll get a guided tour of the area, with opportunities to learn about local geography, wildlife, and traditional Norwegian coastal culture.

Floating in the Arctic Ocean

The real thrill happens when you don your immersion rescue suit and float in the Arctic Ocean. Despite the chilly water, many travelers describe this as surprisingly comfortable, thanks to the high-quality suits provided. Several reviews mention how relaxing and fun the experience is, with some even calling it “super fun and cute.” The guides are attentive, checking in to ensure everyone is comfortable and safe.

Floating requires no swimming skills — just wearing the suit and relaxing, which most non-swimmers found manageable. You’ll be in sheltered waters, chosen for safety and calmness, making it accessible even for those new to cold-water swimming.

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Norwegian Beach Activities

Post-swim, the group gathers around a campfire. Here, you’ll learn how to build a fire and cook fish burgers over open flames — a classic Norwegian pastime. Many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed this part, describing it as authentic and hearty. The fire creates a warm, convivial atmosphere, perfect for swapping stories and savoring local snacks.

Additional activities include trying out playful beach games typical of Norwegian traditions, adding a lighthearted, fun element to the day. Many travelers find this part surprisingly engaging, feeling like a genuine taste of Norwegian coastal life.

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Scenic Stops and Sightseeing

Between activities, your guides take you to picturesque spots — reindeer sightings, cloudberry foraging, and stunning fjord views. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to maximize scenic beauty while allowing for breaks, photos, and leisurely exploration.

Returning and Certificates

The tour concludes back at the starting point after about 3.5 hours. As a keepsake, you’ll receive an Arctic Ocean Floaters Club Certificate, commemorating your daring swim — a fun, tangible memento of this one-of-a-kind experience.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Your fee covers top-quality rescue suits, warm or cold beverages, and guidance from experienced, English-speaking hosts. You also get the certification and an authentic Norwegian experience involving fire-building and local snacks.

The tour is small group, limited to 8 participants, which fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere. The itinerary is flexible, adjusting to weather conditions to ensure safety and comfort, which means that while the general flow remains the same, specific locations may vary slightly day-to-day.

Practical Considerations

Travelers should bring weather-appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Since swimming in the Arctic involves immersion, comfortable, quick-drying clothes are recommended for after the float.

Accessibility is a consideration: while efforts are made to accommodate everyone, the van isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the floating activity isn’t suitable for children under 8, or those under 4 ft 3 in. People over 331 lbs might also find the suits less suitable.

Non-swimmers are welcome, and guides will help ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed on the vehicle, and diving is not permitted, in keeping with safety regulations.

Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Say

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Tory describes the adventure as “excellent,” noting how Matthieu was accommodating and even spotted a curious seal. Marianne enjoyed the relaxing float and the fire-pit snacks even on a rainy day. Laura appreciated the friendly host and the chance to float as long as she wanted, combined with reindeer and cloudberry sightings.

Neha mentions how the guides carefully chose weather-appropriate spots and checked in multiple times, making the experience memorable and safe. Lucy sums it up as “super fun” and “very pretty,” emphasizing the value of the guided experience and the beautiful scenery.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Tromsø adventure is best suited for adventure seekers who want a blend of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and aquatic fun. It’s ideal if you’re curious about Arctic waters, enjoy outdoor activities, and appreciate the personalized touch of a small-group experience. The floating swim, combined with the cozy campfire and scenic stops, offers a well-rounded day that’s both active and relaxed.

If you’re looking for a unique Arctic memory that combines environmental consciousness, local traditions, and a splash of daring, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing if you wish to see the fjords from the water, experience Norwegian beach life, and earn a fun certificate to commemorate your Arctic swim.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers are welcome as swimming skills are not mandatory. You will wear a rescue suit and float in sheltered waters, guided by professionals.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Expect to be outdoors for parts of the tour, so layers, waterproof gear, and quick-drying clothes are advisable.

How long does the floating experience last?
The floating in the Arctic Ocean generally lasts around an hour, with additional time allocated for the scenic drives, stops, and campfire activities.

Are children under 8 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, mainly due to safety and activity restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
The guides are flexible and will choose sheltered locations for floating, so the experience can adapt to weather conditions. Safety is the priority.

Can I participate if I have accessibility needs?
While the tour aims to be inclusive, the van is not equipped with a wheelchair ramp, so please contact the provider beforehand if you have specific accessibility questions.

How much does the tour cost?
Pricing details aren’t specified here, but considering the small group size, high-quality equipment, and included activities, it offers good value for an Arctic adventure.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

In a nutshell, this tour offers a rare chance to experience Tromsø’s fjords and Arctic Ocean in a sustainable, authentic way. With friendly guides, scenic stops, and the thrill of Arctic swimming, it’s a memorable choice for travelers eager to combine nature, culture, and a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: