Arctic Float

Step into the polar night and experience it with all your senses.

The Arctic Float is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Svalbard’s winter landscape. Dressed in an immersion suit that keeps you warm and dry, you will enter the Arctic Ocean and let the water carry you.

As you lean back and begin to float, there is no effort. The mountains rise beneath a layer of snow, the shoreline is frozen, and above you, the Arctic sky stretches endlessly into the darkness. And who knows - if the skies are clear and we are lucky, the Northern Lights may even make an appearance.

From the surface, you gaze towards the distant lights of Longyearbyen - a small town at the edge of the world. There is nothing you need to do. 

You can float in many places across the Arctic, but floating in Svalbard is something truly special. Some days are calm and still. On others, waves roll in and the wind howls around you. Do not always expect calm water but prepare for a raw Arctic experience that you will late forget.

The Arctic Float is a perfect contrast to Svalbard's more active adventures. Whether you have spent the day snowmobiling, dog sledding or exploring an ice cave, this experience offers a chance to slow down, connect with nature and fully embrace the Arctic environment.

After the floating experience, you are welcome in to our cosy boathouse by the beach, where you can warm up with hot drinks and enjoy traditional Norwegian waffles. This is your chance to try the Norwegian brown cheese while listening to stories from Svalbard. A warm and cosy ending to a truly unique experience.

Difficulty: 2/5
Group size: 2–6 participants
Duration: 2 hours, expected time in the water: approximately 20 minutes
Minimum age: 14 years. Please also review the physical requirements below
Language: English is required

Physical Requirements

• You should feel comfortable being in water
• Not recommended if you are pregnant or have a heart condition
• Not recommended if you are claustrophobic as the suit fits tightly around your face and neck
• You must fit one of our immersion suits. Please check the measurements below before booking:

       Height: 140cm - 200cm
      Body circumference: max. 130 cm

Included

• The trip runs from 15:00 – 17:00, hotel pick-up and drop-off is included
• Professional guide and all necessary safety equipment
• Immersion suit designed for Arctic conditions
• Hot drinks and Norwegian waffles

If you would prefer to be dropped off at SvalBad Sauna afterwards instead of at your hotel, we are happy to arrange this.

Please bring

• Warm base layers, preferably wool (trousers and shirt)
• A thick wool or fleece sweater
• Woolen socks, plus a second, larger pair to wear on top
• A warm beanie for after the activity

Looking for a full day of Arctic adventure? Join our Cross-Country Ski Trip or our Seed Vault Hike in the morning, and come back for our Arctic Float in the afternoon 😊

Important information

The Polar Night lasts from 14th of November to 29th of January. On departures earlier or later in the season, the light conditions may therefore differ from those described. 

The activity is subject to the weather and sea conditions on the day of departure. If the conditions are not considered safe, you will be offered the option to reschedule for another day, if possible, or receive a full refund.