Arctic Float

Polar Night Float at 78° North

Step into the Arctic night and experience a level of calm that is difficult to find anywhere else.

The Arctic Float is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stillness of Svalbard's winter landscape. Dressed in immersion suits that keep you dry and warm, you will enter the Arctic Ocean and let the water carry you.

At first, you notice the cold air, the sound of the water, the vast darkness surrounding you. But as you lean back and begin to float, the world seems to slow down. The mountains stand silent under a layer of snow, the shoreline is frozen, and above you the Arctic sky stretches endlessly into the darkness. And who knows, if we are lucky, even the Northern Lights may make an appearance.

Floating effortlessly on the surface, you can gaze towards the distant lights of Longyearbyen – a small town at the edge of the world at 78 degrees north. There is nothing you need to do. Simply float, breathe and take in the moment.

You can float in many places across the Arctic, but floating in Svalbard is something special. Some days are calm and still and others, you may feel the movement of the waves and hear the wind hauling. An experience either way!

The Arctic Float is a perfect contrast to Svalbard's more active adventures. Whether you have spent the day snowmobiling, dog sledding or inside 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 some typical 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 the water, but swimming ability is not required
• This activity is not recommended if you are pregnant or have a heart condition
• You must fit one of our immersion suits. Please check the measurements below before booking:

       Height:
      Body circumference:

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, enjoy lunch in town, 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.