Let Arctic Helsinki surprise you – these experiences will make you forget you’re in the city

Ever wondered what it’s like to jump into freezing water and drift among the ice – without feeling cold at all? Redrib’s Survival Suit Experience makes that possible.

This 1.5-hour adventure takes place just off central Helsinki, at a location chosen based on ice conditions. Participants wear full-body survival suits designed for maritime rescue situations. These suits can keep a person warm and dry for up to six hours in freezing water, and their built-in flotation system means you don’t even need to be able to swim.

‘We’ve had plenty of non-swimmers take part – some enjoy it so much that it’s hard to get them out of the water,’ says Leimio.

You can hop between ice floes or safely experience what it feels like when the ice breaks beneath you – all under expert supervision. Or you can simply relax, float and take in the calming rhythm of the sea.

Along the way, you’ll also learn about hypothermia, sea rescue and Finland’s national pastime – winter swimming.

If you want to make the most of Arctic Helsinki, the Redrib Ice Experience is one to remember. The adventure begins with hotel pick-up and transfer to Sipoo, around 30 minutes from the city centre – though you can also make your own way there.

Redrib’s hovercraft and steel boat can access the archipelago even when no one else can. During the beginning of winter and in early spring, when the ice is too thin to walk on but too thick for regular boats, these vessels offer a unique way to explore the wilderness in complete solitude.‘When ice conditions are tricky, a hovercraft is one of the few safe ways to travel on the sea. It moves effortlessly over both water and ice,’ Leimio explains.

The craft carries guests through the winter landscape to a private island base, where you can try floating in a survival suit and moving safely on ice. The three-hour tour also includes a traditional archipelago lunch and coffee brewed over an open fire in a covered shelter.

In summer, Redrib runs a range of excursions – from sightseeing tours showcasing maritime Helsinki to luxurious once-in-a-lifetime adventures. All trips are made by RIB, with the option to include a helicopter transfer. In summer there’s also the chance to try climbing back aboard a RIB.

The Redrib Sunset Lounge Experience is designed for couples seeking a romantic escape, such as an anniversary celebration. A private RIB takes you to a deserted island, far from the bustle of the city. There, you can unwind on the rocks, sip champagne and enjoy cocktails and snacks as the sun sinks into the sea.

The Redrib Cottage Locals Experience invites visitors to the home island of a couple who live year-round in the archipelago. You can explore the island’s nature trail, enjoy a home-cooked lunch on sun-warmed cliffs, and relax in a sauna with sweeping views over the sea – all the way to central Helsinki.