Helsinki: Cold water floating experience with guide

Summary

Float in Helsinki’s cold waters & feel the city from a new angle

You’ll float in Helsinki’s icy water wearing a survival suit, guided by a local instructor who shares stories about rescue at sea and ice swimming traditions. All gear is provided — just show up in your regular clothes. Expect laughter, maybe some nerves, and a surprising sense of calm you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing by the time we zipped up the survival suits — those bright orange things make you look like some kind of cartoon astronaut. Our guide, Jukka, handed us each a hood and gloves, cracking a joke about “Finnish spa day.” I could smell the sea even before we got close to the water, that sharp, salty chill mixed with something metallic from the docks. It was colder than I expected, but honestly, I barely noticed once we waddled down to the edge.

Getting into the Baltic in March is not something I ever thought I’d do, but there we were, bobbing around like buoys. The suit keeps you dry and warm — it’s weirdly comforting, like being wrapped in a sleeping bag that floats. Jukka explained how rescue teams use these suits and talked about hypothermia (he didn’t sound like he was reading from a script; it felt more like he was sharing stuff he actually knew). At one point I just lay back and stared at the sky — all pale blue and streaky clouds — and tried to imagine what winter swimming must be like for locals. There was this quiet moment where all I could hear was my own breathing inside the hood.

I tried to say kiitos properly when we got out (Li laughed at my accent), but honestly, I was just grateful for hot tea and dry socks after. The whole thing only took about an hour or so, but it stuck with me — that feeling of doing something totally outside my usual comfort zone, right in the heart of Helsinki. If you’re looking for a day trip experience that’s more than just sightseeing… well, this is definitely it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Survival Suit Experience in Helsinki

• Floating in cold water with survival suit
• Learn about rescue at sea and hypothermia
• Discover benefits of ice swimming
• Relax on water or jump on floating ice rafts

Top questions

Do I need special clothing for the Helsinki cold water floating experience?

No, you can come as you are in normal seasonal clothing. All necessary gear is provided on-site.

Is there an instructor or guide during the cold water float?

Yes, a licensed local guide will be with you throughout the experience.

How long does the cold water floating activity take?

The activity usually lasts about an hour.

Where does the Helsinki floating experience take place?

The location is agreed upon in central Helsinki and may vary depending on weather conditions.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point.

Is this suitable for everyone?

The activity is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your experience includes all necessary survival suit equipment and guidance from a licensed local instructor; just arrive in your regular clothes at an agreed location in central Helsinki and everything else will be taken care of for your cold water float adventure.