Imagine lying back in a buoyant thermal suit, weightless in a perfectly cut hole in a frozen lake, the hush of snow all around you, and, if luck and weather align, the night sky putting on an aurora show. Ice floating has surged from Nordic wellness menus into new winter hotspots — and Vladivostok has emerged as one of the Russian Far East’s most talked-about destinations for the experience. Local guides outfit participants in full-body dry/float suits, walk you through safety steps, and help you float in near-freezing water while staying warm, dry, and utterly relaxed.

What is ice floating — and why try it in Vladivostok?

Ice floating is a guided wellness experience: participants don specialized waterproof, buoyant suits (think rescue/dry-suit technology), step into an open hole cut in the ice, and float calmly on the water’s surface. The effect is meditative — quiet, sensory-reduced, and surprisingly restorative. The activity’s popularity in Lapland and other Arctic regions has spread, and recent social and news coverage show the practice gaining steam in Vladivostok, often offered by local operators during the winter months.

Safety & what you’ll wear

Safety is the non-negotiable part of the experience. Reputable providers supply full float/dry suits, flotation devices, and guided supervision. You wear layers underneath the suit (thermal base, fleece), then the rescue-style dry suit, which keeps your torso and head above water and insulated. Guides provide a briefing, assist you in getting in and out, and stay nearby while you float. If you plan to try ice floating in Vladivostok, confirm the provider’s safety protocols and ask about insurance, minimum age requirements, and any medical restrictions before booking.

Best time to go & what you might see

Winter, when lakes and sheltered bays freeze solidly, is the season for ice floating. Tours often run on clear nights when the sky is dark — the same conditions that favor an aurora sighting — so if you’re chasing the Northern Lights, check local forecasts and tour schedules. In Vladivostok, operators run sessions throughout the cold season; social posts and short videos from local participants show ice floating happening on frozen inlets and shallow bays near the city.

How to pick a provider in Vladivostok

• Look for companies that list dry suits, life vests, safety briefings, and on-site staff.

• Read recent reviews and watch short social clips from verified accounts or local press. Vladivostok’s ice-floating posts and reels are a good way to gauge the vibes and logistics before committing.

• Book in advance — slots can fill quickly during the peak season and on clear aurora nights.

Brought to us by @icefloating_vl. Big thanks to the team behind these stunning ice-floating sessions for the footage and local insight. Follow them for behind-the-scenes clips, booking info, and the latest session updates: https://www.instagram.com/icefloating_vl. If you try ice floating, tag @icefloating_vl and @letsgowanderbout — we’d love to see your photos!

What to expect during the experience

A typical session involves arriving at the meeting point, changing into warm base layers, being helped into your thermal float suit, listening to the safety briefing, stepping into the ice hole, and floating for a guided period (typically 10–30 minutes). Afterward, you’ll warm up with hot drinks and blankets. The whole experience is designed to be low-impact and deeply calming — more spa than extreme sport.

Conclusion: Why add ice floating Vladivostok to your winter list?

Ice floating in Vladivostok is an unusual blend of adrenaline-lite and deep calm. There’s the novelty and thrill of being in a hole in the ice, and the surprising tranquility of weightless floating in a cold, pristine environment. For travelers craving memorable winter experiences — and for those who love combining nature, wellness, and a touch of spectacle (hello, Northern Lights) — it’s a bucket-list activity worth planning around.

Plan & pack: book with a vetted local operator (search for @icefloating_vl and local tour listings), bring warm layers for before/after, and expect to trade your phone for a more immersive, screen-free experience during the float.

Want to relax and leave the details to someone else? Viator makes it easy to reserve a stress-free day out. Check this out now: https://viator.tpo.lu/i4bovcH5

Related Reads & Gear (Let’s Go Wander ’Bout)

Want more winter-adventure ideas or travel gear for cold trips? Check these Wander ’Bout picks:

Related blog posts & field notes

• Winter Fishing in Southeast Georgia and North East Florida (gear & tips) — planning for chilly-season outings.

• Pinnacle Rock State Park: Winter Hiking Guide — cold-weather outdoor ideas.

Gear picks from Let’s Go Wander ’Bout

• Portable Waterproof Insulated Cooler Backpack — keep warm drinks on hand after your float.

• Foldable Waterproof Picnic Blanket — ideal for chilly post-float picnics or hot-drink setups.

• Anti-Theft Crossbody Travel Bag — keep valuables secure during remote winter excursions.