From May to July, the sun does not set above the Arctic Circle — and in Rovaniemi that means you can ride a jet ski in the middle of the night in the same light you'd ride at noon. This safari runs in the late evening when the light is at its softest and most golden, the river turns into a mirror, and other users have left the water.
The 2–3 hour safari leaves time to ride far, stop without rushing and let the landscape do the talking. We depart from the city as the night begins, head north and follow the river to its most beautiful stretches. Along the way we take several stops — for photos, for coffee on the shore and simply to take it all in. With the river flat as glass and the sun hovering above the horizon, you understand why the midnight sun is one of the world's most unique natural phenomena. An experience you can't have anywhere else — and for many of our guests the highlight of their entire trip to Lapland.
Highlights
- Midnight sun above the Arctic Circle — a unique summer experience
- Soft light, calm river and quieter waters
- Longer route — we reach far north
- Guide with you throughout
How the safari runs
- 1Meet at Ounaspaviljonki harbour in the evening
- 2Gear up and safety briefing
- 3Riding induction on calm water
- 4Longer ride north under the midnight sun
- 5Coffee and photo stop on a quiet shore
- 6Return to the harbour in the midnight light
What's included
- Jet ski and fuel
- Life jackets
- Induction and safety briefing
- Guide throughout the safari
Meeting point
Ounaspaviljonki harbour, Rovaniemi. Exact departure time depends on the sun cycle and is confirmed with your booking.
Good to know
- Available May–July when the midnight sun is at its strongest.
- Minimum age for the driver is 18 (driving license). Passengers from 8 years.
- Dress warmly — evenings are noticeably cooler than days.
- Weather dependent. Free cancellation up to 24 h before departure.
Frequently asked questions
When does the safari run?
In the late evening, typically 21:00–24:00. The exact departure depends on the sun cycle and is confirmed with your booking — we pick the moment when the light is softest and the river is calmest.
Will I definitely see the midnight sun?
From late May to mid-July the sun does not set in Rovaniemi at all. Clouds may hide the sun itself, but the light is still unique — the river never goes dark.
Is it colder in the evening?
Yes — evenings are 5–10 °C cooler than daytime. Dress warmer than you would for a daytime ride: a wool base layer and a windproof jacket on top.
Do I need a driving licence to ride a jet ski?
Yes — the driver needs a valid car driving licence (category B). Passengers don't need one.
What's the age limit?
Drivers must be 18 or older. Passengers are welcome from age 8 — but note the safari runs into the night and may not suit small children.
Is the season limited?
Yes — the Midnight Sun safari only runs May–July when the midnight sun is at its strongest. From August the evening light dims and the experience is no longer the same.