The multipurpose icebreakers Fennica and Nordica have provided assistance several times in Alaska, Canada, and the Arctic

The multipurpose icebreakers Fennica and Nordica of Finland-based Arctia Ltd have provided assistance several times in Alaska, Canada, and the Arctic. Finnish expertise, responsibility, and respect for the delicate nature and indigenous peoples are highly valued among the locals.

Multipurpose icebreaker Fennica was shipped to Milne Inlet, Canada, where it remained from early September to mid-November 2024. After this, it returned to icebreaking duties on the Baltic Sea. In previous years, Fennica provided assistance in Alaska as well. What is it like to sail along the fringes of Alaska?

- It’s harsh, rugged, and cold; but not cold enough for a Finn to be unused to it, answers Apprentice Seaman Niko Teräkoski.

- In terms of temperatures, the conditions are similar to those in Northern Europe. There’s just more ice.