Ärjä Arctic Swim Challenge

This open water swimming experience is approximately 10 km long and is designed for experienced swimmers. The route will circle the sandy beaches and high sand cliffs of Ärjä Island, located near the widest inland waters of Finland, the Ärjänselkä.

We want the open water swimming event to be a memorable experience in the stunning landscapes of Ärjä Island, and we will make stops (4) at various beaches around the island. Participants will have the option to board a safety boat at any point during the swim or take a ride for part of the distance. All open water swimmers will receive a commemorative award from Ärjä Island. The start and finish areas are located at Vierasniemi on Ärjä Island, which was once a vacation spot for the management and guests of the Kajaani Paper Factory.

ÄRJÄ ARCTIC LAKE SWIM CHALLENGE open water swim event will accept the first 20 participants to register, with registration starting on December 1st, 2025. There will also be backup spots available for cancellations.
Categories and Preliminary Schedule:

Group start from Vierasniemi, Ärjä Island on August 3rd, 2025, at 13:00.

At the first break, we will divide swimmers into two groups: one for those who wish to swim at a faster pace and one for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Equipment:

Swimsuit/shorts

Orange ÄRJÄ ARCTIC LAKE SWIM swim cap, which you will receive at registration at Vierasniemi.

Wetsuits are mandatory.

The use of a safety buoy is compulsory.

Registration and Participation Fee: From December 1st,2025 to July 31st, 2026, €99. A maximum of 20 participants will be accepted in 2026.

In addition to the mandatory details in the online store’s checkout, please provide your birth year, the category you are entering, and your emergency contact details (name and phone number) in the message field.

After paying the participation fee, you will receive a code to book a boat ride of your choice from our online store. You can also purchase boat rides for your support crew.