As of today, out of season, returns ~December. Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Coastal polynyas in the Bothnian Bay / Kvarken are recurring winter open-water areas formed when wind, currents and fast ice dynamics keep nearshore water free or intermittently open within an otherwise ice-covered gulf.
These open-water patches concentrate sea ducks, diving birds and seals, and act as local hotspots of ice production and ventilation in late winter.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| Valassaaret / Valsörarna (Storskär lighthouse area) |
| Replot (Raippaluoto) - Kvarken gateway / mainland viewpoint |
| + 1 more spot, with exact coordinates and timing, in the app → |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.