Now the season has begun for the Swedish Maritime Administration's icebreakers. First out was the authority's smallest icebreaker, Ale, which left the harbor in Luleå before the turn of the year.
The first icebreaking operation took place on January 4 when a vessel on its way out from Kalix needed assistance, writes the Swedish Maritime Administration in a press release.
"We have prepared ourselves for a long time. The season is starting a month later than last season," says Amund Lindberg, head of winter navigation at the Swedish Maritime Administration, in the press release.
Since it will be cold in the coming week, the icebreakers Atle and Frej will soon be joining Ale.
The Swedish Maritime Administration has six of its own icebreakers. The latest purchased, Idun, will begin its work in March according to plans.
