First out was the Administration's smallest icebreaker, Ale, which left the port in Luleå before New Years.
The first icebreaking operation took place on 4 January when a ship on its way out from Kalix needed assistance, writes the Swedish Maritime Administration in a press release.
“We have prepared for a long time. The season starts a month later than last year”, says Amund Lindberg, head of winter maritime shipping, in the press message.
As it will be cold the coming week, the icebreakers Atle and Frej will soon join Ale.
The Swedish Maritime Administration has six own icebreakers. The newest addition, Idun, will start working in March according to the plans.