Explore the Stockholm Archipelago by kayak! Paddle through island landscapes just outside Stockholm, passing by the picturesque town of Vaxholm, with a BBQ-style lunch on a remote island and an optional sauna to end the day. A full-day guided adventure for nature lovers and active travelers.
Meet your guide at Skärgårdens Kanotcenter, or choose optional pick-up from Stockholm (Tekniska Högskolan metro). At our kayak base, you’ll have time to change into paddling clothes, pack essentials into a drybag (provided), and leave extra items in our storage.
We start with a welcome briefing, gear fitting, and an overview of the route and conditions for the day.
Before we launch, your guide gives a basic paddling introduction on land, covering posture, strokes, and steering. Once on the water, we practice maneuvering together near shore before heading out.
While this tour is beginner-friendly, we recommend some prior kayaking experience, especially for windier days or if using a single kayak.
Once we’re ready, we head out into the archipelago, paddling through sheltered bays, narrow passages, and some more open stretches — always adjusted to the group and the day’s conditions.
We typically cover around 10–15 kilometers during the day, moving at a normal, steady pace, with time for short breaks along the way. The scenery changes as we go, from forested islands to more rocky coastlines, offering a variety of paddling experiences.
You’ll pass by traditional cottages, quiet stretches of water, and the iconic Vaxholm Fortress. Your guide shares local stories and facts about the islands — their names, history, and what life here is like today.
We also keep an eye out for seals, oystercatchers, and, with a bit of luck, even white-tailed eagles or ospreys as we move between the islands.
We take a short fika break (coffee & sweet snack) on the water or a nearby island, depending on the conditions. Later, we stop on a remote island for a longer rest. Enjoy a BBQ-style lunch prepared by your guide on the island, swim in the sea, or explore the island at your own pace.
We usually return via a different route for a fresh perspective. Keep your eyes open for seals, white-tailed eagles, ospreys, and oystercatchers along the way.
If you’ve booked it, the tour ends with a peaceful session in our wood-fired seaside sauna — the perfect Swedish finale.
Dress for the weather! We recommend comfortable outdoor clothing and a windproof jacket. We provide paddling jackets for extra warmth if needed. There’s a beach at the end where you can swim, so don’t forget your swimsuit and towel!
This full-day tour is beginner-friendly, and your guide will give you a short introduction before we start. However, if it’s your first time kayaking and you’re unsure, you might want to consider our shorter 4-hour Kayak & Fika or Sunset Tour instead. A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.
We mainly use 2-person kayaks as they’re easy to paddle and perfect for most participants. If you’re paddling solo and have experience, you may be given a 1-person kayak. In case of an odd number of participants, we may pair up people to ensure everyone has a great experience. Our guide will assist with this! 😊
We don’t offer hotel pick-up (unless arranged for private groups), but for some tours, you can choose pick-up from Tekniska Högskolan Metro Station in Stockholm. Just select this option when booking. Getting here is easy—follow the steps below and get ready for your adventure! 🚣✨
Getting here is easy and eco-friendly. Our kayak center is just a short, scenic trip from Stockholm by public transport.
Step 1: Take subway line T14 to Danderyds sjukhus
Step 2: Change to bus 670 and get off at Engarn (100 meters from us)
Ticket costs around 43 SEK (valid for 75 minutes). Tap your card or phone to pay. More info at sl.se
Optional return: Take a ferry from Vaxholm to Stockholm. It’s just a short bus ride from us. Timetable at waxholmsbolaget.se
Find us on Google Maps: Skärgårdens Kanotcenter, Resarövägen 10
You can take bus 670 from Engarn to Danderyds sjukhus and then the subway to central Stockholm.
For a more scenic return, take a short bus ride to Vaxholm and hop on a ferry to the city. Timetables: waxholmsbolaget.se
If you chose the pick-up/drop-off option, we’ll take you back to Tekniska Högskolan Metro Station after the tour.
Safety first! We paddle in light rain, which can actually make for a more atmospheric experience! However, if the weather conditions are unsafe, we’ll offer to reschedule your tour or provide a full refund. Don’t worry, we also provide waterproof jackets and hats to keep you comfortable during the adventure!
Yes! We can easily accommodate common dietary needs, such as gluten-free and lactose-free options for coffee and pastries. Just let us know when booking, and we’ll make sure to have something delicious for you. 🍪☕
Vaxholm is a charming town and the capital of the Stockholm Archipelago. A perfect place to relax before heading back to Stockholm. You can:
Yes, you can leave larger items, like suitcases, with us. For smaller things you want to keep with you, such as a towel for swimming during the break or a change of clothes, you can store them in a waterproof bag in the kayak’s hatch. There’s plenty of space in the kayaks, so you don’t need to worry about packing light! 😊
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Skärgårdens Kanotcenter
Resarövägen 10, 185 51 Vaxholm, Sweden
info@kanotcenter.com
+46 8 541 377 90
