Winter kayaking in the Stockholm Archipelago is a magical adventure. Glide through icy waters, take in stunning winter landscapes, and enjoy a traditional Swedish fika in the heart of nature.
Meet your guide at Skärgårdens Kanotcenter on Resarö, just outside Stockholm. After check-in, we’ll help you change into your winter paddling gear — a drysuit, boots, and gloves, all provided by us. Just wear comfortable, warm layers underneath, like wool or thermals. You can leave your belongings at the kayak center and pack anything you need for the tour into a waterproof drybag.
Before launching from our kayak center, your guide will provide a safety briefing and show you paddling technique. We’ll practice a few strokes on land before heading out onto the water. No previous experience is needed.
Glide through calm, icy waters surrounded by snow-covered islands and serene winter landscapes. Each route is carefully selected by your guide to match the day’s wind, weather, and ice conditions—as well as the group’s comfort and pace.
Along the way, you’ll pass charming holiday cottages and scenic shorelines, made even more breathtaking by the soft light of winter. Every tour is unique, but each one captures the quiet magic and pristine beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago in winter.
We’ll take a well-deserved break during the tour to enjoy a traditional Swedish fika — a warm drink and something sweet. Depending on the weather and route, it might happen on a peaceful island or back at our cozy kayak center. Either way, it’s the perfect moment to relax, warm up, and top up your energy with some tasty extra calories.
If you choose the sauna, your tour ends with a truly Swedish experience: a traditional wood-burning sauna by the sea. Between sauna sessions, you’re welcome to take a refreshing dip in the cold water — just like the locals do.
It’s optional, but highly recommended — the perfect way to wrap up your winter kayaking adventure feeling warm, recharged, and a little extra proud. Towels are available to rent on-site if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not a chance – unless you show up in shorts! 😄
You’ll be equipped with a top-quality drysuit, neoprene boots, and paddling gloves to keep you dry. Just wear warm thermal layers underneath (go for wool or synthetics) and you’re good to go.
And the best part? After the tour, you can warm up like a true Viking in our wood-fired sauna 🔥 (optional but highly recommended!)
Dress in layers! We provide a drysuit and boots, but you’ll need warm thermal underwear, fleece or tights as mid-layers, and wool socks and a hat to stay cozy. Avoid cotton—go for synthetic or wool. Bring sunglasses on sunny days, and use a strap for prescription glasses. Please remove all jewelry before putting on the drysuit.
Absolutely! This tour is beginner-friendly, and your guide will give you a quick introduction before we start. The waters are calm, making it a great experience even for first-time paddlers. However, 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, except for private group bookings upon request. But don’t worry—getting here is simple! Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be on your way to an amazing 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.
At Skärgårdens Kanotcenter, your safety always comes first. Our winter kayaking tours run in all weather conditions — snow, frost, and crisp winter air are all part of the experience.
The only exceptions are storms or strong winds that could make paddling unsafe. In such cases, we’ll offer to reschedule your tour or provide a full refund.
You’ll be fully equipped with a premium drysuit, gloves, and boots — so you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready to enjoy the magic of the winter archipelago.
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 spot 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! 😊
Searching Availability...
Get 5% off your first adventure! Sign up for the latest news, offers, and updates on our kayaking tours, from summer to winter.
Valid for guided day tours, rentals, self-guided packages & sauna. Online bookings only, not combinable with other offers.
Skärgårdens Kanotcenter
Resarövägen 10, 185 51 Vaxholm, Sweden
info@kanotcenter.com
+46 8 541 377 90
