The archipelago of the northern Baltic Sea is one of the most unique regions in the world. They cover an area of almost 100,000 rocky islands – meadow-covered inner skerries and barren outer skerries. Around 5,000 islands and islets are said to lie off Stockholm alone – a natural paradise with a great diversity of animal and plant species.
On the numerous inhabited islands, fishing and agriculture are practiced as in the past. You can moor freely in every bay, in front of every rock or grove, as long as it is respectful towards nature and people. In addition, you will find plenty of well-equipped marinas and an excellent infrastructure for yacht charter.
The western Swedish skeries are probably among the most authentic and scenically diverse spots in the whole area. They stretch from Valberg in southern Gothenburg to the Norwegian border for around 120 nautical miles and are well protected by the outer skerries. The archipelago south of Gothenburg is an insider tip for sailors looking for calm waters and free harbours.
The Göta Canal, built by soldiers between 1810-1832, is one of the most spectacular waterways in the world, part of the waterway connecting Gothenburg and Stockholm. The canal is 190 km long and was mostly dug by hand. There are 58 locks on the way.
The Göta Canal is one of Sweden’s most visited tourist attractions and has been officially named Sweden’s Structure of the Millennium. It is passable by sailing yachts and there is a charter base named “Göta Kanal Charter” (one way in both directions possible). The canal is open in the Swedish summer between May and September.
Stockholm –the so called Venice of the North – is the most important yacht charter base in Sweden and the best starting point for sailing trips to the eastern archipelago. Dreamlike island landscapes and bays accompany you on your journey through the archipelago to the east until you set course for the open sea to the natural jewel of the Aland Islands. Here, halfway between Sweden and Finland, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the historic maritime town of Mariehamm. If time allows, you may consider to continue with your trip into Finland and visit Helsinki.
Moderate climate with significant temperature changes. At times of stable high air pressure, temperatures go up to 25 °C during summer . Mostly moderate westerly winds up to 3-4 Bft. Jet and cape effects intensify the wind. Significant currents can occur at bottlenecks. The conditions of the area require careful navigation by an experienced crew.
Best period to sail: May to August
good international fliight connections into Stockholm and Gothenburg
Charter bases:
Stockholm: Saltsjö Duvnas, Lidingö Gashaga
Gothenburg: Marstrand
Gothenburg, Stockholm: Göta Kanal Charter. One way charter both directions possible
