Stockholm Archipelago Guide: How to Visit the Islands by Ferry

Understanding the Stockholm Archipelago Network
The Stockholm archipelago (Stockholms skärgård) stretches almost 80 kilometres east from the city centre into the Baltic Sea. While some islands are home to permanent communities with shops, historic villages and seaside restaurants, others are uninhabited nature reserves of pine forests and smooth granite shores.

Getting onto the water is a fundamental part of local life in Stockholm. The ferry system is divided into two main categories:

1. SL Commuter Ferries (Public Transport): Ideal for quick trips within the inner harbor, connecting sites like Nybroviken, Gamla Stan, Djurgården, Skeppsholmen, Nacka Strand and Lidingö.
2. Waxholmsbolaget Ferries: The primary regional ferry network serving the middle and outer archipelago, operating year-round from central quays like Strömkajen.

Key Ferry Terminals in Central Stockholm
Most boat journeys begin right in the centre of Stockholm:
Strömkajen: Located opposite the Royal Palace and the Grand Hôtel, this is the main hub for Waxholmsbolaget archipelago ferries.
Nybroviken: Located at the end of Strandvägen, serving scenic routes, SL Line 80 commuters and archipelago excursion boats.
Slussen & Räntmästartrappan: The key departure point for the popular Djurgården ferry (SL Line 82).
Popular Islands to Visit by Ferry

1. Vaxholm – The Gateway to the Archipelago
Vaxholm is the historic capital of the archipelago, famous for its 16th-century fortress, wooden townhouses and charming waterfront cafés.
Journey time: 60 minutes from Strömkajen.
Best for: First-time visitors wanting a classic island town atmosphere without a long journey.

2. Fjäderholmarna – The Closest Archipelago Experience
If you are short on time, the Fjäderholmarna islands offer a taste of coastal life just a short hop from the city centre. The island features craft workshops, traditional smokehouses and rocky bathing spots.
Journey time: 20–30 minutes from Slussen or Nybroviken.
Best for: Quick half-day trips and waterfront dining.

3. Grinda – Nature Reserves and Bathing Spots
Grinda is a lush, car-free island fully designated as a nature reserve. It offers hiking trails, rocky beaches, kayak rentals and a historic hotel (Grinda Wärdshus).
Journey time: 1.5 to 2 hours from Strömkajen.
Best for: Outdoor activities, swimming and relaxed summer day trips.

4. Sandhamn – Outer Archipelago Sailing Hub
Located at the edge of the open sea, Sandhamn is a bustling maritime village known for its sailing culture, sandy beaches and vibrant summer atmosphere.
Journey time: 2 hours via fast ferry (or direct routes from Stavsnäs harbor).
Best for: Ocean views, historic seaside villages and summer nightlife.

How Tickets and Fares Work
Using the SL Public Transport Network (Inner Archipelago)
Regular SL tickets (including single tickets, 24-hour, 72-hour and 30-day travelcards) are valid on designated SL ferry routes, such as:
Line 82 (Djurgårdsfärjan): Slussen to Djurgården and Skeppsholmen.
Line 80 (Sjövägen): Nybroviken – Djurgården – Nacka Strand – Lidingö (Dalénum) – Ropsten.
Tip: Travelling on Line 80 provides a scenic public ferry tour past historic waterfronts, modern residential developments like Kvarnholmen, and iconic landmarks such as the Gods Hand sculpture by Carl Milles at Nacka Strand.
Travelling with Waxholmsbolaget (Middle & Outer Archipelago)
Waxholmsbolaget operates a zone-based fare system. You can purchase single tickets on board using contactless credit cards or use the official Waxholmsbolaget app/card.
Off-peak Advantage: During the winter and low seasons, Waxholmsbolaget often accepts 30-day or longer SL period travelcards on their vessels.
Practical Tips for Archipelago Ferry Travel
Check Timetables in Advance: Summer schedules run frequently, but autumn, winter and spring timetables have fewer daily departures. Always check the return boat time before stepping ashore.
Buy Coffee & Fika on Board: Most traditional archipelago ferries feature small cafeterias offering coffee, Swedish cinnamon buns (kanelbullar), sandwiches and light meals.

Dress in Layers: Even on warm summer days, wind speeds on open water can make the deck breezy and cool. Bring a jacket or windbreaker.
Respect the Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten): You are free to explore nature on the islands, provided you respect local residents, do not leave litter and follow fire safety regulations.