Stockholm: 2-Hour RIB Speed Boat Tour of the Archipelago

Stockholm: 2-Hour RIB Speed Boat Tour of the Archipelago offers a lively and engaging way to see Stockholm’s famed islands and vibrant cityscape from the water. Priced at $166 per person, this experience lasts around two hours, with departures available throughout the day. Guided by friendly, professional captains, you’ll zip through the archipelago in a sturdy, fast RIB boat that provides an exhilarating ride and incredible vistas.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines adventure with culture. First, the speed of the boat makes for an adrenaline-filled experience that’s perfect for those craving a thrill. Second, the views of Gamla Stan’s colorful 17th-century buildings from the water create a unique perspective you simply can’t get from land.

The only potential downside? Since the ride is at speed, it might not be ideal for travelers with back problems or those who prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, as it runs rain or shine, heavy weather conditions could impact the experience, though the supplied gear helps keep everyone comfortable.

This tour suits adventure lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Stockholm’s islands from a different angle—all in a fun, fast-paced package.

Key Points

• Authentic Water Experience: See Stockholm from the water, including the Old Town and archipelago’s wild landscapes.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Adam and PJ are praised for their friendliness, humor, and insights.
• Fast-Paced Adventure: The speedboat delivers a thrill, making it ideal for adrenaline junkies and those wanting a fun ride.
• Stunning Views: From the colorful buildings of Gamla Stan to wild islands and historic bridges, the scenery is captivating.
• Full Safety Gear: Beanies, wind jackets, and overalls ensure comfort regardless of weather.
• Great Value: The combination of scenic beauty, expert guides, and active fun makes this a worthwhile investment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics
Your adventure begins at Strandvägen kajplats 17, a central Stockholm location easy to reach by public transport or walking. The tour lasts about two hours, which balances enough time on the water without feeling rushed. You meet your guides at the dock, where you’ll be fitted with the supplied safety gear—beanies, warm overalls, and wind jackets—making it clear that comfort and safety are priorities, even in cooler weather.

What to Expect on the Ride
Once aboard the RIB, the thrill of feeling the wind in your hair and the power of the boat is immediate. The guides are friendly, often sharing humorous anecdotes and insightful commentary about Stockholm’s sights and history. According to many reviews, guides like Adam and PJ are a big part of why this tour feels special—they are knowledgeable, engaging, and keep the mood lively.

Cruising Past Gamla Stan
From the start, you’ll pass by Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town, and see the reflection of its colorful buildings in the water. It’s a perspective that’s both charming and striking, especially when contrasted with the wild, rocky islands of the archipelago. Many travelers comment on how this water-level view offers a fresh appreciation of the city’s architecture and history.

Speeding into the Archipelago
Once you leave the city behind, the real adventure begins. The boat accelerates as you weave through lush, rocky islands and lakeside summer houses—some inhabited, others seemingly untouched by time. Many reviews emphasize the thrill of flying over the water at nearly 45 knots, a feeling that’s both exciting and invigorating. If you’re a fan of adrenaline, the boat’s brisk pace delivers a rush that’s hard to match.

Exploring the Islands
The tour includes stops around Sodermalm and Nacka, giving you a glimpse of both lively neighborhoods and remote wilderness. The wild scenery with rock formations and forests contrasts sharply with the urban backdrop, offering a well-rounded view of Stockholm’s diverse environment. You’ll also cruise past summer houses—many on inhabited islands—showing a glimpse of how Swedes enjoy their idyllic summer retreats.

Vaxholm Fortress & Bridges
Before returning, the boat passes near Vaxholm Fortress, a historic site that many comment as a highlight, blending natural beauty with a touch of military history. The tour concludes by cruising under iconic bridges like the Djurgårdsbrunnscanal, providing a scenic and historic finish to your water journey.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at Strandvägen kajplats 17
This is a convenient, central location in Stockholm. You’ll meet your guide and get equipped with safety gear, which includes wind jackets and overalls—crucial for staying warm and dry in unpredictable weather. Many reviews mention that the gear keeps you comfortable even in cooler months, making the experience accessible year-round.

Cruise through Stockholm’s Waterways
The first part of the tour is a relaxing ride past Gamla Stan, giving everyone a chance to snap photos of the colorful facades reflected in the water. Guides often share snippets of Stockholm’s history, adding a layer of culture to the scenic ride.

Speed into the Archipelago
Once you’ve soaked in the city sights, the boat accelerates as you head towards the archipelago’s wild landscapes. Many travelers describe this section as “exhilarating”—the boat’s speed brings a sense of adventure, and you’ll appreciate the full panoramic views of rocky islands and forested shores.

Island Exploration & Wild Scenery
You’ll pass by summer houses, some inhabited, others private retreats. Many reviews mention how the boat can access small, shallow waters that larger vessels cannot, allowing a closer look at the islands’ natural beauty. The scenery includes rocks, forests, and some uninhabited patches that evoke a sense of untouched wilderness.

Visit Near Vaxholm and Under Bridges
The tour offers a glimpse of Vaxholm Fortress, a historic highlight, and passes beneath iconic bridges, including the Djurgårdsbrunnscanal. These moments combine natural beauty with Stockholm’s engineering feats, giving a rounded sense of the city’s connection to its waterways.

Return & Reflection
Your trip ends back at the starting point, with plenty of opportunity for more photos or to chat about the highlights with your guides. Many reviewers note that the guides’ expertise and friendly attitude make this experience memorable, with some adding they learned a lot about the area’s history and geography.

Authenticity & Value

What makes this tour stand out is its authentic approach. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the wind, hearing stories from guides who love the area, and experiencing Stockholm’s landscape in a way few other tours can offer. The cost of $166 is justified by the quality of the guide, the safety gear, and the memorable adrenaline rush.

Many reviews highlight that the 2-hour trip is perfect—not too long to become tiring, but long enough to see a good chunk of the archipelago, including Vaxholm and other scenic spots. Several travelers mentioned that the speed boat’s ability to access small islands makes it superior to larger, slower boats and gives a more intimate experience.

The guides’ friendliness and expertise are frequently praised, making the experience not only fun but also educational. This adds value for those interested in knowing more about Stockholm’s water-bound history and landscape.

Weather considerations are worth noting. Since the tour runs rain or shine, packing suitable clothing is a good idea—especially in cooler months. The provided gear helps keep you dry and warm, but the thrill of high-speed riding is best enjoyed in good weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for adventure seekers, water lovers, and those craving a unique perspective of Stockholm. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a bit of speed and thrill, but also want to take in scenic views and learn from expert guides. It’s less suitable for young children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or sensitivity to high speeds.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise without the adrenaline, other options like boat tours or land-based sightseeing might suit you better. But if you want a fun, fast-paced, and informative ride, this tour hits the mark.

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FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for those over 12 years old. Younger children or infants are not suitable due to the nature of the speed boat ride.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are suggested. Since gear such as wind jackets and overalls are provided, you mainly need to dress according to the weather and bring some personal items like a phone or camera, avoiding large luggage or bags.

Will the tour run if it rains?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine. However, it may be canceled in cases of heavy fog or thunderstorms. The supplied gear helps make the experience pleasant even in less-than-perfect weather.

How fast does the boat go?
The boat can reach speeds of nearly 45 knots, providing a high-energy experience. Many reviews describe the ride as “thrilling” and “exhilarating.”

Can I see the city’s landmarks from the boat?
Absolutely. The tour offers fantastic views of Gamla Stan, Vaxholm Fortress, and the bridges, giving a unique perspective that’s both scenic and educational.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Most travelers agree that the combination of scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and adrenaline provides excellent value for money. Several reviews mention it as a highlight of their Stockholm visit.

What is included in the price?
Gear such as beanies, wind jackets, warm overalls, and insurance are provided. The tour itself is guided in English, with a focus on safety and enjoyment.

To sum it up, the Stockholm 2-hour RIB Speed Boat Tour offers a blend of thrilling adventure and scenic exploration. It’s a wonderful way to see the city’s waterways and islands from a fresh angle, especially for those who enjoy a bit of speed and fresh air. With friendly guides, excellent scenery, and a well-organized experience, it’s a memorable addition to any Stockholm itinerary—particularly for travelers seeking active fun and authentic water-level views. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight, and who don’t mind getting a little wet and wild along the way.