Kayaking Stockholm Archipelago: Private family paddling

Paddle at your own pace through islands and protected waterways

A private family kayaking activity in Stockholm Archipelago where you paddle double kayaks through Bogesund Nature Reserve's protected waters, stopping to swim and look for wildlife. The guide leads you at a pace that suits your group, and kids share kayaks with adults so the whole family stays together. Bottled water, snacks and fully equipped kayaks are included.

The experience

You arrive at the meeting point and get fitted into a fully equipped sea kayak (paddle, spray skirt and life vest all included), then push off into the protected waters of Bogesund Nature Reserve at the heart of Stockholm Archipelago. The guide sets the pace so your family can explore what interests you without rushing to keep up with a larger group. Double kayaks mean kids paddle alongside an adult, and the guide watches for wildlife along the shoreline as you move through the islands.

The route typically includes a stop on one of the nearest islands where you can swim if you want, and the guide brings coffee, tea and snacks for a fika break. You paddle for around three hours total, choosing your own rhythm and deciding which inlets and islands to explore. The waterways stay sheltered, so even first-time paddlers and younger children can manage the distance without strain.

Vaxholm Fortress, the 16th-century citadel built by King Gustav Vasa to defend Stockholm, sits between Vaxholm and Rindö within the archipelago. You may paddle near it depending on conditions and your group's interests. Bring a change of clothes and swimwear if you plan to get in the water, along with sun protection and a rain jacket for the weather.

What’s included

• Fully equipped sea kayak with paddle, spray skirt and life vest.
• bottled water and snacks.
• waterproof bag for personal items.
• coffee and tea at the island break.
• guide leading the tour in English, French or German.

Options for this experience

3 options

Start time 10:00Guide in English, French or German · 10:00Tour starting at 10:00, meeting at Skärgårdens Kanotcenter

Start time 11:00Guide in English, French or German · 11:00Tour starting at 11:00, meeting at Skärgårdens Kanotcenter

Start time 15:00Guide in English, French or German · 15:00Tour starting at 15:00, meeting at Skärgårdens Kanotcenter

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDepartures at 10:00, 11:00 and 15:00

Book up to10h before

AgesAdult (6 and older) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, French and German

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Skärgårdens Kanotcenter | Kayaks & Outdoor

Is this one for you?Book the morning departure if your family wants calmer water and better light for spotting wildlife. The afternoon slot works if you prefer a later start to your day in Stockholm. The private format means you set the pace and choose which islands to explore, so families with mixed swimming abilities or different energy levels can stop when they want without holding back a larger group.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, French and German.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What time does the kayaking start?

The tour offers three start times: 10:00, 11:00, or 15:00. You choose your preferred departure when you book.

Can young children really paddle in the Stockholm Archipelago?

Yes. Younger children sit in a two-person kayak with an adult, so they paddle alongside you rather than managing their own boat. The guide keeps the group in protected waters and sets a pace that works for mixed ages and abilities.

What happens if someone in the family has never kayaked before?

The tour is designed for all skill levels. The guide leads at a pace your family sets, the double kayaks are stable, and you stay in sheltered waters. The guide will show you how to paddle and handle the kayak before you leave the shore.

Is there a break during the three hours?

Yes. The group typically stops on one of the nearby islands for a fika break with coffee, tea and snacks included. You can also swim at the stop if you want to get in the water.

What's included in the kayaking package?

The fully equipped sea kayak with paddle, spray skirt and life vest; bottled water and snacks; a waterproof bag for your belongings; and a guide who leads the tour in English, French or German. Coffee and tea are included at the island stop.

How do I get to the meeting point?

Public transportation options are available nearby. Depending on which tour option you book, pickup may be included. Check your selected option at checkout for the exact pickup details.