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

If you’re looking to see Stockholm from an exciting new angle, this 2-hour RIB speedboat tour through the archipelago might just be what you need. Designed for thrill-seekers and water lovers alike, this experience offers a chance to fly across the water at high speeds while soaking in some of the most beautiful scenery around Stockholm.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines adrenaline with spectacular views — you’ll get a rush and a visual feast all in one. The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness, making the ride not just fun but also informative. However, a potential consideration is that, since the ride is fast and energetic, it might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a laid-back day on the water.

This tour suits those who want a quick, memorable snapshot of Stockholm’s island landscape with a side of excitement. It’s especially good if you’re after a unique experience that blends nature, culture, and adventure without taking up too much of your day.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure with a focus on thrill and scenery
• Expert guides provide interesting insights along the route
• Ideal for those who love water sports and scenic views
• Not suitable for young children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back problems
• Weather-dependent but generally runs rain or shine unless conditions are foggy or stormy
• Good value for the price considering the experience and the scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a straightforward, two-hour adventure that whisks you through Stockholm’s beautiful archipelago aboard a RIB speedboat. From the moment you meet your friendly guide at Strandvägen kajplats 17, you’ll feel the anticipation building. You’ll be provided with beanies, warm overalls, and wind jackets, which are thoughtful touches given that, even in warmer months, the wind on the water can be brisk.

Once aboard, the guide will give you a quick safety briefing and introduce you to the boat. The ride kicks off with a gentle cruise past Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming Old Town, where you’ll see the colorful 17th-century buildings reflected in the water — a classic shot that’s totally different from the usual land-based photos. But the real fun begins once the boat picks up speed and zooms into the archipelago.

The Route and Highlights

Passing Gamla Stan: We loved the way the Old Town looked from the water — it’s a different perspective that makes the colorful facades pop even more. Travelers say this view is one of the best parts of the tour, and we agree; it’s a perfect introduction before hitting the open water.

Speeding through the Archipelago: Once you’re in the open waters, the guide will open up the throttle, and you’ll feel the wind against your face as you glide over the waves at impressive speeds. According to reviews, many describe the boat as “incredibly fast,” making the ride a true thrill — “Adam was perfect! The boat was incredibly fast,” one reviewer shared.

Islands and Summer Homes: As you cruise, you’ll pass by summer houses on inhabited islands and enjoy scenery of lush forests and rocky outcrops. Several reviews highlight how close you can get to these tiny, picturesque islands — better than larger boats that stay farther out. We found this to be a real treat, capturing that quintessential Swedish archipelago vibe.

Wild Scenery and Bridges: The tour continues around Sodermalm and Nacka, with scenic views of rugged rocks, forests, and the coastline. You’ll even cruise under some of Stockholm’s iconic bridges, offering photo-worthy moments. One reviewer mentioned, “You see a lot of the islands, including Vaxholm,” and the feeling of zipping past the wild landscape is genuinely exhilarating.

Vaxholm Fortress and More: The guide will briefly talk about Vaxholm Fortress, adding a touch of history to the adventure. It’s a quick but interesting stop for those curious about Stockholm’s maritime defenses, and it offers a nice backdrop for photos.

The Return and Wrap-up

After the thrill of the open waters, the boat will head back toward the city, giving you one last chance to enjoy the views of Stockholm’s skyline and the archipelago from the water. The ride concludes back at the starting point, and many reviews mention how the entire experience leaves a lasting smile and plenty of stories.

The Experience Details

The tour is operated by Rib Stockholm and includes safety gear — beanies, wind jackets, and overalls — which reviewers say are more than enough to keep warm, even on cooler days. The group size tends to be small and personal, thanks to the nature of the activity, which means you’ll get more attention from your guide.

Start location: Strandvägen kajplats 17
Duration: 2 hours
Price: About $166 per person — a fair price given the mix of scenery, speed, and guide expertise. Many reviews note the value for money, especially compared to more sedate boat tours.

Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, which offers peace of mind if your plans change.

Not suitable for: Children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back problems, due to the high-speed nature of the ride.

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Real Traveler Feedback

The overwhelming majority of reviews are glowing, averaging a 4.9 out of 5 from 287 travelers. People frequently mention the knowledgeable guides (especially Adam and PJ), emphasizing their ability to balance fun with safety and interesting commentary.

One reviewer wrote, “Adam was an excellent guide. Lots of fun on the boat.” Others agree that the guides made a difference: “PJ was an excellent guide who made sure we all had a great time, while also sharing good humor and interesting facts.”

Many describe the experience as “the best way to see the islands” because of the boat’s agility, which allows access to small, shallow waters inaccessible to larger vessels. And the thrill factor? It’s a hit, with comments like, “Super fun and fast boat,” and “The adrenaline rush of flying over the water at almost 45 knots was really cool.”

Final Thoughts

This Stockholm RIB speedboat tour offers a lively, scenic, and adrenaline-fueled way to explore the Stockholm archipelago. It’s a hit with travelers who don’t mind a fast-paced ride and want a different perspective on the city’s stunning waters and islands. The guides are consistently praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly attitude, making the trip not only exciting but also educational.

While the tour is quite energetic, it’s well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and are comfortable on a boat. It’s also a solid choice if you’re after a shorter, impactful experience that combines sightseeing with a dose of fun.

For people seeking a memorable, picture-worthy journey that combines natural beauty with a rush of speed, this tour hits the mark. Just remember that if you’re traveling with very young children or have specific health concerns, this might not be the ideal activity. But for most adventure-loving visitors, it’s a wild, wonderful way to see Stockholm’s archipelago from a fresh angle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12, mainly due to the speed and nature of the ride.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a good idea. The tour provides warm overalls, wind jackets, and beanies, so dress accordingly if needed.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, safety gear (beanies, overalls, wind jackets), and insurance.

Will it rain?
The tour runs rain or shine, but if there’s heavy fog or a thunderstorm, it might be canceled.

Is there commentary during the tour?
Yes, the guide provides interesting insights about the islands, bridges, and Stockholm’s maritime history in English.

How fast does the boat go?
The boat is described as “incredibly fast,” reaching speeds of up to 45 knots, for those craving a thrill.

What is the route?
You’ll start at Strandvägen, pass Gamla Stan, head into the archipelago, and cruise past Sodermalm, Nacka, and Vaxholm before returning.

Are there toilet facilities?
This isn’t specified, but given the short duration, you might find it best to go beforehand.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This detail isn’t mentioned, so it’s worth checking directly with Rib Stockholm if you have specific accessibility needs.

If you love a mix of scenic beauty, speed, and knowledgeable guides, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Stockholm. Just be prepared for a fast, fun, and sometimes wet adventure — it’s a ride you’re unlikely to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: