Stockholm: Winter Kayaking Tour through the City Centre

If you’re looking for a way to see Stockholm that’s a little off the beaten path, a winter kayaking tour through the city’s waterways might just be your perfect match. While it’s not your typical sightseeing cruise, this experience offers a fresh perspective of Stockholm’s charming districts, colorful buildings, and iconic bridges—all from the water, even in the colder months.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides make all the difference, sharing insights about the city while keeping you safe and comfortable. Second, the dry suit kayaking ensures you stay dry and warm, making it feasible to enjoy Stockholm’s winter scenery without fighting the chill. But, of course, you’ll want to be prepared for the cold, as the experience is very weather-dependent and best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of an adventure in winter’s embrace.

This tour isn’t necessarily for everyone—if you’re not comfortable in water or don’t like cold weather, it might not be your thing. But if you’re a curious traveler who appreciates unique views and is prepared for the elements, it could be a highlight of your Stockholm trip.

Key Points

• Great for adventure lovers seeking a different way to experience Stockholm.
• Experienced guides make the journey enjoyable and informative.
• The dry suit gear keeps you warm and dry, even in winter.
• It’s suitable for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike, provided you’re comfortable with water.
• Photo opportunities are plentiful, giving you stunning, less typical shots of the city.
• The experience is weather-dependent — as long as the water isn’t frozen, you’re good to go.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Stockholm Winter Kayaking Tour

This three-hour adventure kicks off at the Rålis Kayak station on Kungsholmen, a convenient spot right next to the water. The first half-hour is all about safety and gear — expect to get outfitted in high-quality dry suits, life vests, gloves, and waterproof bags. These dry suits are designed to keep you warm and dry, which is crucial when paddling in Sweden’s winter. The gear is well-reviewed for its quality, making the cold and damp less of a concern for most participants.

Once suited up, your guide will give a quick safety briefing. After that, it’s time to paddle. The route takes you along the city’s enchanting districts — including Kungsholmen, Södermalm, and Gamla Stan — offering a different perspective of Stockholm’s architecture and waterways. As you glide beneath bridges and past colorful houses, your guide shares stories and insights about the city’s history and culture, although the main focus is on the scenery and the experience itself.

The scenery is truly captivating. Winter lends a stark beauty to Stockholm’s waterways, with frost-kissed buildings and quiet canals. If the weather is clear, you can expect some fantastic photo ops — a unique way to capture Stockholm’s charm from a different angle. The tour usually lasts around 2.5 hours of paddling, with time for stops and photos, and ends back at the starting point.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Rålis Kayak

The journey begins at a well-marked location on Smedsuddsvägen 23, a straightforward spot on the island of Kungsholmen. It’s easy to find thanks to the large shipping container that serves as the kayak station.

Safety Briefing and Gear Fitting

Your guide will walk you through safety procedures and show you how to handle the kayak. The provided equipment — including a double or single sea kayak, depending on your preference or experience — is designed for stability, especially useful for those new to kayaking. Participants are also given winter water shoes, gloves (pogies), and a waterproof bag for their belongings.

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Paddling Through Stockholm’s Waterways

For about 2.5 hours, you’ll paddle along the shoreline of Kungsholmen, glide under bridges, and pass through scenic parts of the city. The guide shares insights, but the main focus is on the experience and scenery. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and beautiful the city looks in winter, with some mentioning that weather conditions and group preferences influence the commentary.

End Back at Rålis

After your paddle, you return to the starting point, carrying memories of a unique Stockholm adventure. Some guests have enjoyed adding on a sauna or cold dip afterward, which is not part of the official tour but is a popular activity among visitors who want to warm up after being in the cold water.

What’s Included and the Practicalities

This experience is quite comprehensive for the price. It includes an experienced guide, all safety gear (dry suit, life vest, gloves, waterproof bag), waterproof shoes, and the kayak itself. The small group limit (up to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll want to bring warm clothing, including thermal underwear, a fleece, a hat, gloves, and extra layers. Remember, layers are key because the dry suit keeps water out but doesn’t insulate. The reviews emphasize the importance of being well-prepared: waterproof gloves, hand warmers, a beanie, and double socks make a tangible difference in comfort.

The activity is suitable for beginners, as no previous kayaking experience is required, but participants must be able to swim at least 200 meters. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or non-swimmers.

Note: There’s no nearby toilet at the kayak station, so plan ahead. Also, remember to dress appropriately and layer up; the gear does a great job of protecting against the cold, but preparation is essential.

The Experience Reviewed

Participants consistently praise their guides, with many mentioning how knowledgeable and helpful they are. Bobby, one of the guides, gets frequent compliments for his upbeat attitude and helpfulness, while Emil is also highlighted for being kind and informative. Several reviews mention feeling safe and well taken care of, even in cold weather.

The quality of the equipment is another standout, with reviewers noting that the dry suits and gear are top-notch, making the experience comfortable despite the winter chill. One reviewer even shared their experience of doing a cold dip after the paddle, describing it as unforgettable — a testament to how the tour can be combined with other local winter activities.

Weather can be a challenge; as one reviewer said, “COLD! BUT FANTASTIC,” emphasizing the importance of being prepared. Still, most agree that with proper gear, the cold is manageable, and the views are well worth it.

Participants also love the photo opportunities — paddling in front of Stockholm’s historic buildings and bridges in winter creates some stunning, unique shots. It’s a different vibe from the summer crowds and offers a peaceful, less crowded experience.

The Cost and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Stockholm, it offers good value for those looking for something different. The price covers all gear, the guide, and the small-group setting, making it a hassle-free way to try kayaking in winter. If you’re curious about Stockholm’s waterways and want to avoid the typical tourist routes, this tour delivers a memorable, scenic, and active experience.

Adding a sauna or taking a quick icy plunge post-tour is popular and enhances the value, turning a cold day into a full Nordic experience.

Who Should Do This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with water and cold weather. It’s perfect if you’re craving a memorable adventure, want to see Stockholm from a different angle, and don’t mind layered clothing and some brisk paddling. It suits both first-timers and experienced paddlers because of the stability of the kayaks and thorough guidance.

If you’re a family with older children who enjoy outdoor activities, it could be fun, but younger kids or those uncomfortable with water or cold might want to skip it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic way to explore Stockholm in winter, this kayaking tour offers a rare combination: peaceful waterways, excellent guides, and stunning city vistas. The quality gear makes cold weather manageable, and the small group size ensures a personal touch.

While it’s not for the faint of heart or anyone who dislikes cold weather, those prepared for chilly conditions will find this to be a genuinely memorable experience. The chance to see Stockholm from the water in winter, with its calm and quiet atmosphere, is a rare treat. Plus, the guides are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

All in all, it’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for something active, scenic, and uniquely Stockholm — just make sure you’re dressed for the occasion.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior kayaking experience is required. The kayaks are stable, and guides provide instructions.

How cold will it be, and what should I wear?
Expect cold weather; layering is essential. Wear thermal underwear, fleece, a hat, gloves, and extra socks beneath the dry suit. Waterproof gloves are recommended.

Can I do this if I don’t swim well?
You need to be able to swim at least 200 meters to participate safely.

What gear is included?
All safety equipment including dry suits, life vests, gloves, waterproof bags, shoes, and paddle gear are provided.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Rålis Kayak on Smedsuddsvägen 23 and finishes back at the same spot.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s not specifically suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers.

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

In the end, this winter kayaking tour in Stockholm offers a different way to see the city, with stunning views and the company of friendly guides. Just pack your warm layers, be prepared for the cold, and you might find yourself loving this Nordic adventure far more than you expected.

You can check availability for your dates here: