Sweden's coastlines, lakes, and canals offer rich cruising experiences, combining scenic beauty with cultural history. Whether exploring Viking heritage, the serene archipelagos, or visiting neighbouring countries, Swedish cruises provide a unique way to discover the country's natural and historical treasures.
Interest in cruises is rising, and Sweden is at the heart of this trend. Whether looking for a day trip or planning a more extended holiday, Sweden offers diverse cruises highlighting local beauty and international destinations.
Several factors contribute to this growing popularity, including the opportunity to explore multiple countries in a single trip—an attractive option for international visitors. Additionally, Sweden's reputation for safety and the variety of ship sizes and itineraries available cater to different preferences and travel styles, making cruises an ideal choice also for solo travellers.
In this guide, you’ll discover top Swedish cruises, must-see destinations, travel tips, and unforgettable journeys—from picturesque canals to exciting Baltic adventures; there’s something for every type of traveller.
Bergs Lock, Göta Canal, Linköping
Enjoy a cruise along Göta Canal that takes you through Bergs Locks, famous for its seven connected locks.
Photo: Visit Linköping & Co
Bergs Lock, Göta Canal, Linköping
Photo: Visit Linköping & Co
Ferry to the archipelago, Stockholm
Photo: Emmie Bolmstedt/imagebank.sweden.se
The Bothnian Bay archipelago
Photo: Ted Logart/imagebank.sweden.se
Arrival in Sandhamn, Stockholm
Photo: Henrik Trygg/mediabank.visitstockholm.com
Whether interested in history and nature or simply exploring Sweden’s waterways, here are some unforgettable day trips and journeys within Sweden.
Experience the enchanting Göta Canal with a day trip on one of its passenger boats. Explore Sweden’s famous 19th-century canal, offering scenic routes through lakes, locks, and charming villages, providing a glimpse into Sweden’s historic infrastructure.
Embark on a relaxing cruise that combines historical significance with natural beauty as you visit the island of Birka, Sweden's first city. When you travel with Strömma, the package includes a round-trip journey, a guided tour of the island's archaeological site, and entry to the museum.
Cruise along the Hjälmare Canal through a historic cultural landscape dating back to Gustav Vasa's time. Enjoy a boat journey with Strömma, surrounded by beautiful views on Sweden's oldest navigable canal.
Explore the vast archipelago of the Bothnian Bay aboard M/S Laponia. These cruises combine beautiful coastal scenery with delicious onboard dining, guided tours, and live entertainment for a memorable experience in Sweden's northern waters.
Strömma invites you to discover the breathtaking Stockholm archipelago with a range of scenic day cruises. The Thousand Islands Cruise aboard the historic M/S Waxholm III (built in 1903) is a highlight. This cruise takes travellers from Stockholm through the archipelago, with guided stops at Kymmendö, Bullerö, and Sandhamn—three of the region's iconic islands.
Fredriksborg Hotel and Fortress, Värmdö
Fredriksborg Fortress, built in 1735, has transformed its 18th-century officer's quarters into the present-day Fredriksborg Hotel.
Photo: Fredriksborg Hotel and Fortress
Fredriksborg Hotel and Fortress, Värmdö
Photo: Fredriksborg Hotel and Fortress
Viking Line cruise ship
Photo: Viking Line / Joonas Kortelainen
Stena Line cruise
Photo: Tonie Högberg / Stena Line
For those looking to combine the holiday in Sweden with a getaway beyond, several short cruises offer the perfect escape to nearby countries like Finland, Estonia, Latvia and Poland.
Classic overnight and day cruises to Finland provide easy access to Turku, Helsinki, and the Åland Islands. Operators like Viking Line, Tallink Silja, and Finnlines provide onboard entertainment during your journey. Viking Line is also working towards a greener future with the "Green Sea Corridor," aiming for 100% carbon neutrality in cargo and passenger transport by 2035.
Why not combine two capital cities in one weekend? Travel from Stockholm to Tallinn, Estonia, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, or visit Riga, Latvia. Travel options are available with Tallink Silja and Birka Gotland.
Explore Poland’s historic port cities, such as Gdynia and Gdańsk, on an affordable cruise. Operators like Stena Line and Polferries offer convenient routes from Karlskrona and Nynäshamn.
Cruise ship Stockholm
Sweden is a sought-after international cruise destination as a prominent ferry hub, with Stockholm at the forefront as a sustainable port of call.
Photo: Per-Erik Adamsson / Port of Stockholm
Cruise ship Stockholm
Photo: Per-Erik Adamsson / Port of Stockholm
Trädgårdsföreningen, Gothenburg
Photo: Per Pixel Petersson/Göteborg & Co
Skyline of Malmö, Skåne
Photo: Werner Nystrand
Visby city wall
Photo: Emelie Asplund/imagebank.sweden.se
Around 8 million travellers annually pass through Stockholm's ports, primarily using ferry services, especially between Sweden and Finland. Sweden is also a sought-after international cruise destination as a prominent ferry hub, with Stockholm at the forefront as a sustainable port of call. The Ports of Stockholm are developing one of Europe’s first shore power connections for cruise ships, allowing auxiliary engines to be turned off, reducing noise and air emissions and lessening the vessels' environmental impact.
One of the strengths of Sweden's ports is their proximity to city centres, making them easily accessible by foot or public transport. Major international operators such as Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises frequently dock in Sweden, as do several smaller luxury lines.
Stockholm is a central hub for international cruises, welcoming ships from cities across the Baltic and North Seas. Visitors shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant city, which is rich in history and cultural attractions and often referred to as the highlight of a Baltic cruise.
Gothenburg and Malmö provide excellent ports for cruises traversing the North Sea, connecting to destinations like Denmark, Norway, and the UK. These cities offer a blend of coastal charm and historical sites waiting to be discovered.
Smaller ports, such as Visby on Gotland, present unique cruising experiences with access to captivating historical sites and stunning natural landscapes. Visby’s medieval architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination. A stop is often included in a Baltic cruise.
Other Swedish ports with international cruise calls include Karlskrona, Kalmar, Helsingborg, Ystad, and Lysekil. Each offers unique attractions and experiences for travellers visiting from abroad.
Whether you're looking to explore Sweden's rich history, natural beauty, or nearby international destinations, cruising offers an unforgettable way to experience it all. From day trips through picturesque canals to exciting journeys across the Baltic, Sweden's waterways offer endless adventures.
