Destinations
Stockholm Archipelago Map: Complete Island Guide for Boaters
Navigate Stockholm's 30,000 islands with confidence. Our complete archipelago map guide covers regions, routes, harbours, and the best anchorages for charter guests.
By Erik Lindström · · 12 min read
Understanding the geography of Stockholm's archipelago is essential for planning the perfect boat trip. This comprehensive map guide breaks down the entire archipelago into navigable regions, recommended routes, and key harbours.
Archipelago Geography Overview
Stockholm's archipelago stretches approximately 80 km from the city centre to the outermost skerries in the Baltic Sea. The 30,000+ islands range from large, inhabited landmasses to tiny rocky outcrops barely visible above the waterline.
The Three Zones
The archipelago is traditionally divided into three distinct zones, each with its own character:
Inner Archipelago (Inre Skärgården)
- Distance from Stockholm: 5-20 km
- Character: Lush, green islands with established communities
- Key islands: Vaxholm, Ljusterö, Värmdö
- Best for: Half-day trips, boat tours, beginners
- Harbours: Vaxholm guest harbour, Stavsnäs
Middle Archipelago (Mellanskärgården)
- Distance from Stockholm: 20-50 km
- Character: Mix of forested islands and rocky shores
- Key islands: Sandhamn, Grinda, Finnhamn, Möja
- Best for: Full-day charters, overnight stays
- Harbours: Sandhamn marina, Grinda guest harbour
Outer Archipelago (Yttre Skärgården)
- Distance from Stockholm: 50-80 km
- Character: Windswept, barren rock formations, dramatic scenery
- Key islands: Huvudskär, Svenska Högarna, Bullerö
- Best for: Experienced boaters, nature reserves, birdwatching
- Harbours: Limited — mostly natural anchorages
Key Navigation Routes
Route 1: The Classic Inner Tour (4-5 hours)
Stockholm → Fjäderholmarna → Vaxholm → Stockholm
- Distance: ~30 nautical miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Vaxholm Fortress, Fjäderholmarna craft shops
- Ideal vessel: Any — perfect for motorboat rental or yacht
Route 2: Sandhamn Express (8-10 hours)
Stockholm → Kanholmsfjärden → Sandhamn → Stockholm
- Distance: ~50 nautical miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Open water crossing, Sandhamn village
- Ideal vessel: Fast motorboat or motor yacht
Route 3: Southern Archipelago (Full day)
Stockholm → Utö → Ornö → Stockholm
- Distance: ~60 nautical miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Utö mines, Ornö nature
Route 4: The Grand Tour (2-3 days)
Stockholm → Grinda → Sandhamn → Möja → Finnhamn → Stockholm
- Distance: ~80 nautical miles
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Highlights: Complete archipelago experience
- Ideal vessel: Sailing yacht or large motor yacht
Essential Harbours and Marinas
Guest Harbours with Full Service
- Vaxholm — fuel, water, electricity, restaurants, shops
- Sandhamn — fuel, water, electricity, restaurants, Yacht Club
- Grinda — water, electricity, restaurant, nature trails
- Dalarö — fuel, water, shops, historic fortifications
- Stavsnäs — fuel, water, ferry terminal, provisioning
Natural Anchorages (Staff Favourites)
- Korsö (near Sandhamn) — protected bay, stunning sunset views
- Lökholmen (near Grinda) — secluded, calm waters
- Gålö — shallow bay, excellent swimming
- Björkskär — outer archipelago, wild and beautiful
Weather and Sea Conditions
The archipelago's weather can change rapidly. Key considerations:
Wind Patterns
- Summer prevailing winds: SW to W, 5-10 m/s
- Morning calm is common June-August, wind builds afternoon
- Outer archipelago experiences stronger, more variable winds
Sea State
- Inner archipelago: Generally calm, protected waters
- Kanholmsfjärden (open crossing): Can build 1-2m waves in strong winds
- Outer archipelago: Exposed to Baltic swells
Fog
- Most common in spring and early summer
- Can reduce visibility dramatically in the outer islands
- Radar and GPS essential for navigation
Practical Tips for Charter Guests
Fuel Planning
Plan refuelling stops carefully — not all islands have fuel stations. Key fuel stops: Vaxholm, Sandhamn, Dalarö, Stavsnäs.
Mobile Coverage
- Inner archipelago: Good 4G coverage
- Middle archipelago: Variable — works in harbours, patchy at sea
- Outer archipelago: Limited or no coverage
Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten)
You may land on most islands and walk ashore, but:
- Stay 100m from private residences
- Don't pick protected plants
- Take all rubbish with you
- Respect nature reserves (some have restricted landing)
Seasonal Navigation Notes
Spring (April-May): Channels may have floating ice early season. Water temperature 4-8°C. Beautiful but cold.
Summer (June-August): Peak boating season. Busy harbours — book in advance or arrive early. Water temperature 18-22°C.
Autumn (September-October): Reduced daylight. Spectacular colours. Many facilities close late September.
Winter (November-March): Ice navigation expertise required. Some inner channels freeze. Dramatic beauty for experienced boaters.
Whether you're planning your first boat tour of Stockholm's archipelago or your twentieth, understanding the geography helps you make the most of every hour on the water. Contact our team for personalised route recommendations based on your interests and timeframe.