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Adventures in the Stockholm archipelago. A birds-eye view of a kayak navigation through islets in the Stockholm archipelago.

Photo: Henrik Trygg

Categories: Activities

Kayak adventures in Stockholm

Publish date: 12 June 2024

Explore Stockholm's waters with a paddle. Here are some tips on where to rent a kayak, SUP, or canoe in Stockholm.

It's been said, not just once, that Stockholm is best experienced from the water. And while a sailing excursion is a great alternative, kayaking is more accessible, especially if you don't own a boat.

So why not take matters into your own hands (literally) and spend a day exploring Stockholm with a kayak? There are several ways to explore the city and its surrounding waters from a duck's point of view.

Kayak in the City and surrounding suburbs

Kayaking in Stockholm
Henrik Trygg
  • Långholmen Kajak – Seasonal kayak rental shop on the small island of Långholmen (between Södermalm and Kungsholmen).
  • Stockholm Kayak and Hike – Organizes two guided kayak tours; one in central Stockholm, starting at Kristineberg, and one in the archipelago starting in Saltsjöbaden.
  • Stockholm Adventures – Activity organizer with several adventurous tours in, and around Stockholm. By foot, on bike or cross-country skates, or in a kayak.
  • Stockholm Nature – Organizes excursions for smaller groups in Stockholm and the archipelago. The trips range from half-day hikes to weekend kayak adventures.

Self-service kayak rentals in Stockholm

Several companies operate self-service kayak rental stations in Stockholm; ShareKayak, Kayakomat, and Lek Mer.

The stations are placed in several locations (visit the individual company web pages for detailed maps) and booking is made online or through a dedicated smartphone app.

Kayak in the Stockholm archipelago

Kayaks in the archipelago
Lars Sjöqvist
  • Kajak & Uteliv – Operates two rental shops in the northern archipelago (Furusund and Gräddö) and organizes guided tours and courses.
  • Skärgårdens kanotcenter – Kayak -and canoe rental-shop in Vaxholm. The crafts can be rented for up to two weeks.
  • Kayaking tours with True Nature Sweden – True Nature organizes guided kayaking tours in the archipelago with a professional guide. The Excursions last for up to two weeks.
  • Get Out Kayak – Has three shops spread around the islands of the central archipelago. Rent kayaks, tents, and other outdoor gear for day trips or weekend adventures.
  • Dalarö Kajak – Organizes guided tours in the waters of Dalarö, in the southern Archipelago. Also has rentals for anyone who prefers to explore at their own pace.

Find more tips on where kayak rental shops in the list below.