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Stockholm archipelago by boat: our guide to cruises from Gåshaga Marina

Stockholm archipelago by boat: our guide to cruises from Gåshaga Marina

In Sweden, the Stockholm archipelago represents a vast playground for sailors in search of nature and discovery. Between the islands of the gulf, sheltered channels, and calm anchorages, the region offers recreational sailors a multitude of routes suitable for both short cruises and longer voyages.
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Publication date: 01/12/2026

On the island of Lidingö, very close to Stockholm, Gåshaga Marina is a prime starting point for exploring the area. Easily accessible, the location allows quick access to various destinations: for example, the islands of Vaxholm, Rindö, Grinda, Lådna, and Gällnö…

Gåshaga Marina: a starting point for sailing in the Stockholm Gulf

At the eastern tip of Lidingö, a residential island located just a few kilometres from the Swedish capital, Gåshaga Marina enjoys an accessible environment—both by road and by sea. This makes our marina a popular boarding point for local sailors: in just a few minutes by motorboat or sailboat, the channels open up to the gulf and then to the archipelago, where hundreds of islets and sheltered bays follow one another.

From the pontoons of Gåshaga Marina, sailors can quickly reach several emblematic destinations in the Stockholm Gulf: Vaxholm, Rindö, Grinda, Lådna, Gällnö…

The short distances between the islands make it possible to plan flexible and modular cruises, whether for day trips or multi-day stays. It is possible to combine several stops in a single day or simply remain at anchor and enjoy the moment.

Gåshaga Marina – Port Adhoc Sverige

Preparing your sailing in the Stockholm Gulf

The geography of the gulf and archipelago

The Stockholm Gulf opens onto the Baltic Sea and contains one of the largest archipelagos in Europe. Hundreds of islands and islets succeed one another, forming a constantly changing landscape. For sailors, this configuration allows navigation in varied zones, sometimes open, sometimes very sheltered.

Sailing conditions

Thanks to the numerous channels and sheltered areas, sailing in the Stockholm Gulf is generally simple and comfortable. In this part of the Baltic Sea, currents are limited: sailing is often easy and accessible to everyone. The surroundings of the islands offer multiple anchoring options, allowing sailors to enjoy the experience fully.

As always, the weather can change rapidly: it is advisable to choose a route that allows you to adapt your programme easily if necessary.

Traditional red houses in the Stockholm archipelago

7 days of sailing from Gåshaga Marina: our must-visit stops

Planning a week of sailing from our port on Lidingö? Here is an example of a 7-day sailing itinerary.

Day 1: Discovering Vaxholm by boat

The first stop we suggest for your cruise, the island of Vaxholm is often considered the gateway to the archipelago. The town is organised around colourful houses and lively quays, with an iconic fort located on the neighbouring islet in the background. In Vaxholm, the atmosphere is friendly, and the passing boats set the pace of the day: it is a popular stop for sailors for a walk on land or a pause before heading to wilder areas!

➡️ Sailing from Gåshaga Marina to Vaxholm: approximately 5 nautical miles

Aerial view of Vaxholm Fortress

Day 2: Short sail to the tip of Rindö Island

Continuing eastwards, passing off the coast of Rindö offers a calm setting, marked by a relatively wide channel. The tip of the island allows sailors to enjoy a sheltered environment and an open view of the surrounding islets. This area is often included in itineraries as it serves as a natural landmark before heading towards the central islands of the gulf.

➡️ Sailing from Vaxholm to the tip of Rindö Island: just over 1 nautical mile

Day 3: Swedish stopover on Grinda Island

The third recommended stop on our route, Grinda is one of the most popular destinations in the archipelago. The island is known for its lush landscapes, walking paths, and summery atmosphere. Sailors often stop at Grinda Gästhamn to enjoy the small coves, facilities, and beautiful natural spaces of the island.

➡️ Sailing from Rindö to Grinda: approximately 8 nautical miles

View of the archipelago from Grinda Island

Day 4: At anchor in Langören, near Örsö Island

A few miles away, between Grinda and the small island of Stegon, lies Örsö Island. On its northern coast, the Langören area is sought after for its peaceful environment: the surroundings offer a wild atmosphere, with natural shores and an open landscape towards neighbouring islets. The typical scenery of this part of the Stockholm Gulf is sure to appeal!

➡️ Sailing from Grinda to Örsö: just over 2 nautical miles

Day 5: By sail or motor, heading to Lådna

Comprising a group of small islands, Lådna presents narrow passages, several coves, and rocky outcrops. By boat, the stop is appreciated for the tranquillity it offers to crews, as well as the variety of landscapes.

Even though it is close to Gåshaga Marina (less than 20 nautical miles by direct sailing), it is a stop that promises plenty of change of scenery!

➡️ Sailing from Langören anchorage to Lådna: approximately 7 nautical miles

Day 6: Gällnö

At the end of your Swedish week of sailing, on the return route to the marina, we recommend stopping at Gällnö: this is a lively island, where you will surely enjoy the traditional houses and its distinctive atmosphere.

If you enjoy walking or hiking, this is the ideal stop: numerous small paths allow you to explore the surrounding landscape while appreciating the calm of the location.

➡️ Sailing from Lådna to Gällnö: 5 to 6 nautical miles

Day 7: Sailing from Gällnö to Gåshaga Marina

The final day of the cruise and the return to our marina on the island of Lidingö.

➡️ Return to Gåshaga Marina from Gällnö: approximately 15 nautical miles

In total, this 7-day itinerary from Gåshaga Marina covers just under 50 nautical miles of sailing.

Gåshaga Marina Port Adhoc Sverige
Gåshaga Marina – Port Adhoc Sverige

Other stops to extend your sailing from Gåshaga Marina

On a two-week sailing trip from Lidingö or longer, you will have the opportunity to explore the archipelago further. Here are some suggested additional stops to complement the previous itinerary.

Kärrtorpsviken

Kärrtorpsviken, close to Gåshaga Marina, can be added to a longer cruise from Lidingö. This peaceful anchorage in a bay immediately gives a sense of remoteness.

Between the islands of Storon and Bjuron

After Vaxholm, continuing towards Grinda and the other islands of the archipelago, you may also stop between the Swedish islands of Storon and Bjuron. The anchorage at “Bjuron West,” although near the main ferry route, remains well sheltered from the swell. It can accommodate many boats and offers a magnificent view of the sunset.

Norrviken anchorage

South of Ljusterö Island, the Norrviken anchorage is located in a small bay with an atmosphere different from the previously mentioned destinations. It is a calm stop where landing for a walk is easy.

Caution: beware of the power cable indicated on nautical charts when anchoring!

The southern tip of Grinda

While we recommended stopping at Grinda Gästhamn in the previous cruise itinerary, why not try the “Grinda Hästholmen” anchorage area to the south of the island? According to sailors, the area is well protected from Swedish excursion boats and again offers the opportunity to stay in a beautiful setting.

Storö-Bockö-Lökaö Nature Reserve

If your crew is passionate about nature and you have some time available, you could also head to the Storö-Bockö-Lökaö nature reserve: it comprises over 150 islands, coves, and protected reefs to explore by land or sea. The atmosphere is perfect for contemplative sailing amid the local flora and fauna.

Summary of sailing distances from Gåshaga Marina

Destination to visit from our marina Distance to travel
Gåshaga Marina → Vaxholm 5 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Rindö 6 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Grinda 14 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Langören (Örsö) 14 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Norrviken (Ljusterö) 14 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Gällnö 16 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Lådna 19 nautical miles
Gåshaga Marina → Storö-Bockö-Lökaö Nature Reserve About 25 nautical miles

Your gateway to the Swedish archipelago

For a short Swedish cruise or a longer itinerary, Gåshaga Marina is your best starting point to fully enjoy sailing in the region. Our port provides access to the diversity of the Stockholm Gulf and all the services you need—for seasonal mooring, repairs, or winter storage of your vessel.

Contact our team for more information!

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