Stockholm’s Winter Kayaking Tour: Explore the City from the Water

Stockholm’s Winter Kayaking Tour through the City Centre offers a refreshing way to see Sweden’s capital. For about 3 hours, you paddle through Stockholm’s waterways, which remain accessible as long as Lake Mälaren stays ice-free. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 38 reviews, this experience combines scenic views, expert guidance, and safety in cold weather conditions. The tour departs from Rålis Kayak on Kungsholmen and is suitable for both first-time kayakers and more experienced paddlers, thanks to the availability of single or double kayaks.

This experience stands out with its inclusion of high-quality dry suits and winter water shoes, ensuring warmth and comfort despite the cold. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about Stockholm’s districts and landmarks, making this adventure both scenic and educational. The tour is especially appealing for travelers seeking an active, outdoor winter activity that showcases the city’s waterways from an uncommon perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Duration: Approximately 3 hours including safety briefing and kayaking
Location: Starts at Rålis Kayak on Kungsholmen, Stockholm
Safety gear provided: Dry suits, life vests, waterproof bags, gloves, and winter shoes
Group size: Limited to 10 participants for a personal experience
Suitable for: First-time kayakers and those with some paddling experience
Weather considerations: The tour operates as long as Lake Mälaren is ice-free, and proper layered clothing is recommended

While in Stockholm, here are other experiences we've covered

Starting Point and Meeting Details at Rålis Kayak

The tour begins at Smedsuddsvägen 23, inside a large, easily recognizable shipping container right next to the water on Kungsholmen. Here, guests meet the guide for a 30-minute safety briefing before donning the provided dry suits and safety gear. The meeting point’s central location makes it straightforward to access, and the activity concludes back at this same spot after three hours of paddling.

What Makes the Stockholm Waterways Perfect for Winter Kayaking

Stockholm’s waterways stay navigable during winter as long as the lake remains ice-free. This means paddlers can enjoy gliding beneath bridges, passing colorful buildings, and exploring the city’s enchanting districts like Kungsholmen, Langholmen, Södermalm, and Gamla Stan. The routes include both canal sections and open water, offering diverse scenery and photographic opportunities.

The experience promises to be both scenic and safe, with the use of dry suits that allow paddling in winter without the chill. The guides carefully share insights about the city’s culture and history along the way, making this experience both visually and intellectually stimulating.

Equipment and Safety Features for Cold Weather Paddling

Participants receive top-tier safety equipment to stay warm and dry. The package includes winter dry suits (sizes XS to XL), waterproof gloves (pogies), life vests, and spray skirts. Plus, winter water shoes in sizes 36 to 46 are provided, along with a storage container for luggage.

Guides emphasize the importance of layering beneath the dry suit with thermal underwear, fleece, and warm socks. The safety briefing ensures everyone is comfortable with paddling techniques and aware of safety measures, making cold-weather kayaking feasible and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Route and Highlights of the Tour

This guided paddling experience takes visitors through Stockholm’s scenic districts. As the guide leads the group along the shoreline of Kungsholmen and other neighborhoods, you’ll pass under bridges and alongside colorful buildings. The route offers photo opportunities from perspectives that are usually inaccessible from land.

The guides share specific insights into the city’s history, culture, and architecture depending on weather conditions and group interests. Paddlers enjoy the peacefulness of the waterways in winter, with fewer boats and crowds, making the scenery even more captivating.

While in Stockholm, here are other experiences we've covered

The Unique Experience of Dry Suit Kayaking in Winter

What sets this tour apart is the use of dry suits, which enable paddling comfortably in colder weather. This gear makes winter kayaking a safe and fun option even when temperatures drop. The suits are easy to put on and remove, and guides assist in ensuring everyone is properly dressed.

The warmth and dryness provided by the dry suits allow paddlers to focus entirely on the experience—gliding past historic landmarks, colorful architecture, and serene water landscapes—without discomfort from the cold.

Additional Activities and Optional Sauna Dip

Many participants find that adding the sauna option enhances the experience. Post-paddle, guests can enjoy a sauna session, which is highly recommended to warm up after paddling. Some even choose to take a quick dip in the lake, with ice swimming being a popular, unforgettable activity in winter.

Although not included in the standard tour, the sauna and cold plunge options are available to those who want to extend their experience and enjoy a true Swedish tradition.

Practical Tips for Participants

Participants should bring warm clothing, including thermal underwear, a hat, gloves, and a change of clothes for after the tour. Remember to layer appropriately beneath the dry suit for maximum warmth. Since there’s no nearby toilet at the kayak station, plan accordingly.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers, and participants should be comfortable swimming at least 200 meters. Jewelry, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted, and all safety instructions must be followed.

Customer Satisfaction and Guide Excellence

With a 4.8 out of 5 rating, this tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guides, especially those like Bobby and Emil, who are described as friendly, helpful, and full of interesting facts. Guides are attentive to safety and comfort, making paddlers feel secure despite the winter chill.

Guests of the tour appreciate the personalized experience in small groups of up to 10 participants, which allows for individual attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This winter kayaking experience appeals most to those who are active, adventurous, and curious about seeing Stockholm from the water. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind the cold and want an unconventional view of the city. The inclusive safety gear and guidance make it accessible even for those without prior paddling experience.

However, it’s essential to be prepared for winter conditions, including layered clothing and warm accessories. The tour is also excellent for those wanting to combine outdoor activity with cultural insights, especially if they plan to try the sauna afterward.

The Sum Up: An Unusual and Scenic Winter Adventure in Stockholm

The Stockholm Winter Kayaking Tour offers a unique perspective on the city by water, with the added comfort of dry suits and expert guidance. The experience balances scenic beauty, safety, and personalized attention within a small group setting.

While the cold can be a challenge, proper preparation turns this into an exciting adventure that highlights Stockholm’s winter charm. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to explore the city in a different way, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities and active sightseeing.

The experience provides a memorable blend of nature, architecture, and local culture, making it a standout choice for winter visitors looking to embrace the cold and discover Stockholm from a fresh angle.

Ready to Book?

Stockholm: Winter Kayaking Tour through the City Centre

4.8

(38)

“Bobby was a great tour guide that made the activity very fun with his upbeat spirit.”

— Seb, February 27, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior kayaking experience necessary? No, the tour is suitable for beginners, and safety briefings are provided before starting.

What should I wear for the tour? Participants should layer thermal underwear, fleece, wool socks, gloves, and a winter hat beneath their dry suit.

Can I join the tour if I am not a strong swimmer? Participants must be able to swim at least 200 meters to participate.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What gear is included? The tour provides dry suits, life vests, spray skirts, waterproof bags, winter water shoes, and gloves.

How does the tour handle cold weather? The dry suits and safety gear are designed for winter conditions, ensuring comfort and dryness.

Where do I meet for the tour? The meeting point is Smedsuddsvägen 23 at Rålis Kayak on Kungsholmen, in a large shipping container next to the water.

Can I add the sauna or cold plunge? Yes, these options are available post-paddle, and are highly recommended to warm up and add to the Swedish experience.

What if the water is frozen or weather conditions are poor? The tour only runs as long as Lake Mälaren is ice-free, and weather-related cancellations are possible with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.