Stockholm: 2-Hour RIB Speed Boat Tour of the Archipelago

This review covers a popular way to see Stockholm’s breathtaking archipelago — a 2-hour RIB speed boat tour that promises thrills, stunning scenery, and cultural insights. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience includes the adrenaline rush from speeding through the water, the chance to view Stockholm’s iconic Old Town from a fresh perspective, and the opportunity to explore both inhabited and wild islands. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, making the ride not just fun but also informative.

A potential drawback? The tour runs rain or shine, which might put off those who dislike getting wet or dealing with weather unpredictability. Also, since it’s a high-speed adventure, it might not be suitable for very young children or expectant mothers.

This experience suits adventure lovers, water enthusiasts, and those eager to see Stockholm from a different angle. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay and want a quick thrill or seeking a memorable way to explore the archipelago, this tour offers great value with plenty of excitement.

Good To Know

Thrilling Ride: The tour offers an adrenaline-filled experience on a fast RIB boat, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Iconic Views: You’ll see Stockholm’s colorful Old Town, Vasa Fortress, and the archipelago’s wild scenery from the water.

Expert Guides: Guides like Adam and PJ are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the ride both fun and educational.

Flexible and Practical: The tour lasts two hours, with options for later booking and full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Weather: Rain or shine, the tour goes ahead unless heavy fog or thunderstorms occur, so be prepared for all conditions.

Great Value: At $166 per person, the price reflects an experience packed with scenery, speed, and culture, often described as worth every penny.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Stockholm from the Water: An In-Depth Look

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off at Rib Stockholm – Archipelago Adventures, located at Strandvägen kajplats 17. Meeting here means you’ll be right in the heart of Stockholm, with easy access to the city’s main attractions. The check-in process seems straightforward, and the staff is described as friendly and helpful.

The tour lasts two hours, which is enough time to cover significant parts of the archipelago without feeling rushed. You’ll be equipped with warm overalls, wind jackets, and beanies—a thoughtful touch considering Swedish weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. The gear is praised for being effective, but some reviews note the suits can feel a bit overkill on warmer days.

What the Tour Includes

Your ticket covers insurance, safety gear, and a guided experience. Guides like Adam and PJ are highlighted for their extensive knowledge, making the ride both fun and informative. Expect storytelling about Stockholm’s history, the islands, and notable landmarks like Vaxholm Fortress.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start: You’ll meet your guide and group at the dock, then step into the RIB boat ready for action.

Passing Gamla Stan: From the water, the Old Town’s colorful 17th-century buildings are even more charming as their reflections shimmer in the water. One reviewer called it “the best way to see the islands as a rib boat can go into small areas and shallow waters unlike the big sailboats,” emphasizing how the boat’s agility allows close-up views.

Speeding into the Archipelago: As the engine roars to life, the thrill begins. Some reviewers describe the ride as “incredibly fast,” reaching speeds of nearly 45 knots. This rapid pace adds excitement, but guides ensure safety and comfort, with many passengers commenting on how well they felt cared for during the high-speed moments.

Inhabited and Wild Islands: You’ll cruise past summer houses, some inhabited, others purely wild. Guides share stories about the history of the islands, often adding humorous anecdotes. One reviewer noted the guide’s enthusiasm made the experience even better.

Sodermalm and Nacka: The boat takes you around these vibrant neighborhoods and scenic shorelines, giving a different perspective than land-based tours. You might spot boats, kayaks, and local summer houses dotting the landscape.

Vaxholm and Bridges: Approaching Vaxholm Fortress, you’ll get impressive views of the historic structure and the waterway. Cruising under iconic bridges like Djurgårdsbrunnscanal adds a sense of adventure and perspective you can’t get from land.

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The Experience on the Water

The thrill of racing across the waves is complemented by the views and storytelling. The boat’s design allows for quick turns and sharp maneuvers, amplifying the excitement. Reviewers repeatedly mention how much fun they had, with some describing it as “the highlight of their trip” and “absolutely worth every cent.”

Safety and Comfort: Despite the speed, the guides are said to be attentive and professional, providing clear instructions and ensuring everyone feels secure. The supplied gear keeps you warm and dry, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

Guide Interaction: Guides like Adam, PJ, and Tobias are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, humor, and ability to balance safety with fun. Many reviews highlight how guides shared interesting facts about Stockholm’s history and islands, making the trip an educational experience as well.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Adventure lovers, boat enthusiasts, and those wanting a quick, exhilarating glimpse of Stockholm’s stunning archipelago will adore this tour. If you’re comfortable with fast rides and weather conditions, it’s a fantastic way to break away from traditional sightseeing.

It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems, due to the high-speed nature of the ride. Also, travelers should bring comfortable shoes, but avoid large luggage or bags, as storage isn’t suitable for bulky items.

Analyzing the Value

At $166 per person, this tour offers more than just a scenic boat ride; it combines speed, sightseeing, and cultural insights into a compact two-hour package. Reviewers feel the price is justified by the quality of guides, the uniqueness of the experience, and the stunning scenery.

Compared to traditional boat tours that might last longer but feel less dynamic, this RIB experience condenses the best parts of the archipelago into an adrenaline-filled ride. Several travelers mention that the 2-hour trip comfortably covers a lot of ground, including Vaxholm, Sodermalm, and the wild islands.

The optional refund policy, which allows cancellation up to 24 hours before, adds flexibility, especially for travelers with unpredictable weather. The option to reserve now and pay later makes it easier to plan without immediate commitment.

Final Thoughts and Who It’s Best For

This RIB speed boat tour in Stockholm offers a lively, scenic, and often thrilling way to explore the archipelago. It’s perfect for travelers craving excitement and authentic water-based adventures, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas.

While it may not suit everyone—particularly families with young children or those sensitive to high speeds—the overall experience delivers excellent value for a memorable day on the water. Expect a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and adrenaline that makes for a genuinely unique Stockholm outing.

If you’re after a fun, fast-paced way to see the city’s islands, this tour might just be your best choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old, mainly due to the high-speed nature of the boat ride.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, and dress in layers or wear the provided warm overalls and wind jackets to stay comfortable in different weather conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine, but it will be canceled in cases of heavy fog or thunderstorms. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and be prepared for all weather.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, the high speeds and outdoor adventure might not appeal to very young children or those with certain health conditions.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the thrill without feeling rushed.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviewers praise guides like Adam, PJ, and Tobias for their friendliness, humor, and informative commentary about Stockholm and its islands.

What is the price, and does it include anything else?
The price is $166 per person, including safety gear, insurance, and a guided boat ride. Gear includes beanies, warm overalls, and wind jackets to keep you comfortable.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the experience accessible for those with back problems?
No, the high-speed ride and boat design may not be suitable for people with back issues or pregnant women.

This RIB speed boat tour offers an energetic, scenic, and fun way to see Stockholm from the water. With expert guides, stunning views, and a dash of adrenaline, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers looking for something memorable and active during their visit.

You can check if your dates are available here: