Testimony and travel diary of a timeless voyage
Boat: Bavaria 32
Travel dates: August 2025, 3 weeks
Crew: Laurence and her husband (boat skipper) and 3 other holidaymakers (family and friends)
In August 2025, Laurence and her crew set sail for a three-week yacht charter from Stockholm. On board was a crew of friends and family, all driven by the same desire: to discover Sweden in a different way, by sea.
Their experience in Sweden will remain a wonderful memory, both for the beauty of the landscapes and for the unique feeling of freedom that sailing in the Swedish archipelagos provides. “I would have loved to go back the following year, with the same boat and to the same place. It was amazing.”
Sweden, a still undiscovered destination, ideal for sailing
Sweden is not always the first place that springs to mind when you think of chartering a boat. However, we chose it for a very good reason: Sweden is an exceptional playground for sailing.
The boat, a Bavaria 32, perfectly suited to the region for our crew of five, allowed us to sail smoothly. We fully enjoyed the ease and comfort of the boat.
Three weeks of cruising wasn’t too long. I could even have stayed twice as long. I’m surprised there aren’t more boats: it’s an incredible destination, and still very little frequented.
The Swedish archipelagos offer varied itineraries and anchorages accessible only by sea, allowing you to discover wild islands, charming little harbours and even beaches where only a privileged few set foot.
A typically Swedish anchoring tradition: boats often moor bow-to, with a ladder at the front allowing a crew member to step calmly ashore and secure the boat to a tree using a stern line, while the anchor is dropped from the rear.
Unspoiled Nature and Authentic Encounters
What immediately struck me was the omnipresent nature. Hundreds of islands, some tiny, some huge, unfold one after another as you sail. Some are connected to the mainland, while others remain completely wild and untouched.
Wildlife is an integral part of the journey: seals spotted near a quiet anchorage, ever-changing landscapes, and moments of almost unreal silence. It is a true paradise for sailing. The natural surroundings are extraordinary and wonderfully disorienting in the best possible way.
People are lovely. There is a real gentle way of life.
In small ports, we receive a warm welcome. The locals take their time, the restaurants are intimate, and the atmosphere is peaceful. And almost everywhere, a local must-see awaits sailors: the sauna, often located by the water.
Contrary to popular belief, sailing in Sweden is simple and reassuring, even for a crew like ours who had never sailed there before.
No tides, little current, very accurate charts: You must stay focused between the islands, but sailing remains smooth and enjoyable. There are many charming harbours, and we almost always find space, even in the middle of August.
In terms of weather, Sweden offered us a nice balance during our three weeks of sailing: sunny days perfect for swimming, and cooler days reminiscent of Brittany. But that’s part of the charm and variety that this destination has to offer.
Sweden is easy to get to
Another often underestimated advantage is the ease of logistics. From the south of Europe, we were able to reach Stockholm by public transport without any difficulty. Once there, everything runs smoothly: efficient transport, card payments everywhere, modern infrastructure. And contrary to popular belief, it’s easy to stick to your budget. I didn’t find Sweden nearly as expensive as some might think, even the cost of provisioning was very reasonable.
An unusual destination seen from the sea
What really sets this trip apart from other, more traditional experiences is the feeling of absolute freedom. Here, there are no large, crowded marinas or summer crowds. We planned our itinerary based on our desires, discoveries and the weather.
Sailing in Sweden is beautiful, varied and the feeling of freedom is incredible. There is so much to do that there is something for everyone. Three weeks was certainly not too long.
A destination a thousand miles away from the Mediterranean, perfect for travellers seeking peace and quiet like us! The combination of unspoiled nature and practical modernity (modern ports, reliable maps, easy transport) makes the trip both authentic and comfortable.
And after Sweden ?
Once you’ve experienced this type of sailing, it’s hard not to dream of going further. My next dream destination? Norway and its fjords, another unusual and wild destination where I can continue exploring norther Europe… always by sea.
Contact GlobeSailor to organise your next getaway
This Swedish adventure perfectly illustrates what GlobeSailor offers: tailor-made trips combining freedom, discovery and comfort, for memories that will remain etched in your mind long after you return to dry land.
Beyond the classic destinations, our agency also offers unique experiences in more remote and unusual areas: Nordic fjords, wild archipelagos, or unspoiled territories. Discover one of our 180 destinations and contact our advisers.
