Stockholm Archipelago

Stockholm Archipelago ... over 30,000 islets and islands / rocks to enjoy. Unspoilt and clean - a paradise for cruising boats who enjoy natural surroundings. Unhurried and friendly.

Sailor remarks

Initial impression when looking at charts of the Archipelago tend to frighten the first time visitor - the sheer complexity of islands. It is a veritable maze. But once visited - you start to realise that the islands are mostly surrounded by deep channels and navigable by most yachts. Entry into the islands for a yacht as mine - 8m LOA and 1m draft is literally at any point I wish from seaward. I have sorted out basically 3 variations .... southern, mid and northern entry points. If interesting navigation is your wish - which is my hobby ! then there are plenty of narrow channels to squeeze through ...
The facilities on thne islands tend to be basic, as much to cover the prohibition of on-board toilets etc. Rubbish is strictly controlled and all plastic must be kept and disposed of in special designated locations. All other rubbish can be deposited in bins provided.
Many of the islands have protection orders on for fauna and wildlife - this is excellent news as it means protection of the environment and little chance of development or change.
Myself as a visitor - appreciate the efforts of Swedish Authorities to maintain this area and I for one will re-visit many times. My next trip over will be via Alands Islands ... as I intend to sail north to Estonian Island of Hiiuma, then to Mariehamn in Alands and then to Arholma into the Archipelago again. This is in June 2008 ... and then in August 2008, I shall be back in there again via Gotland similar to previous August 2007 (the trip report this article is based on).
SBC Online - the club I am a co-founder of, has an active Baltic section as well as members from various areas incl. USA .... and meetings occur in Baltic giving extra interest to the proceedings ... This year - 2008 - it is expected that distant members from UK will join in the Baltic fun.
So I hope that over the coming 2008 season to be able to post more about the Baltic ...

• Nice trip report in the archipelago here