Göta Kanal - Great Swedish Cruise
A five night Swedish cruise between two seas, along three canals, across eight glorious lakes and through 66 locks. Something totally different yet completely Swedish.
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A five night Swedish cruise between two seas, along three canals, across eight glorious lakes and through 66 locks. Something totally different yet completely Swedish.
The Göta Kanal (Gota Canal) may not be the fastest way to travel between Stockholm and Gothenburg but this is certainly one of the most gracious, beautiful and relaxing forms of transport.
The Great Swedish Cruise will be hosted by the M/S Diana throughout 2014. She is the youngest of the three ships (launched in 1931) and has been meticulously maintained and the main deck cabins have recently been refurbished. The dining room offers delicious traditional Swedish meals and a different view each evening. You will be catered for on a full board basis whilst on the ship: breakfast buffet, two course lunch and three course supper. M/S Diana was 'listed' in 2009 meaning she is now a floating museum.
Much of what is experienced on this trip comes from the unique atmosphere on board. Not to mention that travelling on this hand-excavated canal between Gothenburg and Stockholm is an adventure in itself. Each traveller becomes part of an unmatched history that already stretches over three centuries.
You will see Sweden in summer dress from a new perspective, ranging from the magical forests of Tiveden to the historic castles and manors. You will see cultural landscapes with anonymous farms, animals and fields alongside the Vadstena Monastery Church, Karlsborg Fortress and canal builder, Baltzar von Platen's, grave.
There are several shore excursions included in every cruise and the ship’s guide is never far away to offer expert advice. The main differences between this cruise and the other cruises are the number of excursions and that the boat actually moors up during the night. There are plenty of opportunities to get off and explore the Göta Kanal by foot or bicycle (the ship has a couple you can borrow), especially when passing through locks.
Gothenburg to Stockholm
Day 1
Fly from UK to Gothenburg
Self transfer to the centre of Gothenburg
Check into your hotel
Time to explore some of Gothenburg
You may decide to travel a day or 2 earlier to see more of Gothenburg
Day 2
Breakfast at your hotel
0930 boarding for your Göta Kanal cruise
1000 Departure
The impressive Trollhätten lock staircase, the Canal Museum & a walk through the beautiful Old Lock area
Overnight stop at Vänersborg
Day 3
Cruise across Europe's 3rd largest lake, Vänern.
Guided tour of Läckö Castle built in 1298
The Sjötorp lock system (8 locks), and the history of this part of the Göta Kanal.
Overnight stop at Hajstorp.
Day 4
Sweden's smallest ferry, 'Lina',at Töreboda
At 91.5m above sea level this part of the canal is called 'Berg Kanal' and is the highest point of the Göta Kanal.
Pass through one of just 2 hand operated locks on the Göta Kanal
Visit the historic convent town of Vadstena. Walk the ancient streets and visit the castle and abbey dating from the 15th century.
Motala is the overnight stop. Motala is recognised as the capital of the Göta Kanal with HQ, responsible for operations & maintenance.
Day 5
A morning walk along the Borensberg lock staircase.
Pass through the 2nd hand operated lock.
2 more modern additions to the Göta Kanal are the Kungs Norrby & Ljungsbro aqueducts.
As the boat descends through the Berg lock system - 15 locks, you visit the famous convent town of Vreta.
Cruise across Lake Roxen.
Overnight stop by the idyllic Klämman lock.
Day 6
The Soderkoping locks and the famous ice cream shops.
Soderkoping dates back to the 13th century.
The final lock, Mem, before leaving the Göta Kanal for the Baltic Sea.
Weave through the southern parts of the Stockholm archipelago.
Overnight at the old pilot station in Sävsundet.
Day 7
Enter the Sodertalje lock - Scandinavia's largest.
Enter lake Mälaren - Sweden's 3rd largest and an impressive archipelago of green islands.
Visit the Viking community at Birka. Birka is recognised as Sweden's first town and is now on the UNESCO world heritage list.
Pass by Drottningholm Castle, home to the Royal Family.
Pass through Hammarby Lock and into Stockholm Harbour.
Approx. 1600 arrival in the famous Old Town.
Self transfer to your Stockholm Hotel. Your crew will be able to assist with booking a taxi.
Check in to your hotel.
Day 8
Relaxing breakfast at your hotel.
Perhaps add a night or 2 to see more of Stockholm.
Self transfer to the airport.
Flights back to the UK.
Stockholm to Gothenburg
Day 1
Fly from UK to Stockholm.
Self transfer to the centre of Stockholm.
Check into your hotel.
Time to explore some of Stockholm.
You may decide to travel a day or 2 earlier to see more of Stockholm.
Day 2
Breakfast at your hotel.
0930 boarding for your Göta Kanal cruise.
1000 Departure.
Through Hammarby Lock and into Lake Malaren. Pass by Drottningholm Castle, home to the Royal Family.
Sodertalje lock - Scandinavia's largest and into the Baltic Sea.
The beautiful coastal town of Trosa, a traditional fishing town.
Overnight at Stegeborg.
Day 3
Guided tour of Stegeborg and the fortress ruins. A short but uneven walk.
Enter the Gota Kanal at Mem.
The Soderkoping locks and the famous ice cream shops.
Soderkoping dates back to the 13th century.
Overnight stop at the bottom of the Berg lock staircase.
Day 4
As the boat climbs through the Berg lock system - 15 locks, you visit the famous convent town of Vreta.
2 more modern additions to the Göta Kanal are the Kungs Norrby & Ljungsbro aqueducts.
Pass through the first of 2 hand operated locks at Borensberg.
Motala is the overnight stop. Motala is recognised as the capital of the Göta Kanal.
Day 5
Depart Motala and into Lake Vattern, Sweden's 2nd largest lake.
Visit the historic convent town of Vadstena. Walk the ancient streets and visit the castle and abbey dating from the 15th century.
The 2nd hand operated lock at Tatorp.
At 91.5m above sea level this part of the canal is called 'Berg Kanal' and is the highest point of the Gata Kanal.
Sweden's smallest ferry, 'Lina',at Töreboda.
Overnight stop at Hajstorp.
Day 6
The Sjötorp lock system (8 locks), and the history of this part of the Göta Kanal.
Cruise across Europe's 3rd largest lake, Vanern.
Guided tour of Lacko Castle built in 1298.
Overnight stop at Vanersborg.
Day 7
The impressive Trollhatten lock staircase, the Canal Museum & a walk through the beautiful Old Lock area.
The final lock is Lilla Edet. Originally built in 1607 and refurbished in 1916.
Approx 1600 arrival in Gothenburg centre close to the spectacular Opera House.
Self transfer to your Stockholm Hotel. Your crew will be able to assist with booking a taxi.
Check in to your hotel.
Day 8
Relaxing breakfast at your hotel.
Perhaps add a night or 2 to see more of Gothenburg.
Self transfer to the airport.
Flights back to the UK.
Activities / excursions on the Gota Kanal may be subject to change
Stockholm's largest hotel is located in the heart of Stockholm city adjacent to the Central Station and Arlanda Express as well as near all the best of Stockholm’s favourite spots. It all started with the idea to create a unique, timeless, first-class hotel. By combining the best of Scandinavian architecture and design it would create a source of inspiration for the guests.
Click on the image for more photos.
Three magnificent ships (M/S Diana, M/S Juno and M/S Wilhelm Tham) dating back to the 1800s, offer stunning views over the Swedish countryside. Each ship has a meticulously maintained lounge and dining room, offering delicious traditional Swedish meals and a different view each evening. You will be catered for on a full board basis whilst on the ship; breakfast buffet, two course lunch and three course supper.
The cabins are small, comfortable and tastefully decorated. Most are fitted with bunk beds (some have double beds) and each has a hand basin; WCs and showers are in the corridor. As there is plenty to see and do most guests are only in their cabins to sleep. All cabins are above the waterline with a port hole or window. All bridge and shelter deck cabins open onto the deck.
In 2016 the M/S Diana will serve The Great Swedish Cruise, the M/S Juno will serve The Classic Canal Cruise and the M/S Wilhelm Tham will serve both the West Sweden Coastal Cruise and the Cost to Coast Cruise.
Please click on the image for deck plans and interior pictures.
A small and personal hotel, with just 77 rooms, in the heart of Gothenburg that is bursting with character in an Art Nouveau style. The building dates from 1852 and now houses recently renovated individually decorated rooms across 4 floors.
During the afternoon and early evening you will always find complimentary tea, coffee and cake (known locally as afternoon ‘fika’). Your stay in Sweden is not complete without ‘fika’! Gothenburg Central Station is just 350m away and the shops, bars and restaurants are even closer.
Click on the image for more photos.
Please check the itinerary. Excursions are subject to change.
Gothenburg is a welcoming city and Sweden's biggest port and Sweden's second city. It is also the gateway to the Bohuslän Archipelago. Local recommendations include numerous excellent restaurants, a coffee in a cosy cafe in Haga and a boat trip on the Göta River. Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park and home to an excellent Christmas market, is just a stone's throw away from the city centre.
Gothenburg Tourism website - the Gothenburg Tourist card offers great value for money.
We don't have any set activities here as there is such a variety of activities and excursions that appeal to a range of tastes. Recommendations include a boat trip through the archipelago, a visit to the Vasa Museum and a walk around Gamla Stan (The Old Town).
We suggest you visit the Stockholm Tourism website.
Please note the dates below are the actual cruise dates. Don’t forget to add your nights in Stockholm or Gothenburg at the beginning and end!
The M/S Diana will be serving the Great Swedish Cruise in 2016.
2016
Gothenburg to Stockholm
May
Friday 20th
June
Thursday 2nd
Wednesday 15th
Tuesday 28th
July
Monday 11th
Sunday 24th
August
Saturday 6th
Friday 19th
Stockholm to Gothenburg
May
Thursday 26th
June
Wednesday 8th
Tuesday 21st
July
Monday 4th
Sunday 17th
Saturday 30th
August
Friday 12th
Thursday 25th
2016 prices from
Book before 15th March 2016
2 adults in a double / twin
Main deck £2035 per person
Shelter deck £2035 per person
Bridge deck £3710 per person
1 adult single cabin / room
Main deck £2725 per person
Shelter deck £2600 per person
Bridge deck £3710 per person
Book after 15th March 2016
2 adults in a double / twin
Main deck £2210 per person
Shelter deck £2210 per person
Bridge deck £3135 per person
1 adult single cabin / room
Main deck £2965 per person
Shelter deck £2825 per person
Bridge deck £4060 per person
Notes
Prices for the main deck and the shelter deck are the same as the main deck on the M/S Diana has been refurbished to a high standard. The main deck cabins all have two lower beds and are a little bit bigger than the shelter deck cabins which have 1 lower & 1 upper bed.
Price includes
return flights from the UK
1 night b&b in Stockholm
1 night b&b in Gothenburg
5 nights full board on board (lunch on day 2 to lunch on day 7)
The Göta Kanal (Gota Canal) may not be the fastest way to travel between Stockholm and Gothenburg but this is certainly one of the most gracious, beautiful and relaxing forms of transport.
The Great Swedish Cruise will be hosted by the M/S Diana throughout 2014. She is the youngest of the three ships (launched in 1931) and has been meticulously maintained and the main deck cabins have recently been refurbished. The dining room offers delicious traditional Swedish meals and a different view each evening. You will be catered for on a full board basis whilst on the ship: breakfast buffet, two course lunch and three course supper. M/S Diana was 'listed' in 2009 meaning she is now a floating museum.
Much of what is experienced on this trip comes from the unique atmosphere on board. Not to mention that travelling on this hand-excavated canal between Gothenburg and Stockholm is an adventure in itself. Each traveller becomes part of an unmatched history that already stretches over three centuries.
You will see Sweden in summer dress from a new perspective, ranging from the magical forests of Tiveden to the historic castles and manors. You will see cultural landscapes with anonymous farms, animals and fields alongside the Vadstena Monastery Church, Karlsborg Fortress and canal builder, Baltzar von Platen's, grave.
There are several shore excursions included in every cruise and the ship’s guide is never far away to offer expert advice. The main differences between this cruise and the other cruises are the number of excursions and that the boat actually moors up during the night. There are plenty of opportunities to get off and explore the Göta Kanal by foot or bicycle (the ship has a couple you can borrow), especially when passing through locks.
Gothenburg to Stockholm
Day 1
Fly from UK to Gothenburg
Self transfer to the centre of Gothenburg
Check into your hotel
Time to explore some of Gothenburg
You may decide to travel a day or 2 earlier to see more of Gothenburg
Day 2
Breakfast at your hotel
0930 boarding for your Göta Kanal cruise
1000 Departure
The impressive Trollhätten lock staircase, the Canal Museum & a walk through the beautiful Old Lock area
Overnight stop at Vänersborg
Day 3
Cruise across Europe's 3rd largest lake, Vänern.
Guided tour of Läckö Castle built in 1298
The Sjötorp lock system (8 locks), and the history of this part of the Göta Kanal.
Overnight stop at Hajstorp.
Day 4
Sweden's smallest ferry, 'Lina',at Töreboda
At 91.5m above sea level this part of the canal is called 'Berg Kanal' and is the highest point of the Göta Kanal.
Pass through one of just 2 hand operated locks on the Göta Kanal
Visit the historic convent town of Vadstena. Walk the ancient streets and visit the castle and abbey dating from the 15th century.
Motala is the overnight stop. Motala is recognised as the capital of the Göta Kanal with HQ, responsible for operations & maintenance.
Day 5
A morning walk along the Borensberg lock staircase.
Pass through the 2nd hand operated lock.
2 more modern additions to the Göta Kanal are the Kungs Norrby & Ljungsbro aqueducts.
As the boat descends through the Berg lock system - 15 locks, you visit the famous convent town of Vreta.
Cruise across Lake Roxen.
Overnight stop by the idyllic Klämman lock.
Day 6
The Soderkoping locks and the famous ice cream shops.
Soderkoping dates back to the 13th century.
The final lock, Mem, before leaving the Göta Kanal for the Baltic Sea.
Weave through the southern parts of the Stockholm archipelago.
Overnight at the old pilot station in Sävsundet.
Day 7
Enter the Sodertalje lock - Scandinavia's largest.
Enter lake Mälaren - Sweden's 3rd largest and an impressive archipelago of green islands.
Visit the Viking community at Birka. Birka is recognised as Sweden's first town and is now on the UNESCO world heritage list.
Pass by Drottningholm Castle, home to the Royal Family.
Pass through Hammarby Lock and into Stockholm Harbour.
Approx. 1600 arrival in the famous Old Town.
Self transfer to your Stockholm Hotel. Your crew will be able to assist with booking a taxi.
Check in to your hotel.
Day 8
Relaxing breakfast at your hotel.
Perhaps add a night or 2 to see more of Stockholm.
Self transfer to the airport.
Flights back to the UK.
Stockholm to Gothenburg
Day 1
Fly from UK to Stockholm.
Self transfer to the centre of Stockholm.
Check into your hotel.
Time to explore some of Stockholm.
You may decide to travel a day or 2 earlier to see more of Stockholm.
Day 2
Breakfast at your hotel.
0930 boarding for your Göta Kanal cruise.
1000 Departure.
Through Hammarby Lock and into Lake Malaren. Pass by Drottningholm Castle, home to the Royal Family.
Sodertalje lock - Scandinavia's largest and into the Baltic Sea.
The beautiful coastal town of Trosa, a traditional fishing town.
Overnight at Stegeborg.
Day 3
Guided tour of Stegeborg and the fortress ruins. A short but uneven walk.
Enter the Gota Kanal at Mem.
The Soderkoping locks and the famous ice cream shops.
Soderkoping dates back to the 13th century.
Overnight stop at the bottom of the Berg lock staircase.
Day 4
As the boat climbs through the Berg lock system - 15 locks, you visit the famous convent town of Vreta.
2 more modern additions to the Göta Kanal are the Kungs Norrby & Ljungsbro aqueducts.
Pass through the first of 2 hand operated locks at Borensberg.
Motala is the overnight stop. Motala is recognised as the capital of the Göta Kanal.
Day 5
Depart Motala and into Lake Vattern, Sweden's 2nd largest lake.
Visit the historic convent town of Vadstena. Walk the ancient streets and visit the castle and abbey dating from the 15th century.
The 2nd hand operated lock at Tatorp.
At 91.5m above sea level this part of the canal is called 'Berg Kanal' and is the highest point of the Gata Kanal.
Sweden's smallest ferry, 'Lina',at Töreboda.
Overnight stop at Hajstorp.
Day 6
The Sjötorp lock system (8 locks), and the history of this part of the Göta Kanal.
Cruise across Europe's 3rd largest lake, Vanern.
Guided tour of Lacko Castle built in 1298.
Overnight stop at Vanersborg.
Day 7
The impressive Trollhatten lock staircase, the Canal Museum & a walk through the beautiful Old Lock area.
The final lock is Lilla Edet. Originally built in 1607 and refurbished in 1916.
Approx 1600 arrival in Gothenburg centre close to the spectacular Opera House.
Self transfer to your Stockholm Hotel. Your crew will be able to assist with booking a taxi.
Check in to your hotel.
Day 8
Relaxing breakfast at your hotel.
Perhaps add a night or 2 to see more of Gothenburg.
Self transfer to the airport.
Flights back to the UK.
Activities / excursions on the Gota Kanal may be subject to change
Stockholm's largest hotel is located in the heart of Stockholm city adjacent to the Central Station and Arlanda Express as well as near all the best of Stockholm’s favourite spots. It all started with the idea to create a unique, timeless, first-class hotel. By combining the best of Scandinavian architecture and design it would create a source of inspiration for the guests.
Click on the image for more photos.
Three magnificent ships (M/S Diana, M/S Juno and M/S Wilhelm Tham) dating back to the 1800s, offer stunning views over the Swedish countryside. Each ship has a meticulously maintained lounge and dining room, offering delicious traditional Swedish meals and a different view each evening. You will be catered for on a full board basis whilst on the ship; breakfast buffet, two course lunch and three course supper.
The cabins are small, comfortable and tastefully decorated. Most are fitted with bunk beds (some have double beds) and each has a hand basin; WCs and showers are in the corridor. As there is plenty to see and do most guests are only in their cabins to sleep. All cabins are above the waterline with a port hole or window. All bridge and shelter deck cabins open onto the deck.
In 2016 the M/S Diana will serve The Great Swedish Cruise, the M/S Juno will serve The Classic Canal Cruise and the M/S Wilhelm Tham will serve both the West Sweden Coastal Cruise and the Cost to Coast Cruise.
Please click on the image for deck plans and interior pictures.
A small and personal hotel, with just 77 rooms, in the heart of Gothenburg that is bursting with character in an Art Nouveau style. The building dates from 1852 and now houses recently renovated individually decorated rooms across 4 floors.
During the afternoon and early evening you will always find complimentary tea, coffee and cake (known locally as afternoon ‘fika’). Your stay in Sweden is not complete without ‘fika’! Gothenburg Central Station is just 350m away and the shops, bars and restaurants are even closer.
Click on the image for more photos.
Please check the itinerary. Excursions are subject to change.
Gothenburg is a welcoming city and Sweden's biggest port and Sweden's second city. It is also the gateway to the Bohuslän Archipelago. Local recommendations include numerous excellent restaurants, a coffee in a cosy cafe in Haga and a boat trip on the Göta River. Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park and home to an excellent Christmas market, is just a stone's throw away from the city centre.
Gothenburg Tourism website - the Gothenburg Tourist card offers great value for money.
We don't have any set activities here as there is such a variety of activities and excursions that appeal to a range of tastes. Recommendations include a boat trip through the archipelago, a visit to the Vasa Museum and a walk around Gamla Stan (The Old Town).
We suggest you visit the Stockholm Tourism website.
Please note the dates below are the actual cruise dates. Don’t forget to add your nights in Stockholm or Gothenburg at the beginning and end!
The M/S Diana will be serving the Great Swedish Cruise in 2016.
2016
Gothenburg to Stockholm
May
Friday 20th
June
Thursday 2nd
Wednesday 15th
Tuesday 28th
July
Monday 11th
Sunday 24th
August
Saturday 6th
Friday 19th
Stockholm to Gothenburg
May
Thursday 26th
June
Wednesday 8th
Tuesday 21st
July
Monday 4th
Sunday 17th
Saturday 30th
August
Friday 12th
Thursday 25th
2016 prices from
Book before 15th March 2016
2 adults in a double / twin
Main deck £2035 per person
Shelter deck £2035 per person
Bridge deck £3710 per person
1 adult single cabin / room
Main deck £2725 per person
Shelter deck £2600 per person
Bridge deck £3710 per person
Book after 15th March 2016
2 adults in a double / twin
Main deck £2210 per person
Shelter deck £2210 per person
Bridge deck £3135 per person
1 adult single cabin / room
Main deck £2965 per person
Shelter deck £2825 per person
Bridge deck £4060 per person
Notes
Prices for the main deck and the shelter deck are the same as the main deck on the M/S Diana has been refurbished to a high standard. The main deck cabins all have two lower beds and are a little bit bigger than the shelter deck cabins which have 1 lower & 1 upper bed.
Price includes
return flights from the UK
1 night b&b in Stockholm
1 night b&b in Gothenburg
5 nights full board on board (lunch on day 2 to lunch on day 7)
