Kapellskar Ferries

The port of Kapellskär plays a key role in the ferry network of Sweden, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 4 ferry routes operated by 3 ferry companies, Kapellskar serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Kapellskar, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Paldiski - Kapellskar, Langnas - Kapellskar connecting Kapellskar with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as DFDS Seaways, Tallink Silja, Finnlines run regular services from Kapellskar, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Kapellskar offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Kapellskar is easily accessible by car or bus from Stockholm, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 hours along route E18. Regular bus services connect from Stockholm's central station to the terminal, making public transportation a convenient option. If driving, ample parking facilities are available at the terminal for both short and long-term stays. For travelers coming from further afield, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is about 100 kilometers away, with rental cars and airport shuttle services offering straightforward connections to the port area.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Sweden, Kapellskar serves as a vital maritime link between Sweden and destinations across the Baltic Sea. This functional port town offers travelers their first glimpse of Swedish efficiency and natural beauty. With its strategic location approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Stockholm, Kapellskar provides an ideal entry point for exploring the Stockholm archipelago and beyond.

The summer months of June through August offer the most pleasant weather for traveling through Kapellskar, with temperatures typically ranging from 15-25°C and extended daylight hours enhancing the Baltic crossing experience. Spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide milder temperatures with fewer tourists, making these months ideal for more relaxed travel. Winter crossings from November through March can be dramatically beautiful but may face occasional weather disruptions, especially during January and February. Ferry services operate year-round, though summer schedules typically offer more frequent departures to accommodate peak season demand.

Kapellskar serves as an excellent jumping-off point for several stunning Baltic destinations. Ferries connect regularly to Naantali in Finland, with crossings taking approximately 8-10 hours across the scenic Baltic waters. Travelers can also reach Paldiski in Estonia in about 10 hours, opening up exploration opportunities in this charming Baltic state. For those seeking island adventures, services to the Åland Islands offer a journey of around 6 hours to this autonomous Finnish archipelago known for its unique culture and beautiful landscapes. The port's strategic position makes it an ideal starting point for an extended Baltic Sea journey.

While Kapellskar itself is primarily a transit hub, the surrounding Norrtälje municipality offers plenty to explore before or after your ferry journey. The nearby coastal areas provide excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing during summer months. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Norrtälje charms visitors with its wooden houses, boutique shops, and cafés serving traditional Swedish fika. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Roslagen coastal trail for hiking, while seafood lovers shouldn't miss sampling locally caught Baltic herring at waterfront restaurants. The Stockholm archipelago, with its thousands of islands, begins right at Kapellskar's doorstep and invites exploration by boat tours.

Kapellskar's name derives from a chapel ('kapell') that once stood on the rocky outcrop ('skär') where the port now operates, serving as a landmark for sailors since medieval times. The port handles over half a million passengers annually, making it one of Sweden's busiest ferry terminals despite its relatively remote location. During the Cold War, the port held strategic importance for Sweden's defense planning in the Baltic region. The waters around Kapellskar freeze during particularly harsh winters, requiring specialized icebreaker assistance to maintain year-round operations.