Sweden: Gota Canal Cruise

Your Gota Canal cruise will begin in Sweden’s capital city, Stockholm. Gamla Stan, the Old Town of the city, is an enchanting maze of meandering medieval streets which house delightful buildings. On the first day of the cruise you will witness Sweden’s third largest lake, Lake Mälaren, and the majestic Drottningholm Castle which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uncover the intriguing history of the quaint town of Trosa before arriving at Sävsundet for an overnight stay.

Enjoy a guided tour of the Stegeborg Fortress which is located on a pretty island, looking out over Slätbaken bay. Cruise through the first of the 58 locks at Mem before heading towards the idyllic spa town of Söderköping where you can sample the delectable local ice cream. The boat moors for the night at Berg where you can witness the Carl-Johan lock which is the longest on the Gota Canal cruise.

Before departing Berg you can either take a walk to see the remains of the Vreta convent church and its medieval treasures or if you prefer, amble along the banks of the canal or take a swim in Lake Roxen. Savour Swedish waffles and coffee at the renowned Gota Hotel then continue the canal boat trip to Motala, more familiarly known as ‘the capital of the Gota Canal’. Explore the local Motor Museum and appreciate the great collection of antique vehicles, toys and radios. On a Gota Canal cruise you will also have the opportunity to take a walk to visit the grave of Baltzar von Platen who was a famous Swedish inventor.

During the Gota Canal cruise you will be met by local guides at Vesdtana who will take you on the sightseeing tour to uncover the history of the local Abbey and castle. You will also have some free time to discover the town more independently or enjoy a swim in the lake. Continuing through striking scenery be sure to look out for the Karlsborg Fortress and the Kindbom family who often greet visitors with flowers and songs. After being serenaded during your evening meal at the Berg Canal the boat heads for Hajstorp where you will dock for the evening.

*Variation for departures on 23rd Aug and 5th Sept 2011*

Cruise to Läcko Castle. Enjoy a tranquil journey to the wonderful village of Hällekis where you will take a guided bus tour of Kinnekulle and its imposing table mountain, which can be found on the East Coast of Lake Vänern. Admire the marvellous architecture, breathtaking scenery and places of interest that are steeped in a rich history. Later in the day you can marvel at the majesty of the Baroque Läcko Castle.

On the next section of the Gota Canal cruise you will learn about the art of glass sculpture at the Jema Studioglas. Sailing further on you can admire peaceful Lake Vänern, the largest lake in Sweden, before taking a guided tour of Läckö Castle which sits grandly on the shore. Arrive at Trollhättan where you will spend the night.

*Variation for departures on 23rd Aug and 5th Sept 2011*

Depart Läcko Castle. Sail to Trollhättan where you can explore the Canal Museum and discover its interesting history or if you prefer, take pleasure in the charming surroundings with a stroll around the tranquil lock area. Continue your captivating journey to Gothenburg.

Your final day on the Gota Canal cruise can be spent walking around the Trollhättan Canal Museum and the lovely old lock area. Once you arrive in Gothenburg you can contemplate all of the highlights that you have experienced on your incredible canal boat trip. Final overnight stay in Gothenburg.

Your Gota Canal cruise concludes. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.