Cruise across the beautiful waters of Lake Mälaren aboard elegant early 20th‑century vessels to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Drottningholm. The boat journey itself is part of the experience, taking you from central Stockholm to one of Sweden’s best‑preserved royal environments.
Choose between a round trip, a one‑way ticket, or selected departures that include lunch on board.
The Most Charming Way to Reach Drottningholm
Travelling by boat is the most atmospheric way to visit Drottningholm. The route crosses the calm waters of Lake Mälaren on board the historic vessel M/S Prins Carl Philip. During peak season (June 25–August 22), some departures are operated by our faster Express Boat.
Along the way, you’ll pass leafy shorelines, historic buildings and elegant waterfront villas before arriving at the palace grounds.
Lunch and Café on board
All departures with M/S Prins Carl Philip offer a café serving sandwiches, pastries, snacks and drinks.
On selected departures with M/S Prins Carl Philip, you can also pre‑book lunch on board - a relaxed and enjoyable way to enhance your excursion.
Departure Points and Vessels
Departures with M/S Prins Carl Philip leave from Klara Mälarstrand in central Stockholm and also stop at Fridhem, Mälarhöjdsbadet and Kungshättan before arriving at Drottningholm.
If you board at one of the intermediate piers, please raise the semaphore signal on the dock to let the captain know you wish to board.
During peak season (June 25 – August 22), we run daily extra departures with our Express Boat (M/S Nya Hjelmare Kanal). The Express Boat is a faster vessel focused on transport between Stockholm and Drottningholm. If you’re looking for the classic heritage vessel experience, we recommend choosing a departure operated by M/S Prins Carl Philip. The operating vessel is shown when you book.
Drottningholm Palace - a Royal World Heritage Site
Drottningholm Palace is Sweden’s best‑preserved 17th‑century royal residence and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. Inspired by French architectural ideals, the palace grounds include the main palace, the formal gardens, the Chinese Pavilion and the Court Theatre.
Since 1981, Drottningholm Palace has been the permanent residence of the Swedish Royal Family.
Things to see at Drottningholm
There is something for both adults and children to enjoy. Plan your visit according to your interests – here are some highlights:
- Drottningholm Palace – Explore the magnificent state rooms on your own or join a guided tour in Swedish or English. Family tours are available for younger visitors.
- The Chinese Pavilion – This charming 18th‑century pleasure palace, built in 1753, is located in the far end of the park and can be visited with an audio guide.
- Drottningholm Court Theatre – The world’s oldest theatre preserved in its original condition. Visits are by guided tour only, where you’ll discover the unique historic stage machinery.
- The Palace Park – Open year‑round, featuring formal Baroque gardens and a romantic English landscape park, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.
Admission tickets to the Palace, the Chinese Pavilion and the Court Theatre can be added when booking your boat ticket.
