Stockholm: Land and Water Tour by Amphibious Bus

Stockholm: Land and Water Tour by Amphibious Bus

This review explores the Stockholm: Land and Water Tour by Amphibious Bus, a popular way to see the Swedish capital in just an hour. This guided ride, operated by Ocean Bus Stockholm, combines a classic city sightseeing route with a splash into the water, creating a dynamic and memorable experience.

What we love most about this tour is the lively and engaging guides who make the journey entertaining while sharing insightful stories about Stockholm’s landmarks. The fact that about half of the tour takes place on the water means you’ll get beautiful views from a unique perspective—seeing the city’s islands, historic buildings, and waterways all in one go.

A potential consideration is the duration—just an hour—which is perfect for a quick overview but might leave those craving more in-depth exploration wanting additional guided experiences. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of fun, convenience, and storytelling, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive snapshot of Stockholm’s highlights.

Overall, it’s best suited for first-time visitors eager for a lively introduction, families with kids who enjoy water rides, or anyone looking for a playful way to see Stockholm without committing to longer tours. Let’s dig into what makes it a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• Unique Land & Water Experience: Combines city sightseeing on land with a splash into Stockholm’s waterways.
• Highly Entertaining Guides: Guides like Sylvia and Mimi are praised for their humor, warmth, and storytelling skills.
• Stunning Views & Landmarks: Pass by the Royal Palace, Djurgården, Gröna Lund, and enjoy postcard-like vistas of the Stockholm Old Town.
• Great Value for a Short Tour: An hour-long guided experience packed with sightseeing, historical tidbits, and fun.
• Comfort & Convenience: The amphibious bus offers a smooth ride on land and water, with warm blankets provided if needed.
• Accessible & Well-Organized: Starts near the Royal Opera, with clear instructions and flexible booking options.

An In-Depth Look at the Stockholm Amphibious Bus Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at a central location, nestled between the Royal Opera House and the Grand Hotel, making it an easy point for most travelers to find. The one-hour duration makes it an ideal introduction to Stockholm, especially if your time is limited. The experience is designed to be fun and informative, blending sightseeing with humor and storytelling.

Once everyone is aboard, the guide kicks off with a quick overview of the bus operation, before heading out to explore. The fact that about 50% of the journey takes place on water is a big highlight. As the bus approaches the water’s edge, there’s a palpable anticipation—guests, especially first-timers, get excited as the vehicle turns into a boat with a splash.

Land Tour Highlights

On land, you’ll cruise through some of Stockholm’s most iconic areas. The route covers:

• Royal Theatre and Royal Palace: The guide shares stories about the Swedish royal family and the history of the palace, which is one of the largest in Europe.
• Birger Jarl Street and Stureplan: Known for its vibrant nightlife and fashionable scene, this stretch is lively and modern.
• Royal Library and Östermalm: These stops give a glimpse into Stockholm’s cultural and affluent residential zones.

Travelers have noted the guides’ ability to bring these sights to life. As Krista described, “Our guide made it so much fun and it was a great way to start our first day in Stockholm after an overnight flight.”

The Water Splash and Cruise

The true thrill begins as the bus shifts from asphalt to gravel, and the driver accelerates for the splash. The music turns up, and suddenly, water hits the windscreen—everyone braces for the fun. As Dmitri appreciated, “The bus splashes into the water and continues the tour like a boat,” which makes the experience unique compared to traditional land-only sightseeing.

Once floating, the boat cruise offers fantastic views of Stockholm’s islands, waterways, and landmarks like the Vasa Museum and Gröna Lund amusement park. Spots like the German Church and Stockholm City Hall are visible, with the latter crowned by the iconic three golden crowns.

The Islands and Landmarks from the Water

Cruising around Djurgården, Skeppsholmen, and Södermalm provides a sense of Stockholm’s layout. You see the Royal Palace from a new angle, alongside the 19th-century ship Af Chapman docked on Skeppsholmen—an interesting piece of naval history.

From the water, you also glimpse the Strandvägen, often called Scandinavia’s most exclusive address. Passing by the birthplace of Stockholm syndrome adds a quirky historical tidbit, making the journey both educational and amusing.

Returning to Land

After about 10 minutes on the water, the bus re-enters the land, engines roaring back to life. The route takes you past Stockholm’s oldest structures and royal parks, giving a well-rounded picture of the city’s past and present. As the tour wraps up, the captain is ready for a photo with guests, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Guides and Atmosphere

From multiple reviews, guides like Sylvia and Mimi shine. Sylvia’s storytelling, humor, and vibrant personality are praised as the tour’s highlight. Mimi’s enthusiasm and friendliness make the ride memorable, with many reviewers noting they felt like part of a fun show rather than just a standard tour.

One reviewer said, “Mimi was so sweet, funny & enthusiastic—she definitely made the trip more than just a bus/boat tour!” These guides don’t just recite facts—they create an engaging, warm atmosphere, making the hour fly by.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but it’s worth noting that:

• It’s not suitable for children under 3 or wheelchair users.
• No pets or oversize luggage are allowed.
• Weather can influence comfort—dress accordingly, as the tour is outdoors and on water.
• You’re not permitted to eat onboard, and punctuality is appreciated—arrive 20 minutes early.
• The tour is conducted in English, with lively narration that keeps everyone engaged.

Value and Pricing

While the price is not explicitly stated in the data, considering the reviews and typical tour length, it offers good value for a guided experience combining land and water. The inclusion of a live guide, the fun of the splash, and the scenic views make it an attractive option for those wanting a quick, engaging overview of Stockholm.

Many reviewers also mention that the tour is so enjoyable that participants wished it lasted longer—highlighting its entertainment value and the quality of guides like Linda and Axel.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This amphibious tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, lighthearted introduction to Stockholm. If you enjoy lively storytelling, scenic water views, and a bit of fun splashing, you’ll love this experience. Families with kids—who enjoy boat rides—will find it especially appealing, as many reviews highlight the fun atmosphere created by guides like Sylvia and Mimi.

It’s also well-suited for travelers looking for a short, memorable activity that provides both education and entertainment. If you prefer longer, more detailed tours, this might be a quick overview rather than an exhaustive exploration, but it’s a superb way to get your bearings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old. Kids who enjoy water rides and engaging guides will generally find it fun, but parents should consider the duration and the nature of the splash.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, the tour can be booked with flexible options, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather, as part of the experience is outdoors and on water. It’s wise to bring a raincoat or warm layers if needed.

Are food and drinks allowed onboard?
No, eating onboard is not permitted.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, including the water splash.

Is the tour in English?
Yes, all guides speak English and provide commentary throughout.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts between the Royal Opera and the Grand Hotel and returns to the same meeting point.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see the Royal Palace, Royal Theatre, Djurgården, Gröna Lund, the Old Town, Stockholm City Hall, and more.

Is the experience worth the price?
Based on reviews highlighting excellent guides, stunning views, and the fun of the water splash, many find it a very good value for a quick, entertaining overview of Stockholm.

Final Thoughts

The Stockholm: Land and Water Tour by Amphibious Bus offers a lively, well-organized way to see the city in just an hour. It’s a seamless mix of land sightseeing, water cruising, and engaging storytelling, making it especially appealing for first-timers and families.

The guides’ humor and warmth elevate the experience beyond simple sightseeing, and the scenic views—plus the splash—add a memorable element that’s hard to match with traditional tours. If you’re after a fun, quick introduction to Stockholm’s landmarks and waterways, this tour is a strong choice.

While it’s a short experience, the combination of scenic views, lively guides, and the thrill of the water splash makes it a worthwhile activity, especially if you want an enjoyable, lighthearted way to kick off your visit. It’s best suited for those who value entertaining storytelling, picturesque scenery, and a bit of water-based fun.

This tour delivers excellent value, memorable moments, and a fantastic first taste of Stockholm, making it a must-try for curious travelers wanting a bit of everything in a single hour.