Juno

The Classic Canal Cruise from Gothenburg to Stockholm

The Juno, originally launched in 1874, is now the world’s oldest registered ship with overnight accommodation. Travelling down Sweden’s canals on this boat is like stepping into another world. Renovated in 2003, the 29 cabins are nostalgically luxurious and tastefully fitted with brass details and handsome textiles. The bridge deck boasts a covered aft deck offering a perfect view in both sun and rain.

Info

Embark

Embark in Gothenburg.

Day 1: Gothenburg - Lake Vänern

Embark Juno in Gothenburg for your four day “Coast to Coast” cruise. Sail towards the first lock of your journey at Lilla Edet. Built in 1916, this was the first lock in Sweden. From here the cruise continues to the impressive lock staircase at Trollhättan, consisting of four locks and a drop of 32 metres. In Trollhättan there is an opportunity to visit the Canal Museum to learn more about the fascinating history of the Trollhätte Canal. Alternatively take a walk through the beautiful old lock area. Continue to Vänersborg, the last town before you head out into Lake Vänern, Sweden’s largest lake.

Day 2: Lake Vänern - Motala

Early this morning the cruise continues to the first of the 58 narrow locks on the Göta Canal. Early risers can walk the 1.5km from Godhögen to Hajstorp. The Juno then makes her way through two narrow, wood-lined passages and small lakes full of water lilies to the Spetsnäs Canal. From here you will reach Forsvik, with its interesting industrial history. You can also visit Karlsborg Fortress, initiated by Baltzar von Platen and built between 1819-1909. Arrive in Motala, the “the Capital of the Göta Canal” in the early evening.

Day 3: Motala - Söderköping

The Juno will set sail early this morning from Motala. Sail into Lake Boren and on to Borensberg, after which you will see the well-known Göta Hotel, dating back to 1908. At Ljungsbro cross the second aqueduct on your journey and in Berg, pass through a system of 15 locks. Your tour guide will take you on a walk to see the church and the remains of the convent of Vreta. Alternatively you can walk along the canal or take a swim in the warm water of Lake Roxen. From here visit the Carl-Johan lock staircase, the longest on the canal with seven connected locks. Rejoin the ship before steering out on to the lake. The cruise then passes through Norsholm lock, continues to Lake Asplången and reaches Carlsborg Övre Lock. Arrive in Söderköping, where you can take some time to explore at your own pace. Passing through the last narrow lock before Slätbaken, you leave the Göta Canal.

Day 4: Söderköping - Stockholm

At 135 metres long, Södertälje Lock is the largest in Scandinavia. After passing this you reach Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third largest lake. The Viking community of Birka on the island of Björkö is often regarded as Sweden's first town. The town became an important harbour for international shipping and was in use for about 250 years before being abandoned prior to the year 1000. Birka features on UNESCO’S World Heritage list and today you can take an archaeologist-lead tour of the island. Drottningholm Castle, home of the Royal family since 1981, is also found on the World Heritage list. The final lock on our journey, Hammarby Lock, delivers us from Lake Mälaren into Saltsjön. Arrive in Stockholm, Skeppsbrokajen for disembarkation.