articles

Boat hostels

As it's surrounded by water and known for its beautiful archipelago, it comes as no surprise that some of the funkiest accommodations in Stockholm don't just have a view of the water, they are on it. Forget traditional hotels; this is the place to actually stay on a boat. There is something intriguing about sleeping on a boat, and the Swedish capital has two places that offer just that. 

Central Stockholm features two different ships that have been turned into hostels, allowing for a truly unique stay in the city. Moored at the island of Skeppsholmen, home to Stockholm's Modern Art Museum and a short walk from downtown, the HI Hostel af Chapman is Stockholm's most classic boat hostel.

 

Built in 1888 in Britain and later used by the Swedish Navy, the fully rigged ship was turned into a hotel in 1949 and is today one of the city's most famous landmarks. There are 300 rooms on board, featuring the traditional, minimalist but cozy, Scandinavian design, and all with a special maritime character.

Near Slussen - the locks between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea – on the trendy island of Södermalm lies The Red Boat Mälaren, a family-owned hostel that has two boats refurnished to accommodate guests. Although often assumed to be only a hostel filled with bunk-beds, the Red Boat Mälaren also offers classier and comfier hotel rooms – with names like 'The Admiral's Cabin' – perfect for a romantic stay on the water.

Even if you don't want to book a room, you can take advantage of the hostel's outdoor floating restaurant, Oasis, which provides an exceptional view out over the city. AB

2008 May 30 2 responses. share this

Back to articles