Stena Ferry to Gothenburg from Frederikshavn

We had two options to get to Sweden from Denmark - one was the bridge over from Copenhagen to Malmo and the other a ferry. Now, I know the bridge would have been an impressive drive across the water(and widely recommended by those that have done it) but the ferry from Frederikshavn to Gothenburg was equally impressive and meant less driving (something that we are doing a lot of) - plus we love a ferry!

 

Having spent a couple of days in the most northern tip of Denmark we drove from our campsite (Rabjerg Mile Camping) the short distance (approximately 30km) to the ferry port. We were greeted by friendly staff (we are getting the impression that the Danes are very friendly) and waited in line to board the Stena ferry. There is something always exciting about boarding the boat and the anticipation of heading out onto the water.

 

After a short wait we boarded. The ferry was full and seating was quickly snapped up. We initially settled ourselves at a table and chairs indoors but soon opted to sit on deck and fully appreciate the glorious weather and views - we weren't disappointed!

 

The journey from Frederikshavn to Gothenburg took about three and a half hours. It was a beautiful sunny day and the crossing was calm. We spent most of our time out on deck appreciating the weather and trying to spot the odd marine mammal - unfortunately we were out of luck, although Tim did see a small pod of porpoise very far off.

 

The ferry itself is quite luxurious with numerous cafes and restaurants plus the usual shop. There are cabins on board but, with such a short time, they aren't needed. For those that need entertaining, there is a cinema and lots of arcade games. The girls loved the play area. A large area at the back of the boat is dedicated to games and activities for children. There are table tennis tables, table football and a large chess board - all of which were in constant use and free! The girls managed a couple of games on the table tennis tables. Younger children can play in a smaller room with a soft area and building blocks. It was great to see so many kids interacting and having fun together.

 

The arrival into Gothenburg is certainly an impressive one. For the last half an hour of the trip, before you approach the terminal, the ferry glides past the Gothenburg archipeligo, a string of islands that sit off the coast. On a sunny day, like we had, the water was glistening and the rocky islands looked idyllic. Thought to self: must go to see them for ourselves.