Ocean Bus Stockholm: Amphibious Sightseeing Tour

If you are planning a trip to Stockholm, you might find it hard to decide whether to explore the “Venice of the North” by bus or by boat. Both have their merits, but what if you didn’t have to choose? After nearly 30 years of exploring every corner of Sweden, I’ve seen many tour concepts come and go, but the Ocean Bus remains one of the most entertaining ways to see the city. It is an amphibious vehicle that seamlessly transitions from the paved streets of Östermalm into the Baltic waves – giving you the best of both worlds in a single, 75-minute ride.

A bus that thinks it is a boat

When the Ocean Bus first appeared on the streets (and waters) of Stockholm, it caused quite a stir. I remember stories from the early days when concerned locals actually called the emergency number 112, reporting a bus that had “accidentally” driven into the water!

Over the years, the sight of a blue 10-ton bus splashing into the waves has become a beloved part of the Stockholm skyline. It’s no longer an emergency – it’s one of the city’s most popular sightseeing highlights. Even though I usually prefer exploring on foot, there is something undeniably joyful about that “splashdown” moment that puts a smile on everyone’s face.

The best of Stockholm from two perspectives

The tour starts at Djurgårdsbron, the gateway to Stockholm’s greenest island. From here, you’ll cruise past iconic landmarks on land before the real magic happens. The route typically includes:

The Royal Dramatic Theatre (Dramaten) with its stunning gold accents.
The high-end boulevard Strandvägen.
A spectacular splashdown into the water.
Floating past the Vasa Museum and the Nordic Museum.
Views of Gröna Lund amusement park and Skeppsholmen from the water.

The live guides are known for their humor and deep knowledge of the city. While I haven’t sat in the passenger seat of the Stockholm tour myself yet, the Ocean Bus spirit runs in the family – my own daughter actually worked as a guide on their tours in Gothenburg. I know firsthand how much training and passion goes into making these tours both educational and incredibly fun.

Book your Ocean Bus adventure

Experience the famous “splashdown” for yourself! This is one of the most popular tours in Stockholm and often sells out during the summer months. I highly recommend booking in advance to secure your seat on the amphibious bus.

Check availability for your dates

Insider tips from 30 years of Sweden travel. This guide contains affiliate links (marked with ➔) to help support my work at no extra cost to you.

Practical tips for your amphibious tour

If you are planning to join the Ocean Bus, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your trip:

Seasonal availability – The tour usually runs from April to October. Since Stockholm winters involve a lot of ice, the bus stays on dry land during the colder months.
Language – The tour is guided in English, making it perfect for international visitors.
Duration – The entire experience takes about 75 minutes – the perfect length to see the highlights without taking up your whole day.
Starting point – The bus departs from Djurgårdsbron. It’s easy to reach by tram or a pleasant walk from the city center.

And here is a little insider tip: Try to get a seat toward the middle or back if you want a great view of the water spraying up during the splashdown!

Stockholm sightseeing tickets

Want to combine the Ocean Bus with other attractions? You can often find great deals and flexible cancellation policies when booking through my partner GetYourGuide.

View all Stockholm boat and bus tours

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

Whenever friends ask me for a unique recommendation in Stockholm, the Ocean Bus is always on the list. Whether you are traveling with kids (who will absolutely love the splash) or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for a new perspective, this is a must-do.

Stockholm is a city defined by its relationship with the water. Seeing it from the deck of a bus that is also a boat is, in my opinion, the most “Stockholm” thing you can do!