Swedish Seal Safari & Champagne at the Lighthouse

After a short safety briefing, we kit you out with a life vest, offer protective goggles and provide a warm safety suit when the weather calls for it. Then we head for Utklippan—a remote outpost of rocky islands and a lighthouse on the horizon.

Utklippan is one of Sweden’s most important grey seal breeding grounds. The island sits far enough offshore (roughly 25 nautical miles south-east of Karlskrona) that it receives almost no recreational boat traffic. The seals are genuinely wild and genuinely unafraid — because almost no tourist boats come this far.

In suitable conditions, the boat reaches speeds of up to 50 knots.

On arrival, the pace changes completely. Engines off, we drift quietly beside the rocky shores, watching for seals in their natural habitat. With around 45 minutes devoted to seal watching, there is time to settle into the scene, follow the movement in the water and enjoy being out here, far from the mainland.

We then step ashore to explore the island. For those who wish and are able to climb the lighthouse stairs, the reward is a magnificent 360-degree view across the islands and open sea. Champagne and local snacks are served in the tower or at its foot, depending on the size of your group—a moment to linger and take in the surroundings.

The journey home takes the scenic route. Guided stops introduce some of the coastal fortifications that form part of Karlskrona’s UNESCO World Heritage naval port, revealing how these islands helped defend a city built around the Swedish fleet. Depending on timing and the accompanying guide, the route may also take in the site where the Soviet submarine U137 ran aground, along with glimpses of life on the archipelago’s quieter islands.

From the rush of the outward crossing to the stillness of seal watching and champagne by the lighthouse, this is Karlskrona experienced from the sea.

Speed and route are adapted to sea and weather conditions. The lighthouse climb is optional; champagne and snacks may be served in the tower or at ground level.

• RIB boat adventure to Utklippan
• Professional skipper
• Expert tour leader
• Safety gear (provided ashore before you set off)
• A glass of champagne
• Local snacks
• SEK 50 donation* to ARK56 per booking

This tour suits small groups from luxury cruise ships calling at Karlskrona, private travellers who want an exclusive wildlife experience, and anyone who has exhausted the standard day-trip options in southern Sweden. Groups tend to be couples, small families with older children, and corporate guests looking for something memorable beyond a dinner.

The RIB moves fast and the open sea can be choppy. Guests should be comfortable on open water. The boat is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for guests with heart- or back conditions.

Where does the Swedish Seal Safari depart from? The tour departs 50 meters from Karlskrona pier. Karlskrona is a regular port of call for Baltic cruise itineraries.

When is the best time to see seals at Utklippan? The tour runs April through October. Utklippan is home to one of the largest resident grey seal colonies in the Baltic, and encounters with the colony are a consistent feature of the tour throughout the season.

Who should not take this tour? Guests with heart conditions or back problems should not participate. The RIB travels at speed on open water and the ride can be physically demanding. A minimum height of 150 cm is required — this ensures guests fit securely in the seats and can hold the handles throughout the journey.

Will I definitely see seals? Sightings cannot be guaranteed, but Utklippan is home to one of the Baltic’s largest resident grey seal colonies. The colony is a permanent presence on the island throughout the tour season. How many seals will be there when you arrive is part of what makes the moment so striking.

What is Utklippan Lighthouse? Utklippan Lighthouse is a 19th-century lighthouse built in 1868, located on Sweden’s outermost inhabited island in the Baltic Sea, approximately 25 nautical miles south-east of Karlskrona. It is surrounded by one of the most significant grey seal breeding grounds in the region.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children are welcome provided they meet the minimum height requirement of 150 cm. This ensures they can sit securely in the RIB seats and hold the handles throughout the journey. The boat moves at speed and the sea can be choppy; all guests must be able to hold on comfortably.

What happens if the weather is bad? If conditions include strong winds or high waves, the captain will navigate an alternative route at a reduced pace. If conditions are deemed too severe for departure, the tour is cancelled. All decisions on departure are made by the captain on the day.

What is ARK56 and how does my booking support seal conservation? ARK56 is a Swedish conservation organisation focused on protecting seal populations and marine biodiversity in the Baltic Sea. SEK 50 from every Go Nordic booking is donated directly to ARK56’s work — meaning every guest who takes this tour contributes to protecting the very colony they came to see.