Travel to the Koster Islands
Getting there
You can reach the Koster Islands either with your own boat or by taking a passenger ferry. Ferries depart daily from Strömstad's North Harbour, conveniently located in the heart of the town, and operate year-round.
You can find the current ferry timetable here.
Tickets
Ferries to the Koster Islands run year-round from Strömstad Norra Hamnen. You can view the latest timetable here.
Prices
Adults: 148 SEK (return)
Youths (7–19 years): 112 SEK (return)
Children under 7: Free when accompanied by an adult.
Group bookings (20+ people, not during winter): Contact Koster Marin at +46 (0)526-201 10. Must be booked at least three days in advance.
Family Discount (NOTE: Departure before 09:00): The whole family (2 adults and accompanying school-aged children) can travel on a same-day round trip for 280 SEK, provided departure from Strömstad is before 09:00. Return trip must be on the same day with any boat (the whole family must travel together).
When transferring from another mode of transport to the Koster boats, a new fare must be paid (separate tariff applies). Traveling with a travel account balance costs the same as purchasing a round-trip ticket. Regional travel cards valid in Strömstad municipality are also valid on the Koster boats.
For more information about the prices, click HERE.
Where do I buy the tickets?
On board -Tickets can be bought on board with card. The ticket is valid for a couple of days so keep it safe until your return.
Ticket machine - The ticket machines are located on the quay by the Koster boats.
Västtrafik To Go - Download the app Västtrafik ToGo to your mobile device! The ticket price corresponds to the return ticket price, but you can only buy a single ticket in the app (74 SEK). Valid for 180 minutes.
Bringing bikes, kayaks & pets
Bikes: 70 SEK (single ticket), 120 SEK (return ticket)
Kayaks: 240 SEK (single ticket)
Tickets for bikes and kayaks must be purchased onboard.
Please note that space for bikes and kayaks may be limited during high season. You may need to wait for a later departure.
Pets: Are always welcome on the ferry (for free!) but must stay in the outdoor seating areas out of consideration for passengers with allergies.
Strollers, wheelchairs, and luggage are transported free of charge.
Arriving by private boat
Guest harbours are available on both North and South Koster, offering convenient access for those arriving by private boat. For detailed information about facilities and services, click HERE.
Please keep in mind that the Koster Islands are part of Kosterhavet National Park. This protected area is home to a unique and sensitive marine environment, and we kindly ask all visitors to navigate and anchor with care.
To help you explore the archipelago responsibly, we recommend downloading the Nature Guide for Boating, which provides valuable tips on sustainable boating practices and how to enjoy the Koster Islands while preserving their natural beauty.
Cable ferry (Kosterlänken)
The Kosterlänken cable ferry offers a charming and convenient connection across the Koster Strait, linking North Koster and South Koster.
During the summer season (June to mid-August), the ferry operates daily with staff on board, making it easy for visitors to explore both islands. Outside of the summer months, travel between the islands is still possible via the Koster boat, which runs between Västra Bryggan on North Koster and Långegärde on South Koster. A ticket is required, but children up to 13 years of age travel free of charge.
For those who enjoy a bit of spontaneity, there’s even a chance to hitch a ride with a local using the cable ferry - perfect if you're not in a hurry and want to experience island life like a local.
Tickets (20 SEK/each) can be purchased using a card at the ticket machine located at the quay, or via SMS. Please note that cash is not accepted.
For current information and operation, visit Strömstad Kommun.
What is open on the islands?
The magnificant nature is, of course, open all year around.
Summer season: Restaurants, galleries, bike rentals, mini-golf, open gardens, and more.
Off-season (mid-August to Easter): Limited services - we recommend bringing your own picnic.
The grocery store ICA Nära Affärn and the visitor centre Naturum remain open year-round.
To see what's open when you arrive, please visit this website (in Swedish).
Luggage storage
Valvets Syservice & Skomakeri, just by the harbour, offers luggage storage for several hours. For more information regarding prices and availability, please contact: +46 (0)72-211 11 24.
Parking
City centre:
Max 24 hrs - The parking lot in front of the hospital (Västra Hamngatan), as well as at Torskholmen. Circa 5 minutes from the Koster ferries.
7 days - At the parking lot Canning, which can be found at the very end of the street Västra Hamngatan, past the hospital.
View the city map with parking information here.
Free parking buses (summer)
Parking in the city centre can be limited during the summer months. We recommend using one of the long-term parking lots outside the city and taking the free shuttle bus that runs frequently to and from the harbour.
You can view the complete timetable and bus stop map here.
Is there a visitor centre on the islands?
Naturum Kosterhavet is a visitor centre located next to the harbour in Ekenäs on South Koster. It’s open year-round and serves as a great starting point for exploring Sweden’s first marine national park. Here, you can discover fascinating exhibits, get expert tips on what to see and do, and learn more about the unique marine life of the area.
Click here to see the current opening hours.