Sweden is a dream destination for campers and motorhome travelers especially during the summer. A particularly relaxed way to get to the land of red wooden houses and vast forests is the Stena Line ferry from Kiel to Gothenburg. .
In this article, we share our personal experience of the crossing, including tips on booking, prices, cabin options, and the entire process onboard.Whether you are traveling with a motorhome, car, or motorcycle: Here you will find all the important information about the route and why the Kiel-Gothenburg ferry is particularly worth it for campers.
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With Stena Line from Kiel to Gothenburg – The most important aspects at a glance
The ferry from Kiel to Gothenburg is a popular option for traveling to Sweden with a camper in a relaxed way. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of the Stena Line connection at a glance:
Advantage
- You save a significant portion of the drive - and thus also fuel costs (gas/diesel) as well as highway stress.
- You arrive well-rested in Gothenburg : The ferry departs from Kiel around 6:00 PM and arrives in Gothenburg the next morning just after 9:00 AM..
- With the booked cabin , you can sleep comfortably on board and wake up refreshed on Sweden's west coast.
Disadvantage
- The ferry connection can be expensive - depending on the booking period, vehicle size, and number of passengers. Booking early is worth it.
Timetable, Duration & Frequency of the crossings
Stena Line offers a daily ferry connection from Kiel to Gothenburg. Depending on the day of the week and season, the ferry departs from Kiel either at 5:45 PM or 6:45 PM. After about a 14 hour crossing, you will arrive in Gothenburg the next morning - depending on the departure time, at either 9:15 AM or 10:15 AM. This way, you start your adventure in Sweden with the camper well-rested and relaxed.
Booking the ferry: Prices, ticket types & step-by-step booking guide
A one way ticket for one person with a car from Kiel to Gothenburg starts at €171. However, the ticket prices for the Stena Line ferry can vary greatly - depending on the season, booking time, and ticket type. Prices tend to rise significantly during the summer months. Booking early is a good idea! If you're flexible with your travel dates, it's worth comparing several days, as this can save you money.
Overview of ticket types
Economy: The cheapest fare - ideal if you have fixed travel plans. Changes are possible, but there is a rebooking fee of €35. The ticket price will be recalculated according to the current valid price. If the new price is lower, the difference will not be refunded. No refund will be given for a reduction in the number of passengers or vehicles. Cancellations are not refundable.
Flexi: The Flexi fare offers more flexibility. Rebookings are free of charge, and you only pay for the price difference. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before departure, minus a small cancellation fee.
Premium: Premium offers the highest flexibility. Rebookings are also free of charge here, but you will still pay the possible price difference. Cancellations are free of charge up to 2 hours before departure, minus a small cancellation fee.
Book the ferry – Step by step:
You can easily book the ferry online on the Stena Line website.
Select route and travel dates
Choose the Kiel - Gothenburg route and your desired travel date. Optionally, you can add a return trip directly.
Tip: Use the Low-Fare Calendarto view a monthly overview of the cheapest prices.
Specify passengers & vehicles
Enter the number of passengers (adults, children, infants, seniors) and select the appropriate vehicle type, as well as any trailer if applicable.
Select or confirm your travel date
Now, the price for your selected travel date will be displayed. If you use the Low Fare Calendar, you can choose the best day from the monthly overview.
Choose ticket type and cabin
Choose between the fare options: Economy, Flexi, and Premium.
A cabin is mandatory on this route. You can choose from a standard cabin to a Jacuzzi suite. If you're traveling with a pet, special pet-friendly cabins are available. Additionally, you can book extras like meals or drinks if desired.
Enter passenger and vehicle details and complete the booking
Finally, enter your details, complete the booking, and wait for the confirmation via email.
Early booking discounts & money saving tips
With a few tips, you can save on your ferry booking with Stena Line.
- Weekday departures: Tickets are often cheaper on weekdays than on weekends. Check the Low Fare Calendar to find the best rates.
- Special offers: You may find a discount on the special offers page of Stena Line . It's always worth checking from time to time.
- ADAC membership: As an ADAC member, you get a 4% discount on the ticket price.
Cabins, amenities, and onboard dining
Comparison of cabin types
On the crossing from Kiel to Gothenburg, a cabin is mandatory. Stena Line offers various options depending on your needs and budget. If you want a bit more comfort, you can choose a higher category cabin.
Deluxe Cabins: The various luxury cabins on the ships offer additional amenities such as tea and coffee making facilities, a minibar, a fridge, and Wi-Fi. Generally, these cabins provide more space. Some of the Deluxe cabins come with a balcony, access to the outdoor deck, or even a whirlpool. In some, breakfast and a welcome drink are included.
Cabins for pet owners: Traveling with a dog or pet? No problem! There are special pet-friendly cabins where animals are allowed. These are located near a designated outdoor area, so your furry friends can stretch their legs during the journey. Please note: Pets are only allowed in the designated areas and are not permitted to roam freely on the ship.
Standard Cabins: If you're traveling on a budget, Standard cabins are ideal. There are two options: the interior cabin, which is the most affordable choice. These are small but equipped with the essentials: a small bathroom, towels, bed linen, and a TV. Alternatively, there are cabins with a sea view. These are also reasonably priced but offer a bit more comfort and a view of the sea.
Restaurants and bars on board
On board the Stena Line ferries between Kiel and Gothenburg, you'll find various dining options as well as a bar. In good weather, there's also a bar on the sun deck. The easiest way to book dinner and /or breakfast is to add it as an extra directly during ticket booking. According to Stena Line, prices are slightly cheaper when booked in advance compared to onboard. However, we haven't compared prices and therefore can't provide specific information. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. If you have specific food allergies, you can contact customer service in advance.
Note on self-catering: Food brought from home may not be consumed in the bar area. Unfortunately, this is the only public indoor area with seating. In good weather, you can eat outside on the deck, but in bad weather, you'll have to stay in your cabin.
Offers for children & families
For families with children, there is a small play area on board where your little ones can burn off some energy. This area is located on the same deck as the restaurants, bar, and shop.
WLAN on Board
Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas, but the speed is very poor. For better Wi-Fi, you will need to pay an additional fee. In our standard cabin, we also had no signal at all.
Entertainment on board
Depending on the season and day, Stena Line offers an entertainment program with live bands and quiz nights. This usually starts around 8:00 PM. Additionally, between the bar and the shop, you'll find some slot machines where you can try your luck.
Duty-free shopping on the ferry Kiel - Gothenburg
On board the Stena Line ferries from Kiel to Gothenburg, there is a small duty-free shop. The range includes items such as alcohol, perfume, cosmetics, sweets, and other products. Swedish travelers, in particular, take advantage of the opportunity to buy alcohol at lower prices on the way to Gothenburg. However, it’s worth noting that while the prices in the duty-free shop are tax-free, they are not necessarily cheaper than those in a German supermarket.
Arrival & Check-in at the Port in Kiel
Arriving by car or motorhome
In Kiel, follow the signs to "Schwedenkai". Stena Line staff will direct you to the correct waiting line. The check-in in Kiel opens daily at 2:00 PM and closes 30 minutes before departure. Boarding begins Monday to Friday at 4:30 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays at 4:00 PM.
If you're traveling with a vehicle, you don’t need to go into the building to check in. Once the car queue starts moving, you’ll drive past a counter. There, you'll show your valid ID or passport and receive your boarding pass and cabin card. After that, follow the staff's instructions and park your vehicle in the ship's hull.
Cabin Access and Process During the Crossing
After parking your vehicle, take everything you need for the night on board. You won’t be able to access your vehicle during the crossing! It’s best to pack a bag in advance with everything you'll need for the night, including valuables, so you don't forget anything. Before leaving the car deck, it’s a good idea to take a photo of your vehicle's location. Signs are located next to the doors and elevators, making it easier to find your car when you arrive. You can then head directly to your cabin to settle in.
Parking spaces at or near the port
If you want to spend a night in Kiel before your ferry trip, there are several motorhome parking spaces available.
- Camper parking space: The "Förde und Kanalblick" parking area is the most centrally located official parking for campers in Kiel. It lies just north of Schwedenkai, right by the water. The drive from the parking area to Schwedenkai takes about 15 minutes.
- Campsites: Campsites are located outside the city. "Kiel-Falkenstein" is to the west of the "Kieler Förde. Alternatively, you can find the "Möltenort" campsite to the east.
- At the port itself, there is a long-term parking lot. However, we are unsure if overnight stays are allowed there.
Arrival in Gothenburg: What you need to know
Shortly before the ferry reaches the port of Gothenburg, you will be notified via announcement that you can head to the vehicle deck. Take the appropriate elevator or stairs down. If the doors to the vehicle deck are still closed, simply wait there until they open. Stay in your car until the vehicle queue starts moving. This usually happens fairly quickly.
After leaving the ferry, you will directly enter the port area, where a police or passport control takes place. In our previous trips, this process has always been quick and straightforward. Keep your ID or passport ready.
Conclusion: Is the Stena Line ferry from Kiel to Gothenburg worth it?
Du möchtest entspannt von Deutschland nach Schweden? Dann ist die Stena Line Fähre von Kiel nach Göteborg auf jeden Fall eine gute Option! So sparst du dir die lange Fahrt durch Dänemark und über die Öresund Brücke und kommst am nächsten Morgen entspannt an Schwedens Westküste an. Durch die Nachtfahrt kommst du ausgeschlafen in Göteborg an und kannst direkt in dein Schwedenabenteur starten.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Stena Line ferry Kiel - Gothenburg
Can I pay in cash at the port or on the ferry?
Cash payments are not accepted at the ports in Kiel and Gothenburg, nor aboard the Stena Germanica and Stena Scandinavica. Only credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) and debit cards (Maestro) are accepted as payment.
Is a cabin included in the price?
A cabin is not included in the price shown under Economy, Flexi, and Premium. You will need to add a suitable cabin as a paid extra in the next step.
Can I stay in my vehicle during the crossing?
No, this is not allowed on the Kiel - Gothenburg route. You will not have access to your vehicle during the crossing.
Can I book multiple vehicles for one reservation?
Yes, you can add multiple vehicles of the same type to your booking. You can specify the number of vehicles when selecting the vehicle type. If you wish to book multiple vehicles of different types, you will need to contact Stena Line's customer service.
Can I book if I don't have the vehicle registration?
Yes, you can still book without having the vehicle registration. For example, if you're planning to rent a car, you can simply enter "TBA" (To Be Advised) in the vehicle registration field during the booking process under "Passenger Details." Once you have your vehicle registration details, you can add them to your booking under My Pages to avoid any delays at the port.
Can I enter a different number of passengers and Fahrzeugzahl vehicles for the outward and return journeys?
Yes. If you have a different number of passengers and / or vehicles for the return journey compared to the outward journey, click the option "Passenger and vehicle numbers differ for outward and return journeys" in the "Passengers and Vehicles" step. This allows you to enter passengers and vehicles separately for each leg of the trip.
Can I take my pet on the ferry?
Yes, you can bring your pet on board. When booking, simply indicate that you're traveling with a pet. You will need to select a pet-friendly cabin, where your pet can move freely. These cabins are located near a designated pet area. Pets are not allowed in other areas of the ship.
What if I’m traveling with a service dog?
Service dogs are welcome in all port areas and the ship. They have unrestricted access to the passenger decks on all Stena Line routes and ships, and they travel free of charge. When checking in, you’ll need to present the required documentation. Additionally, service dogs must wear their proper harness and identification coat throughout the journey.
Can I cancel my booking, and if so, how?
Yes, you can cancel your booking online at any time before the departure date. Whether you receive a refund depends on the tariff you booked: Economy: No refund, Flexi: Refund available if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, Premium: Refund available if canceled up to 2 hours before the scheduled departure.
How can I change my booking?
You can change your booking online at any time before the departure date by logging into My Pages. My Pages . You can even change your return trip after the outward journey has been completed. Depending on the tariff you booked, change fees may apply (Economy: €35). Additionally, you may be charged any difference in the fare.
Is Wi-Fi available on board?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on the ships between Kiel and Gothenburg. There are both free and paid Wi-Fi options. The free version is not very fast, but sufficient for sending messages. If you need fast and stable internet, you will need to purchase one of the paid Wi-Fi packages.
Is there food and drink available on board?
Yes! The Stena Line ferries between Kiel and Gothenburg have restaurants that offer both dinner and breakfast. You can add dinner and / or breakfast as extras when booking your ticket. There is also a bar where you can relax and enjoy the evening.
