Sailing by ferry from Gothenburg to Kiel is the perfect way to travel between Sweden and Germany. This relaxing overnight ferry route offers comfort, convenience and stunning views of the North Sea, ideal for those continuing their road trip across Europe or simply avoiding airport stress. With cabins, dining and pet-friendly options, it’s a smart alternative to flying.
Booking your Gothenburg to Kiel ferry with goFerry is smooth and straightforward:
- Enter your travel dates
- View and compare different options (operators, times, vessels)
- Choose a price
- Enter passenger details
- Pay and receive your booking confirmation
Benefits of booking with goFerry
- Compare real-time prices and schedules
- Book vehicles, pets and cabins in one go
- Instant confirmation
- Clear cancellation policies
- Secure payments and multilingual support
Choose goFerry for a smooth booking process and total peace of mind!
Useful tips for travelers
- Book cabins early, especially during summer or holiday weekends
- Bring snacks and drinks or pre-book meal packages
- Pet owners: Arrive early and check in with all documents
- Use the overnight trip to save on a hotel night
- Take advantage of duty-free shopping onboard
- Make sure your vehicle's tank is fueled
How long is the ferry from Gothenburg to Kiel?
The ferry journey from Gothenburg to Kiel takes approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes. It’s an overnight sailing, so you’ll rest while crossing, and arrive refreshed the next morning.
What is the distance between Gothenburg & Kiel by ferry?
The distance by sea between Gothenburg and Kiel is roughly 240 nautical miles (approximately 445 kilometers).
How often do ferries travel from Gothenburg to Kiel?
There is 1 daily departure from each port, operated by Stena Line. Ferries typically leave in the early evening and arrive the following morning. Year-round service makes this a reliable route in all seasons.
What amenities are available on board?
Stena Line ferries on this route are equipped for both leisure and business travelers:
- Comfortable cabins (economy, family, deluxe)
- Buffet and à la carte restaurants
- Bars and lounges
- Shops and duty-free
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Kids' play zone
- Conference and work-friendly spaces
- Pet-friendly cabins (book in advance)
Transport options in Gothenburg & Kiel
Gothenburg
The ferry terminal is at Majnabbe Port, around 5 km from the city center.
- Tram: Take Line 3 or 9 to Chapmans Torg, then walk to the terminal (10 mins)
- Bus: Line 50 and others stop nearby
- Taxi: ~10 minutes from central Gothenburg
- Car: Well-signposted via Route E6 and E45. Parking available near the port
Kiel
Ferries arrive at Schwedenkai Terminal, close to the heart of Kiel.
- On foot: The terminal is a short walk to downtown and Kiel Hauptbahnhof (main station)
- Bus or train: From Kiel Hbf, regional trains and buses reach Hamburg, Lübeck, and beyond
- Taxi:
- Car: The A7 and A215 highways connect Kiel to major German cities
- Car rentals are available at the port and downtown
FAQs about your journey
Can I board the ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes, you can travel without a vehicle and walk on board with luggage.
Is there a restaurant or food service on the ferry?
Yes. Multiple dining options are available, from buffets to snacks and bars.
Are there family cabins or child-friendly areas?
Yes. Ferries offer family cabins and play zones for kids.
Can I work onboard during the crossing?
Absolutely. Wi-Fi, desks and quiet lounges make it ideal for digital nomads or business travelers.
Do I need a passport or ID for this ferry?
- EU/EEA citizens can travel with a national ID or passport
- Non-EU travelers must carry a valid passport and may require a Schengen visa
Make sure to check your country’s entry requirements before traveling.
How much luggage can I bring?
There's no strict limit for vehicle passengers. Foot passengers can bring standard travel luggage. Additional items may require an extra fee.
Are pets allowed on the ferry?
Yes. Book a pet-friendly cabin or use onboard kennels. Bring all required EU pet documents (passport, chip, vaccination proof).
Can I bring my car, van, or motorcycle?
Absolutely. This route is very popular with road-trippers and freight drivers. Vehicle transport is available for all types. Just book early for space.
