Questions & Answers
We will regularly post questions and answers here. When you have a question, look here, and if you don't find either question or answer here, please reach out to elsa@elundblad.com.
Where prices are mentioned in SEK, the conversion rate to Euro is 1 SEK = 0,09 Euro (as of April 17).
Travel
Q: How do I travel to the boat from Arlanda airport?
A: The quickest and easiest way is to take a taxi from the airport to Årsta brygga where the boat departures from. There is a fixed rate of 1471 SEK for a car taking 4 passenger and 2205 SEK for car taking 7 passenger if you book with Taxi Stockholm. You can call them at +46 (8) 15 00 00 or book via this LINK. You can also contact Elsa on elsa@elundblad.com or via WhatsApp if you need help with booking a taxi. The drive will take around 1 hour if there are no traffic jams. Make sure you have at least 1,5 hours to be sure to catch the boat.
Q: If I want to go from Arlanda airport to Årsta brygga by public transportation?
A: You can either take Arlanda Express (leaves every 15 min and takes 20 min) into Stockholm central station. A one way ticket with Arlanda Express is 340 SEK. There are also regular trains leaving from Arlanda train station. You can check the timetable via the SJ app or via the webpage. Prices with regular train will differ depending on time of day. The ticket will be range between 200-250 SEK approx.
From Stockholm train station you take the commuter train to Västerhaninge and then shifting to bus no. 846 that will take you to Årsta brygga. Download the SL app or visit the webpage of SL to see timetable's etc. There is one ticket that will cover both the train and the bus journey. Single ticket is 43 SEK.
NB! It happens that the commuter trains are late and the bus 846 in Västerhaninge will not wait for a late train. the boat will most often wait for the bus if that is late. So make sure you take a train earlier than the timetable will advise you to take.
Q: How do I travel from Stockholm to the boat?
A: Please the answer above.
Q: Do I need to reserve a seat on the boat to Utö?
A: There is no need to reserve a seat. There is free seating and there is possibility to buy coffee, tea, sandwiches etc on the boat.
Q: Where do I pay the ticket for the boat and how much does it cost?
A: You pay the ticket on the boat with credit card or cash. Or with SL card för those who have that (mainly the Swedish people).
One way ticket is 104 SEK. Keep the ticket. You will need to leave it when leaving the boat upon arrival. You can also by return ticket, just make sure you keep the ticket for your return. There is no discount when buying a return ticket so you can buy a single ticket again when leaving Utö in case you think you might loose the ticket.
Q: Are there prices for senior people on trains, buses, boat?
A: Yes, there are most often a lower price for seniors. Please check when you buy your tickets.
Q: Where can I find a timetable for the boats to Utö?
A: The timetable is now available (see below). The timetable will also be posted in the GG WhatsApp group and be sent out via email to all participants on April 17.
Q: What if I can only arrive in the morning of June 16th?
A: It is possible to catch the first boat in the morning which departs at 08.25. The accommodation and meal package will still be the price for June 15-18.
Q: How far is the venue from where the boat arrives on Utö?
A: The venue is only a few minutes walking distance from the pier to the reception of the venue.
Q: When will I be able to leave Utö on June 18?
A: The Gathering's closing ceremony will end in time for you to catch a boat that will leave at 16.30 from Utö, arriving at Årsta brygga at 17.25.
Q: How much time will I need from Årsta brygga to be able to catch a flight from Arlanda airport?
A: If you go from Årsta brygga with a taxi to Arlanda you will need around 1,5 hour to be on the safe side. If you will be able to catch a flight that leaves around 20.00 on the 18th of June.
Good to know
Q: Can I rent a bike on the island?
A: Yes, there are many bikes to rent and no need to reserve one before arrival. It is higly recommended to rent a bike that will offer you to go and see more of the surroundings further away from the venue. The price is 195 SEK per day and if you book several days you will be offered a discount and the price will then be 100 SEK per day. State the name of Katarina Cars when you rent your bike to receive the discount.
Q: Payment in Sweden and do I need cash in Sweden?
A: Sweden is largly a cashfree country so a valid credit card/payment card is essential for most transactions. However, carrying a small amount of cash can be useful in certain situations.
For instance, while waiting for the ferry to Utö, you might want to grab a coffee or ice cream at the kiosk—and in that case, cash is needed. Swedish kronor, as well as dollars and euros, are generally accepted there, making it easy to make small purchases before your trip.
Q: What clothes should I bring to Utö?
A: Sweden’s weather can be unpredictable—one moment it’s warm and sunny, the next it’s chilly and rainy. To ensure you’re prepared for all conditions, bring clothing that will keep you comfortable no matter the forecast. Warm layers and sturdy shoes are especially useful, allowing you to fully enjoy and explore the island without limitations.
Q: What if I forget to bring something important. Can I get that on Utö?
A: Utö is a truly magical destination, and part of its charm comes from its remote location. However, that remoteness also means limited access to conveniences like a pharmacy, so it’s essential to pack everything you’ll need for your stay. In case you do forget something important we will do our best to support you.
Accommodation & Meals
Q: I am not staying at any of the listed accommodations. How do I register for my meal package?
A: In case you are staying at another accommodation than at the venue, you register for the meal package with Utö Värdshus by sending them an email at bokningen@utovardshus.se stating which meal package you want.
Q: How, when and where do I pay for my accommodation and meals? Can I pay by credit card?
A: If you stay at the venue (Utö Värdhus) you will receive an invoice via email or you will pay upon arrival. The venue will let you know. (See question below for cancellation policy for Utö Värdshus) If you have any questions regarding the payment, Utö Värdshus will gladly support you.
Q: What is the cancellation policy for accommodation and meals?
A: Accommodation at the venue and meals can be cancelled without charge up to 3 days before the start of the Global Gathering.
Extension of my journey to Sweden
Q: Can I extend my stay in Utö?
A: Of course, you can extend your stay in Utö or Sweden. Please reach out directly to the venue in case you want to arrive early or stay on after the gathering.
Q: I have heard about the very Swedish tradition Midsummer. Can you tell me a little about that and if I can experience that whilst being in Sweden?
A: Midsummer is the most Swedish tradition we have. Midsummer Eve is on June 20 in 2025 and in case you want to stay on Utö after the gathering you will for sure be able to attend the big festivities that happens during that day. A traditional Midsummer celebration is about picking flowers to decorate your hair with, sing and dance around the Midsummer pole and there is no Midsummer without a herring lunch with a nice "snaps". Let us know if you are planning to stay in Utö for Midsummer or want to celebrate Midsummer anywhere else in Sweden. We can give you some guidance.
Q: Can I stay at the venue after the Global Gathering?
A: Yes, of course. There are no rooms reserved so make sure you reach out to the venue to secure your accommodation. Accommodation over Midsummer will be filled up very quickly.
Q: Can I bring my family with me to Utö?
A: Of course, your family will find lots to do during the days when you are attending the Global Gathering. They can rent bikes to go around the island, hike along the trails, take a a day-tour into Stockholm or just chill out on a beach.
Payment
Q: How do I pay the participation fee for the Global Gathering?
A: You pay the fee (325€ + VAT) with credit card via this link
Q: How do I pay for meal & accomodation?
A: If you have booked accomodation at Utö Värdshus they will inform you in how you pay for the booking.
