History of s/s Blidösund

Blidösund is the name of the strait between the two islands Blidö and Yxlan, in the northern parts of the Stockholm archipelago. In the beginning of the 20th century, the people living there were dissatisfied with the service provided by Waxholmsbolaget, the major operator of passenger ships in the archipelago, for transportation between Stockholm and the two islands. The people decided to form their own company, and ordered a steamer which was delivered in 1911, with the name Blidösund. The competition with Waxholmsbolaget led to what was called the steamer war, where rather unorthodox actions were taken. For example, the local people prevented Waxholmsbolaget's boat from landing at the jetties. After a year, the war was over, and a settlement was reached. Blidösund could continue its traffic without major disturbances until 1960 - but then its time was over. The company ended its operation, and the steamer was idle for eight years. In 1969, a group of enthusiasts acquired the ship, and in June that year, she made her come-back in the waters that she was built for.

Comments to Klas Orsvärn (klasorsv@sics.se).

Back to the home-page of Blidösund.

Last update: April 24, 1995, by Klas Orsvärn (klasorsv@sics.se).