VisitFyn

Go island hopping in the South Funen Archipelago

The South Funen archipelago is made for island hopping. From island to island, experiences lie close together, each with its own atmosphere, nature and rhythm. Ferries connect them, the sea is always by your side. Start planning your route - it's easier than you'd think!

Havet ved Ærøskøbing set oppefra med færger og sejlbåde spredt ud mellem landtanger og småøer
Photo: Freja Kock Christlieb

One day you’re enjoying what might just be the world’s best organic ice cream on Skarø – the next, you’re cycling along the coast of atmospheric Ærø.

With its many and varied islands, the South Funen Archipelago is made for exploring – whether you’re at the helm of your own boat or holding a ferry ticket in your hand.

Island hopping by boat or ferry
If you have your own boat, Havneguide.dk gives you an overview of marinas and harbours across the archipelago, making it easy to plan your journey.

No boat? Simply hop on a ferry from Svendborg, Faaborg or Rudkøbing, put your feet up and let the captain set the course for a different side of Denmark: the South Funen islands, where it almost feels like every hour has been given an extra fifteen minutes - for slowing down, being present and settling in.

Ferry routes from South Fyn
So, which route will you choose? There are plenty.

From Svendborg, you can sail to Skarø, Drejø, Hjortø and Ærø. You can also take a charming trip on the vintage ferry MS Helge in Svendborg Sound, stopping at Tåsinge.

From Faaborg, the island ferry sails to Lyø and Avernakø, the Bjørnø ferry to Bjørnø, and you can also reach Ærø by ferry.

From Rudkøbing on Langeland, ferries run to Strynø, and ÆrøXpressen takes you to Ærø.

And then there are the little ones...

There are, of course, more islands than those connected by bridge or ferry. In fact, the South Funen Archipelago is home to more than 60 islands, islets and skerries, some of which you can reach on foot at low tide, or even by tractor. Others call for a boat, kayak or canoe.

Have you heard of Lille Rallen, Store Rallen, Vogterholm, Bondeholm, Dejrø or Flæskholm? Zoom in on a map and you’ll discover even more of these curious little islands.

So find your inner sailor and set out to explore. Many are uninhabited, but rich in nature and birdlife.

The easy way to go island hopping

Luckily, some people can’t help but plan great trips. Locals who know the archipelago like their own backyard – and who’ve already put together the best experiences for you.

So you can skip straight to the good part: the freedom, the quiet, and that sense of having time. Everything practical is taken care of. You just have to show up.

It’s easy to book, so you quickly have something to look forward to – as a gift or just for yourself.

To kvinder står med ryggen til og kigger ud fra færge på Øhavet
Photo: Marcel Lesch