The steamship Mariefred is unique the world over. Nowhere else do we find a ship maintaining its original route for 100 years, still equipped with her original steam-engine and with very few changes on board.

- As time goes by the more exclusive she gets, and we welcome an increasing number of enthusiastic passengers, says Claes Insulander, her captain since 1978.
- - It´´ s like going to a museum only more fun. We can show people the ancient technique from the turning of the last century and make them enjoy a trip at sea from bygone days.
Claes Insulander has spent a quarter of a century on board the s/s Mariefred.
- A matter of prestige to start with, I thought it sort of glamourous to master a steamer, he says. Later I became genuinely interested in the steam-engine technique itself and also much impressed by the profound interest displayed by the society activities around the boat. She has become an important cultural asset.

But things weren´ t always easy-going, especially as regards money. Sailing seasons in the summer time were usually OK, but with small or no means to spend on maintenance or necessary repairs.
When in November 2000, businessman, engineer and steamship enthusiast KG Knutsson decided on a considerable donation to Mariefred it was a day to remember.

- The happiest day in my life, declared the captain. We have managed so far to keep our nose above water, but with great difficulties and now we can face the years to come with confidence and joy.
The donator and Claes Insulander had met a few years earlier in connection with the restoration of Frithiof, an absolute beauty of 115 years of age, now in charter service in Stockholm. The two men have a common interest in the steam-engine technique and old steamers and in keeping alive this remarkable heritage to generations to come.
The KG Knutsson donation constitutes the backbone in the future life of Mariefred after decades of financial problems, losses and setbacks.

" Claes Insulander – for a quarter of a cenntury captain onboard".

THE MARIEFRED CENTENARY may 24, 2003 Preliminary Programme 09.30 s/s Mariefred sails from Stockholm 10.50 The Sandviken Bridge Society congratulates the boat and her crew 12.50 Horses and hornists appear on the Ekensberg bridge 13.20 s/s Mariefred commands a procession of steamers and other boats in to the town of Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle. Festivities all over town for several hours in honour of their own centenarian. 16.30 Mariefred and some of the other boats leave for Stockholm accompanied by spectacular fireworks.