Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet is a Danish strait located between the islands of Lolland, Falster, and Møn and the archipelago of Smålandshavet. It is part of the Baltic Sea and connects the Great Belt to the east with the Fehmarn Belt to the west. The strait is relatively shallow and characterized by numerous islands, islets, and shoals, making navigation challenging. Historically, Smålandsfarvandet has been an important shipping route, though it has been largely superseded by larger, deeper channels for modern maritime traffic.

The waters of Smålandsfarvandet are important for biodiversity, supporting various marine species and serving as a significant area for birdlife, particularly during migration periods. Several protected areas and nature reserves are located within or adjacent to the strait. The surrounding coastlines are popular for recreation, offering opportunities for sailing, fishing, and birdwatching.

Major settlements near Smålandsfarvandet include Nykøbing Falster on Falster and Nakskov on Lolland. The strait is spanned by several bridges, most notably the Storstrøm Bridge connecting Falster to Lolland, and the Møn Bridge connecting Møn to Zealand. The economic significance of the strait today is primarily related to local fishing, tourism, and ferry services connecting the islands.