See the Oslofjord from the sea side:
Sights and coastal scenery
The many pearls of the Oslofjord
Get up close to both nature and culture, and explore Oslo and the inner Oslofjord aboard a traditional sailing ship!
Fjord cruises on the Oslofjord offer a rare combination of historical sights, vibrant coastal culture and spectacular coastal scenery that makes the fjord one of Norway's most inviting maritime areas. As soon as we set sail, we glide past some of the city's most iconic landmarks.
Akershus Fortress – A journey back in time
The meeting point for fjord tours with us is as central as it is historic: the ships dock at the piers at the foot of the iconic Akershus Fortress, which has stood guard over Oslo since the Middle Ages. Built in the late 13th century, the fortress has withstood sieges and served as both a royal residence and a defensive structure. As we sail past, you can see the solid stone walls that once kept out enemies and imagine life in the Middle Ages, complete with royal banquets and military discipline. The fortress is also the resting place of Norway’s kings, with their royal mausoleums hidden behind the walls.
The Opera, the Munch Museum and Astrup Fearnley – Modern elegance by the water's edge
As we move south, the white marble facade of the Opera House is reflected in the fjord. This architectural gem, opened in 2008, is designed to give the impression of an iceberg floating on the water. The building has become a symbol of modern Oslo, and its unique sloping roof invites both locals and visitors to climb up and admire the views of the city and the fjord. Imagine a building that combines art, culture and nature in perfect harmony.
Lighthouses and historic sea huts
Along the way we pass several lighthouses, such as Dyna lighthouse – a beautiful little lighthouse from 1875. Dyna has guided sailors through narrow straits for over a century, and it is said that the lighthouse keepers once lived here in all weathers, surrounded by the open sea. Along the fjord you will also find old sea sheds and warehouses, reminiscent of the time when the fjord was the lifeblood of trade and fishing.
Lindøya and Nakholmen – Colorful island life
Further out in the fjord we find Lindøya and Nakholmen, known for their picturesque cottages painted in bright colours. These cottages, many built in the early 1900s, provide an insight into the tradition of the people of Oslo seeking out the fjord for recreation. Here you will see small boats moored along the piers, and you can imagine the sound of children's laughter and barbecue meals on long summer days. These islands are living testimony to the fjord's role as the heart of Oslo.
Hovedøya – The forgotten treasures of monastic life
As we sail out among the islands, we approach Hovedøya, an island rich in history and beautiful nature. The ruins of the 12th century Cistercian monastery are one of the island's highlights. Here you can see the well-preserved foundations of the monastery, which was once a center of religion and knowledge. Hovedøya was also a strategic defense area during the Napoleonic Wars, which you can discover through the old cannon positions and fortress remains that are still visible.
Oslo City Hall – The City's Political-Cultural Heart
On our way out through the fjord, we cannot help but notice the monumental Oslo City Hall, with its two characteristic towers. Built between 1931 and 1950, this building has been the center of many of the city's important events, not least the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize. The City Hall is decorated with beautiful murals depicting Norwegian history and culture, and its powerful silhouette stands as a reminder of Oslo's importance both nationally and internationally.
About the image: Barcode before the development of the Vika area and the Munch Museum which is now in the foreground.
Barcode, Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen – Modern Oslo by the sea
As we sail out of the harbor, we encounter the vibrant city life at Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen. This area, which was once an industrial area with shipyards and warehouses, has been transformed into a modern meeting place with exclusive restaurants, shops and art galleries. Along the pier we see large outdoor cafes full of life, with views of boats docking. Tjuvholmen, with its modern architecture and art focus, is home to the Astrup Fearnley Museum – a spectacular building designed by Renzo Piano that almost floats above the water. Here, the modern and the maritime meet in an exciting symbiosis.
Norwegian Maritime Museum, Kon-Tiki Museum and Fram Museum
Continuing along Bygdøy we pass the Norwegian Maritime Museum, which is located right by the fjord. The museum, with its characteristic modern architecture, focuses on Norway's maritime history and culture. From the old ships to the impressive models of sailing ships and steamships, this is a natural stop for those who want to learn more about life at sea. Up close we can see the museum's outdoor collections and piers that extend out into the fjord.
Kon-Tiki Museum
Right next to the Maritime Museum is the Kon-Tiki Museum, dedicated to Thor Heyerdahl's pioneering expeditions. The museum houses the original Kon-Tiki raft and the Ra II, which Heyerdahl used to prove how ancient civilizations could have crossed vast oceans. Even from a distance, this area is a reminder of Norway's close relationship with the sea and voyages of discovery.
The Fram Museum
Another highlight along Bygdøy is the Fram Museum, which houses the famous ship Fram – used by explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen during their polar expeditions. The museum is easily recognizable with its characteristic A-shaped building, and it reminds us of Norway’s role as a nation of explorers and discoverers.
Coastal Landscape and Historic Architecture
Along the entire fjord, we can admire the harmonious balance between Oslo's urban development and its coastal charm. The forest and hills form a green frame around the city, while the water mirror in front gives a feeling of openness and freedom. Traditional wooden houses, old sea shanties and modern architectural masterpieces stand side by side, creating an image of a city that unites past and future in a unique way.
Natural Pearls – From Svaberg to Forested Hills
The coastline of the Oslofjord is a study in natural beauty. From the smooth rocky cliffs that dip your feet into the water, to the green, forested hills that frame the horizon, this is a landscape that captures the soul. In the summer, sunsets burn brightly over the water, while seabirds soar majestically above us. Even the quiet coves tell stories – from Vikings to modern boating.
Wildlife – The Fjord as a Vibrant Ecosystem
If you keep your eyes open, you might be lucky enough to see seals basking on the rocks or porpoises breaking the water surface in playful leaps. Seabirds such as gulls, terns and cormorants are common companions, and the fjord is teeming with life both above and below the water.
Discover the Fjord's Hidden Gems
As we continue on, every bend in the fjord is a new discovery. From the museums and city landmarks to the small islands and natural hideaways, the Oslofjord invites you to experience its rich blend of culture, history and nature. Each attraction along the fjord carries its own story – and together they create a vibrant, dynamic picture of Norway’s capital.
A Holistic Experience
A sailing trip on the inner Oslofjord is about more than sights – it is a journey into the stories of the people, nature and culture that have shaped the area throughout time. Every wave, every breeze and every landmark carries with it the story of the fjord as a living part of Norway's heritage.
Welcome aboard for a journey that doesn't just show you the Oslofjord – but lets you truly experience it!
Sightseeing & Dinner cruise
Book a dinner cruise on the Oslofjord
Book sightseeing on the Oslofjord
