Oslo’s stunning coastline, picturesque islands, and calm fjord waters make it a fantastic city for sailing adventures. Unlike many cities that only offer land-based sightseeing, Oslo’s waters provide a unique perspective of the city’s waterfront, historic sites, and natural surroundings. We love the Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise by Sailing Ship because it balances tradition and comfort—sailing on an authentic vessel with a heated outdoor deck while exploring the fjord’s islands. Plus, it includes a free ferry ticket to Bygdøy, giving you a chance to extend your day with a visit to the area’s museums. For a shorter, more budget-friendly option, the Oslo Fjord a Mini Cruise by Wooden Sailing Ship offers a quick 50-minute glimpse of the harbor’s highlights, perfect if you’re short on time but still want the breeze and views.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through four top sailing experiences in Oslo, helping you pick the right one based on your interests, schedule, and budget. Whether you’re after a leisurely daytime cruise, an evening shrimp feast, or a quick sail with historic sights, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Oslo: Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise by Sailing Ship
This 2-hour cruise is one of the most popular ways to explore Oslo from the water. It features a traditional wooden sailing ship with a heated outdoor deck, making it comfortable regardless of the weather. During the trip, you’ll spot islands like Hovedøya and Dyna Lighthouse, sail through narrow inlets, and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the fjord.
What makes this tour stand out is its multilingual Fjord Sightseeing App, available in 13 languages, which provides engaging commentary about Oslo’s sights and maritime history. Plus, the included free ferry ticket to Bygdøy allows travelers to hop over to the museum island, home to the Viking Ship Museum and Fram Museum—an unbeatable combo for cultural and scenic exploration. Reviewers consistently praise it as a “fantastic way to learn about Oslo from a waterside perspective” with many mentioning the friendly staff and excellent photo opportunities.
This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic experience with educational insights and the option to visit the museum island afterward. It ranks high for its authentic sailing experience and the chance to see Oslo’s islands close-up.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, comfortable cruise offering scenic views and cultural extras—perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a classic sailing adventure in Oslo.
2. 2-Hour Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise by Sailing Ship
For those seeking a more flexible schedule and a budget-friendly price, this 2-hour tour offers a straightforward way to enjoy Oslo’s waters. Departing multiple times during the day, it caters to different itineraries and energy levels. The cruise takes you past Oslo’s prominent waterfront features, including the Oslo Opera House, and sails around iconic islands like Hovedøya, passing the Dyna Lighthouse.
What makes this trip particularly engaging is the live commentary from onboard guides, which enhances your understanding of the landscape and history while you relax on deck. Many reviews highlight how it’s a “beautiful day on the water to tour the city” or a “great way to see Oslo from another perspective.” Some mention bringing warm clothes because it can be chilly out on the water, but the experience’s charm outweighs the weather considerations.
The tour’s value lies in its accessible length and knowledgeable guides, making it perfect for travelers who want a scenic, informal cruise without the extra frills. It’s best suited for those who want a taste of the fjord’s beauty in a short time.
Bottom Line: An easy, informative, and flexible cruise that delivers a memorable view of Oslo from the water—good for travelers who prefer shorter, more casual outings.
3. Oslo Fjord Evening Cruise with Shrimp Buffet on a Sailing Ship
If you’re after a more leisurely and social experience, this 3-hour evening cruise combines scenic sailing with a delicious shrimp buffet. The cruise departs in the late afternoon or early evening, giving you a chance to witness the Norwegian sunset over the fjord. The route takes you past Akershus Fortress, the Oslo Opera House, and the small islets, all bathed in the golden glow of dusk.
What sets this tour apart is its dinner onboard, featuring a shrimp snack, which adds a culinary element to the scenic voyage. The vessel is a traditional wooden sailboat, creating an authentic maritime atmosphere. Reviewers describe it as a “lovely evening” with friendly staff and the chance to see Oslo’s waterfront from a unique angle. Many say the experience of watching the sunset or moonrise from the deck is unforgettable.
This cruise is perfect for romantic evenings, special occasions, or anyone wanting a longer, more relaxed sailing experience with good food. Do note that some reviews mention it can feel crowded, but overall, the ambiance and views compensate for that.
Bottom Line: A charming, scenic evening cruise with dinner that appeals to those wanting a relaxed, social experience with beautiful views and good food.
4. Oslo Fjord a Mini Cruise by Wooden Sailing Ship
If your schedule is tight but you still want a taste of Oslo’s maritime charm, the 50-minute mini cruise is a great option. This shorter tour offers a guided sightseeing experience aboard a classic wooden sailing ship. It’s perfect for travelers who want to fit a boat trip into a busy day or those who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting.
During this quick sail, you’ll see Akershus Fortress, the Opera House, and the Munch Museum, along with the tiny islands and lush green hills of the inner Oslofjord. The tour features an English audio guide on speakers and a free app in 12 languages, making it both informative and accessible. Many travelers mention how cozy and friendly the experience feels, with reviews noting the “beautiful scenery” and “interesting explanations.”
This tour provides a compact, authentic sailing experience at an affordable price, making it suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone short on time looking to enjoy Oslo from the water without sacrificing depth.
Bottom Line: An ideal quick taste of Oslo’s harbor and islands, offering a memorable yet brief maritime adventure for budget-conscious travelers.
How to Choose Your Perfect Oslo Sailing Experience
When selecting your ideal sailing adventure, consider what’s most important—time, budget, ambiance, or specific sights. For a comprehensive experience that combines history, scenic views, and museum visits, the Oslo Fjord Sightseeing Cruise by Sailing Ship is hard to beat. If you’re short on time but still want a scenic tour, the Mini Cruise offers a quick but charming glimpse of the harbor. For a more social, evening experience with excellent food, the Evening Shrimp Cruise is a lovely choice, especially for couples or groups wanting a special night out.
Budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time should lean toward the mini cruise, while visitors wanting an immersive, cultural day should opt for the full-length daytime tours. Weather can be unpredictable in Norway, so dressing in layers and checking the weather forecast before booking is always wise.
Book early, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slot and ensure availability. All these tours are popular, and with so many scenic spots and cultural highlights, choosing the right one will make your Oslo visit all the more memorable.
Oslo offers a variety of sailing experiences that suit different tastes and schedules. From classic daytime fjord cruises to intimate evening dinners, you’ll find an option that fits your style. Whether you choose a relaxed, scenic day or a lively sunset sail, each trip promises a fresh perspective on Norway’s capital from its beautiful waters. Happy sailing, and don’t forget your camera!