Oslofjord, Norway (Scenic Cruising) cruises
Oslofjord port guide
Immortalized by Norwegian painter Edvard Munch in his infamous artwork, The Scream, the 100-km (60 mile) long Oslofjord is a bustling waterway in southeast Norway, where wild swimmers and colorful fauna revel in the unseasonably mild Norwegian temperatures. In the fjord’s innermost section, known as the Bunnefjorden, a succession of islands (each wonderfully unique in character) offer a glimpse at life in this spectacular setting. Some of Norway’s best preserved Viking vessels have been recovered from the fjord’s shores, while WWII enthusiasts may be familiar with Oslofjord as the site where a German cruiser was downed, hampering the Nazi’s planned invasion of Norway.
Top landmarks and sights in Oslofjord.
Cruising around the Oslofjord on your Cunard Queen offers a plethora of sightseeing opportunities. This is one of Norway’s busiest waterways, so you’ll be sharing the fjord with vessels of every size, from the ferries that provide passage between the region’s islands, to the fishing boats that bring in the day’s fresh catch. In summer, when temperatures rise above most of Norway, wild swimmers, canoeists, and kayakers are also a common sight. Depending on how close your Queen sails to shore, you may also glimpse a characterful vacation cottage peppering the coastline or the white sands of a sheltered bay nestled amongst the striking Norwegian greenery.
Things to do in Oslofjord
Cruising the Oslofjord offers the perfect opportunity to admire the continually changing scenery as you relax on board your Cunard Queen. How you spend this time is entirely down to you. A few laps of the promenade deck will unlock views from every angle, while those content to sit and watch the world go by will find plenty of steamer chairs in which to curl up comfortably. A window table in your ship’s buffet offers a warm vantage point in which to savor the scenery over lunch, or with one of our chef’s Signature scones at Afternoon Tea. You can even enjoy the passing landscape from the sanctuary of your own suite or stateroom if your room grade features a balcony.
Oslofjord culture and history
There’s evidence of native settlers in Oslofjord as far back as the Stone Age and the fjord’s proximity to Oslo has made it strategically important throughout history. Several Viking ships have been recovered from its shores and multiple German installations decorated its coastline throughout WWII. The fjord also played a significant role in the Norwegian defense against the Nazis when the sinking of a German cruiser delayed the Germans’ advance, enabling the Royal family and Government’s escape. Today, these same blue waters play host to ferries, fishing vessels, and the occasional cruise ship, providing access into Oslo and beyond to the Baltic Sea.