Oslo: Guided Sightseeing Fjord Cruise On Premium Silent Boat

Premium silent-boat cruise: the guided, higher-end counterpart to the audio-guide cruise.

Overview

Ms Brisen, a silent hybrid-electric ship run by Brim Explorer, leaves from Rådhusbrygge 2 at Aker Brygge and spends two hours working its way around the Oslofjord's closest-in highlights. A live guide talks through the landmarks, history and wildlife as the boat glides past islands, lighthouses and the waterfront, and because the vessel is electric there is no engine drone competing with the commentary or the scenery.

Passengers pass Akershus Fortress, the Opera House, Dyna Fyr lighthouse, Heggholmen fyrstasjon, the Bygdøy peninsula, Hovedøya island and several smaller spots, with photo opportunities along the way. Between the guide's commentary, there is time to simply watch the houses, bathing cabins and water go by.

On board, the ship has three outdoor decks and two warm indoor saloons with large panoramic windows, so it works in cool weather as well as sunshine. A cafe sells soft drinks and freshly baked goods, tap water is included, and the tour suits anyone who wants a calm, seated way to see Oslo from the water without a long commitment.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Rådhusbrygge 2The tour starts at pier Rådhusbrygge 2 1, 0160 Oslo, at Aker Brygge. A safety briefing is given before departure.
2. Akershus FortressThe boat passes the fortress with scenic views across the water, while the guide gives commentary and sightseeing from the deck.
3. Oslo Opera HouseThe route continues past the Opera House for photo opportunities and guided commentary.
4. Dyna Lighthouse and SjøstrandThe ship passes Dyna Fyr and the Sjøstrand area, with more chances for photos and views along the way.
5. Vassholmen and BygdøyThe cruise continues past Vassholmen and the Bygdøy peninsula, keeping close to the shoreline sights.
6. Hovedøya IslandThe boat cruises past Hovedøya island before turning back toward the city.
7. Return to Aker BryggeThe tour ends back at the Brim Explorer pier, with the full trip lasting two hours.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you get the most out of this cruise.

• Dress for the deck. Spending time on the outdoor decks is part of the appeal, so bring a warm layer even on a mild day. If you get cold, the two indoor saloons are warm and have panoramic windows, so you can warm up without losing the view.
• Easy, seated pace. No walking or fitness is involved beyond stepping on and off the boat. Reviewers describe the trip as relaxing and comfortable, with plenty of seating both inside and out.
• Food and drink. Tap water is included, but food and beverages are not. You can buy soft drinks and freshly baked goods from the onboard cafe, and some travellers reported enjoying a cheeseboard and wine on board.
• Quiet by design. Because the ship is electric, the ride is notably quiet, something several reviewers said made the scenery and commentary easier to enjoy. The calm is a recurring reason travellers give for recommending the trip.
• Photography. The route passes the fortress, the Opera House, lighthouses, islands and waterfront houses, so have a camera or phone ready. The outdoor decks and panoramic windows give you views from several angles.
• No hotel pickup. Pickup is not included. Make your own way to Rådhusbrygge 2 at Aker Brygge, the pier the listing gives as the meeting point.

Common issues. Food and drinks cost extra, since only tap water is included in the ticket. Some travellers felt the commentary was not clearly audible from every seating position, so sitting nearer the guide may help if you want to catch everything. One reviewer was bothered by smoking being allowed on board.

Common Questions