Kayaking on the Oslofjord: Small groups, clear water, islands

Three hours on clear water: islands, beaches, and the Oslo skyline from a kayak

A 3-hour kayak trip on the Oslofjord near Oslo with a local guide, small groups and single or double kayaks suited to your ability. You start at Sjølyst Marina with safety instruction and basic technique, then paddle past house boats and modern architecture to small islands and sandy beaches along the Bygdøy peninsula. No kayak experience is necessary. The guide adapts the pace to the group.

The experience

The trip begins at Sjølyst Marina, a sheltered base where you get fitted with a kayak and paddle suited to your size and ability: single or double, depending on what works for you. The guide walks through safety and basic paddling technique before you leave the dock. From there it's a short paddle to the water's main attractions: small islands, sandy beaches, and a view back toward Oslo that includes the picturesque marina with its house boats and the modern architecture on Fornebu. The Bygdøy peninsula's coastline is the other direction, and the guide points out sights as you move.

The pace is built around the group. If you want to paddle hard, you'll be asked to stay with the others and the guide's speed. If you're here to move slowly and take in the water, that works too. Groups stay small, which is how the guide can adapt to who shows up. You'll wear a life vest the whole time, and some salt water contact is unavoidable. Bring a dry change of clothes and suitable paddling gear. The guide carries first aid equipment and communication devices, and all guides are trained in First Aid.

Kayak experience isn't required. You need to be able to swim at least 200 meters, and children are welcome from age 6. The operator offers boats with a capacity range of 50–120 kg, so weight and size are factored in when you're matched to your kayak. Bring sun protection, a watertight bag for valuables, and something to eat and drink during breaks: food and beverage aren't included in the price.

What’s included

• Local guide in your choice of language.
• single or double kayak fitted to your size and ability.
• life vest and shoes.
• safety instruction and basic paddling technique before departure.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 22 May 2027

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (15 to 75 years) · Child (6 to 14 years) · Under 6: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 10 · max 4 per booking

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Oslo Kayak Tours

Is this one for you?You paddle the kayak yourself in a small group led by a guide who adapts the pace to everyone's level, so it suits both people trying kayaking for the first time and those who want a relaxed paddle with company rather than a workout.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 14 years). Under 6: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the Oslofjord like when you're paddling on it?

The Oslofjord near Oslo is clear and sheltered at the Sjølyst Marina base, with small islands and sandy beaches within a short paddle. You'll see house boats in the marina, modern architecture on Fornebu, and the coastline of the Bygdøy peninsula. The guide shares information about these sights as you move across the water.

Do I need kayaking experience to go?

No kayak experience is necessary. The guide gives a safety briefing and teaches basic paddling technique before you leave the dock, and the group's pace is adapted to the guests. You do need to be able to swim at least 200 meters, and children must be at least 6 years old.

Can I choose a single kayak or a double?

The guide matches you to a single or double kayak based on your ability and what fits you best. Boats are available in a capacity range of 50–120 kg, so your size and weight are considered when you're assigned your boat.

What should I bring and wear?

Wear suitable paddling clothes. You'll get a life vest and shoes, but some salt water contact is unavoidable. Bring a dry change of clothes, sun protection, a watertight bag for valuables, and food and drink for breaks. Secure any glasses so they won't fall in the water.