Private Oslofjord Island Hopping: Hovedøya & Nakholmen Day Tour from Oslo
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can walk 3 km on mixed terrain; minimal elevation change makes this accessible for families and older travelers.
Overview
Swap city sidewalks for salt air on a private four‑hour island‑hopping tour through the Oslofjord. Visit Hovedøya’s 12th‑century monastery ruins and Nakholmen’s picture‑perfect coastal cottages, with ferry and tram travel handled for you.
Private Oslofjord Island Hopping: Hovedøya & Nakholmen Day Tour from Oslo
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The tram squeals gently as it edges toward Aker Brygge, and the city spills away into glassy water and a scatter of small islands. Salt air pushes through the open boat hatch as you step aboard the ferry; gulls wheel and call like punctuation. Within minutes the skyline of central Oslo is a receding postcard, and you’re moving into the softer geography of the Oslofjord—rocky skerries, low pine, and beaches where locals come to swim and sip coffee.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring a swimsuit and towel
Summer waters are inviting—pack a quick‑dry suit and towel if you might swim from Hovedøya’s sandy spots.
Dress in layers and a windproof shell
The fjord can be brisk, even on sunny days; a light insulated midlayer and windproof jacket keep you comfortable on deck.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails are short but rocky and uneven; sturdy sneakers or day hikers reduce slip risk on wet rock and roots.
Bring a charged camera and spare battery
Golden hour on the islands yields high‑contrast scenes that eat battery life—pack a backup or power bank.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals bobbing near ferry lanes
- Common eider ducks and coastal gulls
History
Hovedøya was home to a Cistercian monastery from the 12th century; its ruins offer a direct link to medieval Norway and later military uses of the islands.
Conservation
The Oslofjord is managed for both recreation and biodiversity; stick to marked paths, carry out any trash, and avoid disturbing nesting birds during spring.
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Adventure Hotspots in Oslo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks wind and light rain on the open ferry and exposed shorelines.
spring specific
Swimsuit and quick‑dry towel
For summer dips off Hovedøya’s beaches and quick shoreline swims.
summer specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and foot protection for rocky beaches and forest paths.
Daypack with water bottle
Carries layers, snacks, and water for the 3 km of walking and time between islands.