DIY Oslofjord Island Hopping by Ferry
Island hopping in the Oslofjord might sound expensive, but here's the secret: you can do it using Oslo's regular public transport ferries. No tour groups, no inflated prices - just you, a ferry ticket, and access to some of Norway's most beautiful islands. The best part? These ferries run year-round and cost as much as a day's worth of city bus rides.
TL;DR
- Use regular Oslo public transport tickets or an Oslo Pass for ferry access
- Ferries depart from Aker Brygge near the Nobel Peace Centre
- Ferry B1 runs year-round to Hovedøya, Bleikøya, Gressholmen, Lindøya, and Nakholmen (5 main islands, with two stops on Lindøya)
- Ferry B2 operates summer-only to Hovedøya, Lindøya, and Nakholmen
- One-day tickets cost around 132 NOK (about $12.50 USD)
- Best time to visit is May through September for full schedules and swimming weather
- Download the Ruter app for tickets and real-time schedules
Getting Started: Ferry Basics and Tickets
The Oslofjord ferry system is part of Oslo's regular public transport network, operated by Ruter. You catch ferries from Aker Brygge, right by the Nobel Peace Centre. If you're coming by metro, get off at Nationaltheatret station and walk toward the water.
Two main ferry lines serve the islands. Ferry B1 operates year-round and takes you to Hovedøya, Bleikøya, Gressholmen, Lindøya, and Nakholmen (5 main islands, with two stops on Lindøya). Ferry B2 operates summer-only to Hovedøya, Lindøya, and Nakholmen. In summer, ferries run from early morning until late at night. Winter schedules vary by location with some ferries offering 14-15 departures daily.
Your regular Oslo transport ticket works on these ferries. A one-day pass costs around 132 NOK, providing unlimited travel comparable to a day's worth of city bus rides. The Ruter app makes buying tickets and checking schedules easy. You can also buy physical tickets at the Oslo Visitor Centre or convenience stores like Narvesen and 7-Eleven.
Hovedøya: Your Perfect Starting Point
Hovedøya sits approximately 10 minutes by ferry from Aker Brygge, depending on the specific route and conditions, making it the closest island to downtown Oslo. This makes it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The island combines history, nature, and swimming spots in one compact package.
The big draw here is the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. You can wander through these ancient stone walls and imagine what monastic life was like centuries ago. The island also has cannon batteries from its military days, adding another layer of historical intrigue.
For swimming and relaxation, head to the two beaches on the west side. The water gets surprisingly warm in summer, and the rocky coastline offers plenty of spots for sunbathing. There's also a protected flora reserve if you're into botany. Klosterkroa café opens in summer near the monastery ruins, serving drinks and light meals with a view.
Ferries to Hovedøya run frequently, at least hourly, with increased departures during peak times. The first departure is at 6:30 AM and the last at 6:25 PM. The journey typically takes between 6 and 15 minutes, so you can easily pop over for a few hours or spend the whole day.
Exploring the Residential Islands: Lindøya and Beyond
Lindøya gives you a glimpse into Norwegian summer cabin culture. The island is dotted with charming red and yellow wooden cabins that serve as summer homes for Oslo residents. Walking through feels like stepping into a storybook Norwegian village, complete with well-tended gardens and friendly neighbors.
The island offers excellent hiking trails with fjord views and plenty of picnic spots. There are swimming spots with good facilities, plus there's a small shop and even a football pitch in the middle of the island. Look for the Christiania meridian monument - it marks an important surveying point from Norway's mapping history.
Bleikøya and Nakholmen are primarily residential islands with summer cabins. While some facilities are restricted to cabin owners, both islands offer good swimming and sunbathing spots. These islands give you a quieter experience if you want to escape crowds, though there's less in terms of organized activities or historical sites.
The ferry schedule covers all these islands on the same route, so you can easily hop between them in a single day trip.
Wild Adventures on Langøyene
Langøyene stands out as the only island where wild camping is permitted. This makes it popular with younger crowds and anyone wanting to extend their island experience overnight. The island was originally two separate islands but is now connected by a large flat grassy area.
The camping culture here creates a unique atmosphere. You'll find grill parties, a small summer festival, and a generally festive vibe during peak season. The sheltered beach and shallow swimming area on the southwestern side make it family-friendly too.
Beyond camping, Langøyene offers football fields, sand volleyball courts, and a kiosk for supplies. There's even a separate beach designated for naturists. The terrain provides nice short hikes with different viewpoints around the island.
If you're planning to camp, bring your own gear and supplies. The island has basic facilities but limited services. Check the weather forecast before committing to an overnight stay, as conditions can change quickly on the fjord.
The Connected Islands: Gressholmen, Heggholmen, and Rambergøya
These three connected islands pack surprising history and natural beauty into a compact area. Gressholmen served as one of Oslo's main airports - you can still see remnants of this aviation history. Today it's better known for swimming spots, particularly on the east side.
Heggholmen features one of the oldest lighthouses in the inner Oslofjord. The lighthouse still operates and provides a striking landmark visible from the ferry. These islands also serve as important habitat for birdlife, with Rambergøya and northern Gressholmen designated as nature reserves and seabird nesting areas.
For swimming, try the east side of Gressholmen or the south side of Rambergøya. In summer, Gressholmen Kro restaurant serves cold drinks and fresh seafood with waterfront views.
The connected nature of these islands means you can explore multiple landscapes and historical sites in one visit. The ferry B2 serves this area during summer months only.
Practical Tips for Your Island Adventure
Ferry schedules are punctual, so arrive on time. Norwegian public transport runs like clockwork, and ferries will leave even if you're running a few minutes late. Check ruter.no for updated timetables, especially for the last ferry back to the city center.
On busy summer days, the last ferry might fill up. But here's insider knowledge: if you're at the dock by departure time, they'll keep running until everyone gets aboard. No one gets stranded, but you need to be there when scheduled.
Pack basics for your trip. Most islands have limited or no shops, so bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Swimming gear is essential in summer - the water temperature can reach comfortable levels for Nordic standards.
Exploring OSLO FJORDS Using Ruter Ferries - The Cheapest way to Explore Norway 🇳🇴For A Full Day
The period between May and September offers the best experience with full ferry schedules and warm weather for swimming. Winter island hopping is possible but more limited, with fewer daylight hours and restricted ferry service.
Weather can change quickly on the fjord, so check forecasts and dress in layers. Even summer days can turn cool and windy on the water.
FAQ
How much does island hopping cost in Oslo? A one-day public transport ticket costs about 132 NOK (around $12.50 USD) and covers all ferry trips plus city transport. If you have an Oslo Pass, ferry rides are included at no extra cost.
Which island should I visit first? Hovedøya makes the perfect starting point. It's closest to Oslo (6-15 minutes), runs year-round, and offers history, beaches, and facilities. You can easily combine it with other islands on the same day.
Can I camp on the Oslo islands? Only Langøyene permits wild camping. All other islands prohibit overnight camping. Langøyene has basic facilities and a relaxed atmosphere popular with younger visitors.
What's the ferry schedule like in winter? Winter schedules are much more limited with only 7-8 departures daily compared to frequent summer service. Some ferry lines like B2 don't operate at all in winter. Check ruter.no for current schedules.
Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance? No advance booking for a specific time is needed. You can board with any valid Oslo transport ticket, which can be bought via the Ruter app or from kiosks like Narvesen and 7-Eleven. Tickets can also be purchased on board the ferries.
What should I bring for a day of island hopping? Pack water, snacks, sun protection, and swimming gear. Most islands have limited shops or none at all. Bring layers as weather can change quickly on the fjord, even in summer.