Norwegian Maritime Museum, Oslo

The Norwegian Maritime Museum is situated on the Bygdøy peninsula, specifically along Bygdøynesveien on the western side of Oslo. It shares its location with various other museums, such as the Fram Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, and the Viking Ship Museum.

Established in 1914, the museum presents a diverse range of exhibits that delve into coastal culture and maritime history. These displays encompass a wide array of topics, including shipbuilding, boat models, fishing, marine archaeology, and shipping. Visitors can also engage with the multimedia presentation "Maritime Norway" created by Ivo Caprino, and have access to an on-site library that enhances their museum experience. The institution has a specialized marine archaeology department and displays 40+ maritime paintings by famous artists.

Among the notable vessels exhibited, the Stavanger and the Svanen take center stage. The Stavanger, designed by Colin Archer for the Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue, represents a significant contribution to maritime design. The three-masted schooner Svanen, constructed during the winter spanning 1915 to 1916, holds a history of service within the Norwegian merchant fleet.

A pivotal piece of the museum's collection is the Gjøa, which has been on display since 1972. The Gjøa holds historical importance as the vessel that successfully traversed the Northwest Passage during Roald Amundsen's Arctic expedition from 1903 to 1906. This historic ship now finds its home in a dedicated building at the Fram Museum.

Why You Should Visit:
There aren't necessarily many dazzling things to see here, but there are a lot of smaller very intricate boat models on display.
As you climb through the floors, the museum gets better and better until you reach the top where you can enjoy the interactive sailing opportunities.
There are also many informative panels that tell you all about Norwegian maritime history, world maritime trade, and world maritime customs.

Tip:
Walk about the banks of the Oslo Fjord located behind the museum.