Norwegian Maritime Museum

Understanding Norway’s close relationship with the sea is an important part of getting to know the country. Over two centuries of maritime history are on display at the Norwegian Maritime Museum, covering shipping, fishing and marine archaeology. View historic boats from Viking and Medieval times, learn about ancient navigation techniques and take a look at the lives of the pioneering sailors who set out in all weathers to chart the oceans.

The Dugout Boat, believed to be the oldest Norwegian boat in existence, is one of the historic traditional open boats on display. A fascinating contrast can be made with the sophisticated technology used in today’s ocean liners. Learn about different methods of propulsion and the complexities of cargo handling, then take the helm yourself and have a go at steering the remote-controlled models in the pool.

At the Boat Lab you can find out more about the techniques used to reconstruct historic craft. The work of Norwegian artists inspired by the sea is on display in the Gram collection on the first floor.

One of the highlights of many people’s visit is the Supervideograph, a spectacular 20-minute journey along the coastline of Norway, which vividly captures the unique geology of the country’s vast seaboard. The panoramic film spans five screens and is played at regular intervals throughout the day. Admission is included in the museum ticket.

Youngsters will find plenty to amuse them in this lively museum, especially if you plan your visit for a Sunday afternoon, when they can join in with the special children’s boat-building workshops and make their own model boats to take home.

The Norwegian Maritime Museum is on the waterfront of the Bygdøy Peninsula, served all year round by bus and during the summer by ferry from City Hall pier. It is open every day except major public holidays. Certain parts of the museum are currently closed for renovation, reopening in 2014 check the latest situation on the official website.