The Oslofjord Visitor Center

The Oslofjord Visitor Centre is located at historic Karljohansvern in Horten. Families can explore life in the Oslofjord through interactive exhibitions, digital experiences and creative activities. Admission is free, and visitors can discover both the marine life beneath the surface and what is being done to protect the fjord.

Create your own fish for the Oslofjord
What is life beneath the surface of the Oslofjord really like? At the visitor centre, you can colour your own fish and watch it swim through a large digital aquarium. You can also try marine-themed games, quizzes and the microplastic catcher, or observe tiny organisms through a microscope. In the creative workshops, children can make items such as reusable shopping bags and crab-fishing lines. Hands-on activities make learning about marine life engaging and accessible.

What is happening to the Oslofjord?
The Oslofjord faces significant environmental challenges. Through exhibitions and educational activities, visitors can learn about marine litter, microplastics, ghost fishing and efforts to restore the fjord's ecological health. The centre also introduces the role of research, technology and practical action in protecting marine life and improving the environment.

Explore historic Karljohansvern
The visitor centre is located within Karljohansvern, a former naval base surrounded by coastal nature and historic buildings. After your visit, take a walk through the nearby woodland or follow the coastal paths. For more maritime history, visit the Royal Norwegian Navy Museum, also located at Karljohansvern. Art and photography enthusiasts can continue to Preus Museum, Norway's national museum of photography.

School programmes and group visits
The Oslofjord Visitor Centre offers educational programmes for school groups, combining hands-on activities with learning about the fjord's wildlife and environmental challenges. Schools with an agreement through DuVerden can attend free of charge, while other school groups pay a group fee. Businesses and organisations can also arrange private group visits with a host. These visits must be booked in advance and are subject to separate charges.

Plan your visit
The visitor centre is located at Kommandørkaptein Klincks vei 7, Karljohansvern, Horten. Regular opening hours are Wednesday to Friday from 11 am to 3 pm and Saturday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. The centre is normally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Extended hours may apply during the summer.

Admission is free for individual visitors and families, with no advance ticket booking required. Educational programmes and private group visits are arranged separately. Visit the centre's official website for current opening hours, activities and group booking information.