The Oslofjord Visitor Centre is located at historic Karljohansvern in Horten. Families can explore life in the fjord through interactive exhibitions, digital experiences and creative activities. Admission is free, and visitors can learn about marine life and how we can help protect the Oslofjord.
Send your own fish into the Oslofjord
What does life beneath the surface really look 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 their own reusable shopping bags and crab-fishing lines.
Hands-on activities make discovering marine life both fun and educational.
What is happening to the Oslofjord?
The Oslofjord faces serious environmental challenges. Through exhibitions and educational activities, you'll discover how human activity affects marine life. Learn about marine litter, microplastics and ghost fishing, and explore the efforts being made to restore the fjord's ecological health. The centre also shows how research, technology and practical measures can contribute to a cleaner, healthier Oslofjord.
Combine your visit with a walk around Karljohansvern
The visitor centre is located in the historic Karljohansvern area. Afterwards, explore the nearby woodland and coastal paths, where nature meets the history of the former naval base. To discover more about Horten's maritime heritage, visit the Royal Norwegian Navy Museum. You'll also find Preus Museum, Norway's national museum of photography, in the same area.
School programmes and group visits
The Oslofjord Visitor Centre offers educational programmes for school classes, 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 must be booked in advance and have 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 opening hours may apply during summer.
Admission is free for individual visitors and families, with no advance ticket booking required. Educational programmes and private group visits must be booked separately. Check current opening hours, activities and group booking information on the official website.