Everything you need to know about kayaking in Oslo!
Kayaking in Oslo is an exhilarating and fun way to explore the city’s beautiful waterways. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, there are plenty of options for you to enjoy the thrill of paddling through the city and on the Oslo Fjord.
First, here are some keywords for internationals so you can understand the Norwegian kayaking terminology;
1. Kajakktur; kayak tour
2. Våttkort kajakkurs; Norways nationall recognised kayaking licence
3 Kajakkutleie; kayak rental (you need your våttkort to rent a kayak in Oslo
What is the history of Norges Padleforbunds Våttkort?
The “våttkort” or “wet card” is a certification offered by the Norwegian Canoe Association (Norges Padleforbund) that demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to safely kayak in Norway. The våttkort is valid for life and is recognized by all kayak rental companies in Norway. Although we do recommend renewing the Våttkortkurs if you have not been paddling for a few years – use it or lose it as they say!
The reason the våttkort came about was that there was a spate of drownings in the early 2000s so the Norwegian Goverment made plea for someone to help stop this – this is how the Norges Padle Forbund was born and the wetcard system created. Since it’s inception there has not been a single drowning by those who have participated in a våttkort course – now that is a positive outcome! So we can say with some certainty that kayaking in Oslo is very safe. Unless you go sit in front of the Colorline ferry that is…so don’t do that please!
For those new to kayaking courses in Norway (kajakkurs i Norge) are a great way to learn the basics and gain confidence on the water. One popular option is the “Våttkort course” offered by the Norwegian Paddling Association (Norges Padleforbund) through qualified kayak instructors – find out more on their webpage – https://www.padling.no/. The våttkort courses cover everything from basic safety and technique to more advanced maneuvers, as you climb higher up the “våttkort stigen”.
How to get my våttkort and get into kayaking in Oslo, and Norway
1. DntOslo
DNT OSLO AKA the Norwegain Tourist Association also offers guided kayak trips, rental services and våttkort courses in central Oslo. They offer lots of organised activities you can join if you want to get out in nature and meet new people. Find them here: https://www.dntoslo.no/
2. Learn2Kayak
Another great option for beginners and people wanting a very slow and safe introduction is “learn2kayak” who are based in Lysaker, Sollerudstranda. They concentrate on the våttkort kajakkurs but also offer the occasional kajakktur – find more about Learn2Kayak here – https://www.learn2.no/learn2kayak
3. Oslo Kayak Tours
Coming in 3rd is Oslo Kayak Tours, a kayak tour company based at Sjølyst Marina on the outskirts of central Oslo. They have a lot of experience guiding tours on Oslofjord. We would recommend Oslo Kayak Tours to families and groups wanting a safe and chill experience. Kayaking is a great way to explore the city’s waterways and see the city from a different perspective. Their kayak tours are suitable for both beginners and children and include all the necessary equipment Find more about Oslo Kayak Tours here – https://www.oslokayaktours.no/
4. Oslo By Kayak
Oslo By Kayak offers våttkort courses and tours. A relatively new company but one that has a unique touch, connecting people with mindfulness and yoga. More about them here: oslobykajakk
5. Oslo kajakklubb
Oslo Kajakklubb is probaly Oslos largest kajakklubb. They are located on the westside of Oslo, which is known to be the most wealthy area of the city. They have a strong emphasis on competition flat water paddling, with a gym facility and pretty fancy kayak base. They do, however have a lot kayaks, run a lot of våttkort kajakkurs and do also offer kajakk utleie – find more about Oslo Kajakklubb here – https://www.okk.org/
6. Akerselva Padleklubb
If you wanto get into kayaking in Oslo and need kayaking buddies then Akerselva Padleklubb is the best choice! Akerselva Padleklubb is the most central kayaking club in Oslo. They are based in Grønland and in Bjørvika. Akerselva Padleklubbs mission is to get city youth into kayaking and to open up access to the fjord and Akersleva River for all people in Oslo. They are an organisation with a big heart and a lot of integrity – check out more about Akersleva Padleklubb here – https://www.akerselvapadleklubb.no/
Are you ready to grab the goat by the horns and try kayaking in Oslo?!
For those looking to take their kayaking skills to the next level, our kayak courses in Oslo are available to help you improve your technique and become more confident on the water.
For those who want to explore on their own, we offer a wide kayaks and equipment for rent (kajakk utleie), as well as guided kayak trips through the city’s waterways and around the Oslo islands.
No matter your skill level or experience, kayaking in Oslo is a great way to have fun, stay active and explore the city. So, grab your the goat by the horns and head out for a kayak tour on Oslo fjord (kajakktur) and explore Oslos beautiful fjord and city waterfront!
Hope you learnt something new and are ready to go kayaking in Oslo! So, as we like to say at Mad Goats as often as possible “CATCH YOU ON THE WATER!”
Check out this fun little short video of an Australian exploring the Oslo fjord by kayak