Oslofjord

Oslofjord, or Oslofjorden, is a fjord in eastern Norway that forms the innermost inlet of the Skagerrak and reaches the capital city, Oslo. The outer entrance lies near Drøbak, and the inner fjord extends toward Oslo, where the coastline is densely populated and is interlaced with islands, bays and peninsulas. The fjord stretches for tens of kilometers, created by glacial carving in the last Ice Age, and features varying depths and a number of submerged and exposed shorelines. It comprises an outer and an inner section with numerous settlements along its shores including Moss, Drøbak and the capital city itself.

The Oslofjord serves today as a working marine route and a recreation area. It supports commercial shipping and passenger ferries, fishing, sailing and boating. The Oslo region depends on ferries and bridges linking the islands and mainland. The area is a popular destination for boating, swimming, hiking and tourism, with the inner archipelago near Oslo containing historic sites and natural reserves.

Historically, the fjord has played a central role in Norway’s maritime activity. During World War II, Oscarsborg Fortress at the inner Oslofjord delayed the German cruiser Blücher, helping to safeguard Oslo.

Environmental aspects: In the 20th century the fjord suffered pollution from urban and industrial discharge, but wastewater treatment and stricter controls since the 1980s have improved water quality in many parts. The fjord supports diverse marine life, including cod and other species, and remains an important cultural and ecological feature of the Oslo region.