Telemark Canal

Experience the World Heritage from the deck of M/S TELEMARKEN

A unique journey through the heart of Telemark

M/S TELEMARKEN is the only canal vessel that can sail both the eastern and western routes through the entire “Waterway to the World Heritage” between Skien and Notodden – as well as the iconic locks of the Telemark Canal.

Here, spectacular nature, living industrial history, and authentic Norwegian cultural heritage are combined into an experience perfectly suited for groups, tour operators, and individual travelers.

Along the way you will experience:

  • Historic lock systems
  • Beautiful lakes and river passages
  • Hydropower plants and old truss bridges
  • Fruit valleys with cider and wine production
  • Rare bird and wildlife
  • The World Heritage areas around Notodden and Rjukan

All group tours are conducted with exclusive use of the vessel unless otherwise agreed.

M/S TELEMARKEN

Previous name: Frøya
Year built: 1951 – Sweden
Shipyard: Vestervik Nya Varv
Home port: Skien
Registration: NOR

Technical data

  • Length: 26.4 meters
  • Beam: 5.62 meters
  • Draft: 1.60 meters
  • Material: Steel / aluminum
  • Engines: 2 x Volvo TAMD 100 – total 460 HP
  • Cruising speed: 9 knots
  • Max speed: 11 knots

Our canal experiences 2026/2027

TELEMARK CANAL UP – MORNING

Akkerhaugen → Lunde

Price: NOK 590
Departure: 09:40 Akkerhaugen pier
Arrival: 13:45 Lunde lock

We begin the journey across beautiful Lake Norsjø – the lake that played a central role in the establishment of Norsk Hydro and Norway’s industrial adventure. In spring and early summer, the fruit trees along the hills are in bloom, surrounded by producers of cider, beer, and wine of world-class quality.

The tour includes:

  • 3 locks
  • 10 lock chambers
  • Navigation through Nomevann
  • Beautiful nature and rich wildlife

Upon arrival in Lunde, there is an option for bus connections to further experiences in Telemark.


 

TELEMARK CANAL DOWN – AFTERNOON

Lunde → Akkerhaugen

Price: NOK 590
Departure: 13:45 Lunde lock
Arrival: 16:50 Akkerhaugen pier

Experience the spectacular approach to Vrangfoss lock – opened by King Oscar II – surrounded by historic power stations, bridges, and dramatic nature.


 

LOCK EXPERIENCE UP

Ulefoss → Lunde

Price: NOK 590
Departure: 11:00 Ulefoss lock
Arrival: 13:10 Lunde lock

Perfect for travelers who want to experience the impressive lock system of the Telemark Canal up close.


 

LOCK EXPERIENCE DOWN

Lunde → Ulefoss

Price: NOK 590
Departure: 13:45 Lunde lock
Arrival: 15:45 Ulefoss lock

A beautiful afternoon journey through the most spectacular sections of the Telemark Canal.


 

“HOP ON” TELEMARK CANAL – 90 MIN

Skien

Price: NOK 390
Departures: 11:00 / 13:00 / 15:00
Departure point: Hjelle Pier, Skien

A perfect introduction to the Telemark Canal.


 

RIVER SAFARI TELEMARK CANAL – 90 MIN

Akkerhaugen

Price: NOK 390
Departures: 11:00 / 13:00 / 15:00
Departure point: Akkerhaugen pier

Experience the historic Saua River with its beautiful cultural landscape.


 

RIVER SAFARI TELEMARK CANAL – 3 HOURS

Notodden

Price: NOK 490
Departures: 11:00 / 15:00
Departure point: Municipal pier, Notodden

We sail across Lake Heddalsvannet to Norsjø before continuing up the historic Saua River.

Included on all tours

  • Historical guided narration on screen
  • PA system onboard
  • Comfortable cruising in historic surroundings

 

Practical information

Season
1 May – 27 September 2026
Daily departures (Monday–Sunday)

Capacity
Groups from 25–96 people

Booking period
Today – 1 August

Travel period
1 May – 27 September 2026

All prices include VAT

Would you like to know more?

Fill out the form and we will get in touch!

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