The Telemark Canal

Welcome to the Telemark Canal, the Most Beautiful Canal in the World!

The Telemark Canal stretches from Skien to Dalen, showcasing a diverse and stunning landscape.

Enjoy a fantastic boat trip along the canal, where you gently glide through the marvelous scenery. Century-old technology ensures a safe and dry passage through the locks.

Day Trips on the Canal or Overnight Boat Trips

You have a variety of options for exploring the Telemark Canal, from day trips to overnight boat journeys.

M/S Telemarken: This boat operates the Norsjø-Ulefoss-Lunde route round trip and is ideal for those starting from Norsjø, Lunde, or Ulefoss. M/S Telemarken sails from Akkerhaugen to Lunde, with the option of taking a bus back to Akkerhaugen. More details about M/S Telemarken are provided below.

MS Victoria and MS Henrik Ibsen: These canal boats travel the full length of the canal between Skien and Dalen, offering a unique overnight experience.

Attractions Along the Telemark Canal

Along the canal, you'll find 8 locks and various attractions including:

Ways to Experience the Canal

Canal boats
Leisure boats
Cycling
Kayaking/canoeing
Hiking and sightseeing
Relaxing at outdoor seating areas

Paddling and cycling maps of the Telemark Canal are available for purchase from Visit Bø.

Bus and Train Routes Along the Canal

You can easily combine canal boat trips with bus journeys along many stretches of the Telemark Canal. Buses and trains provide access to various locations along the canal, with connections to ferry harbors in Sandefjord, Larvik, and Langesund, as well as airports in Sandefjord, Skien, and Notodden. For more details on the travel to the Telemark Canal, please refer to to their travel information page.

Car Parking

Parking is available at all ports of call along the Telemark Canal, and it is free of charge in designated areas. At Hjellebrygga in Skien, make sure to obtain a parking permit—check the notice on the quay for details.

Timetables and Booking

The new season begins on May 18, 2024. The Telemark Canal has launched a new website for booking, where you can reserve almost all packages, including day trips and overnight trips. We encourage you to book your tours on the Telemark Canal's website.

Note: The canal is not operational during winter. Pre-booking is highly recommended.

For all enquiries, please contact the Telemark Canal:
Online Booking: booktelemark.no/en/
Telephone: +47 409 20 000
Email: booking@telemarkskanalen.no

Timetables and Prices the Telemark Canal

M/S Telemarken

M/S Telemarken sails between Akkerhaugen and Lunde, traversing the finest stretch of the entire canal, which features the most lock facilities, including the largest at Vrangfoss. From the top deck, you can enjoy the stunning view of Fruktbygda Gvarv from the water. On board, there's always a wide selection of products from local producers.

M/S Telemarken can be hired by groups, companies, and individuals. Guests can enjoy free parking at Norsjø Hotel, First Camp Norsjø, or right by the boat.

Departure Akkerhaugen
09:45 Akkerhaugen brygge
11:00 Ulefoss sluse
13:10 Arrival Lunde sluse

Departure Lunde
13:45 Lunde sluse
15:40 Ulefoss sluse
16:50 Arrival Akkerhaugen brygge

Online Booking: mstelemarken.no
Telefon: +47 974 92 092
Email: post@mstelemarken.no

Order Your Boat Trip with M/S Telemarken

Bicycle/Canoe
You can bring a bicycle, bike trailer, canoe, or kayak on board the boats for an additional fee of NOK 200 per item. These must be pre-booked along with your ticket. Please note the following:

Limited Capacity: Items must not exceed 25kg.
Preparation: Luggage must be removed, and bikes must fit in the racks.
Electric Bikes: Charging electric bikes on board is not allowed for safety reasons.

Important: Buses do not have space for bicycles, canoes, or similar items.

Dogs:
You can bring your dog on the canal boats for a fee of NOK 300 per dog, payable on board. Small dogs in bags are allowed for free on M/S Telemarken.

Important: Dogs are not permitted on the bus due to allergy considerations.