Skibladner

Skibladner was launched in 1856, rebuilt and lengthened in 1888, and has been running on Lake Mjosa ever since, which makes it the oldest paddle steamer still in regular service anywhere. It is 165 feet long, white with a black funnel, driven by side paddle wheels and a steam engine that visitors can watch working, and it carries passengers on a fixed summer timetable between Eidsvoll, Hamar, Gjovik and Lillehammer, with different routes on different weekdays. The traditional lunch on board is poached salmon and strawberries with cream. It is protected as a historic vessel and crewed partly by volunteers, and the season is short, running roughly from late June to mid-August.

What you actually see

• The paddle wheels - side wheels driven by the original-pattern steam engine.
• The engine room - machinery visible and working during the sailing.
• The lake route - crossings between Eidsvoll, Hamar, Gjovik and Lillehammer.
• The salmon lunch - the traditional meal served on board.

When to go

Late June to mid-August, the entire season; the timetable varies by day of the week and each route runs only on set days, so planning around it is necessary. Sailings sell out, particularly with dining.

Honest expectations

The season is only about seven weeks and each route runs on specific days, which makes casual travel difficult. Legs take several hours and return transport must be arranged. Dining is expensive and books out well ahead.

Nearby

Hamar's cathedral ruins and Lillehammer's Maihaugen are at the quays; Eidsvoll is at the southern end.