Gamle Oksøy ready for Kaperuka

In two sessions on 11 July, Gamle Oksøy will open its doors to curious souls.

The vessel, originally designed to deliver fuel to the country's pier stations, still carries the legacy of its active service for the Coast Guard. With the characteristic Bergen Diesel engine still pounding life in the old hull, Gamle Oksøy is a living reminder of the necessities of the Norwegian coast and the challenges of the waters.

- WE ARE PROUD to be able to welcome Gamle Oksøy to this year's Kaperuka, says project manager Kjell Rune Nakkestad, and adds:

- This visit is not only a celebration of our maritime heritage, but also a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing our stories from the sea.

For visitors who take the trip on board, there will be an opportunity to meet the crew on board and hear stories about Gamle Oksøy's sailings along the coast of Norway.

- SO IF YOU ARE a history enthusiast, a follower of the sailor's life or just curious about the history behind Norway's coast guard, Gamle Oksøy's visit under Kaperuka is an event you don't want to miss, says Nakkestad.

Gamle Oksøy" was built in 1962 in Haugesund for the Lighthouse Directorate (which is now the Coastal Administration). The vessel was built with a large tank capacity to be able to deliver kerosene and gas to the country's many pier stations.

There is also a workshop on board to be able to repair and maintain stakes, buoys and other sea marks. The vessel has 11 crew cabins, galley and mess, and the original 8-cylinder main engine is still in good condition.

OLD OKSOY was in active service for the Coast Guard until 1996, and has since been cared for exactly as it was when it was taken out of service.

Today, Gamle Oksøy is owned and operated by the Lindesnes lighthouse museum and the Coastal Museum, and the vessel is used for various museum cruises at home and abroad. A separate association of friends ensures maintenance and staffing.