The village of Klokkarstua (in Asker Municipality) lies about 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) to the east, across the fjord.
Under the formannskapsdistrikt law, Svelvik was granted self-governing status as a municipality since it was a town.
The name "sword bay" is likely referring to the Ryggen promontory ridge across from the town of Svelvik.
The narrow Svelvikstrømmen strait is located part-way along the fjord, near the town of Svelvik.
The shortest ferry line in Norway crosses the fjord there, connecting Svelvik to the Hurum peninsula.