Surrounded by the North Sea, at the end of the breakwater in Åkrehamn, Mortholmen Herring Salting Plant has played an important role in Norwegian fishing history. In its heyday, the building was bustling with life. Now Captain Sig Hansen himself, better known from the TV-show Deadliest Catch, has restored the building.
Mortholmen as it appears today provides a unique insight into the rich fishing legacy that has shaped the local community surrounding Åkrehamn as well as Norway as a country.
Mortholmen Herring Saltery, located in Åkrehamn, Karmøy, carries a rich history that reflects Norway’s proud maritime heritage. Once a bustling hub during the great herring boom of the early 1900s, Mortholmen played a key role in the fishing industry with its large salting capacity. Herring caught along the coast was salted and exported across Europe, bringing prosperity to the local community.
Founded by Knut and Kaia Jakobsen after World War I, the saltery became a symbol of innovation and hard work. Women, known as the “Sildakånene” (Herring Women), managed the salting process, while the men braved the dangers of the North Sea. The facility saw both highs and lows in the fishing industry—flourishing during times of high demand but struggling when herring disappeared.
The facility saw both highs and lows in the fishing industry—flourishing during times of high demand but struggling when herring disappeared.
Today, Mortholmen stands as a preserved monument, hosting events and honouring its legacy. The original herring tanks and rustic charm offer visitors a authentic connection to the past, reminding them of Karmøy’s resilient fishing community. As the last remaining herring saltery in Norway, Mortholmen stands as a symbol of perseverance and history.
Mortholmen Herring Saltery has risen from the ashes. After an extensive restoration, the building is now open for visitors. We welcome larger groups by appointment. A visit to Mortholmen is a journey back in time—offering an authentic experience at Norway’s only preserved herring saltery. History comes to life through an interactive multimedia experience, with none other than Captain Sig Hansen at the helm.
Before the guided tour, guests are treated to a delicious lunch and drinks, with a menu carefully curated by our dedicated chefs—alongside Sig himself.
We recommend setting aside three hours for your visit.
If you have any special requests, we will do our best to accommodate them. Get in touch, and we’ll find a solution together!
