SKREI – Fish, Folk And Our Future Ocean

In Storvågan, Kabelvåg, in the heart of Lofoten, a spectacular new museum is under construction. The 5,000 m2 newbuild The Otolith will house an innovative main exhibition, events and changing exhibitions, restaurant/café and a museum shop.

In addition to The Otolith, SKREI also includes the Lofoten Aquarium, Lofoten Museum and Espolin Gallery. Together, they provide a deep understanding of the uniqueness of Lofoten through experiences and activities for the whole family.

- The Otolith -
Every year, the Northeast Arctic cod, also known as skrei, migrates from the Barents Sea to the Norwegian coast to spawn. This magnificent natural cycle has created the basis for the Lofoten fishery – one of the world's largest seasonal fisheries, which has been a pillar of Norwegian culture, economy and society for more than a thousand years.

Get to know the core story of Lofoten through an innovative main exhibition that brings the history to life with sound, projections and atmosphere. Dive into the world of the skrei, discover long historical lines, meet the people who went out fishing and those who stayed home. Get an insight into how the Lofoten fishery operates today, and how we can continue to live from the bounty of the sea well into the future.

The Otolith was designed by LPO architects. The building is inspired by the fish's ear stone, which records its growth and migration patterns like the annual rings of a tree.

- Lofoten Aquarium -
Come face to face with fish and fascinating sea creatures from the waters surrounding Lofoten. Get to know what moves beneath the surface and hides in the deep – from sea cucumbers to mandolin crabs and of course, skrei. Explore a colorful exhibition about cold-water corals. The big highlight of the day is the feeding of the otters and seals. Café with a sea view. Family friendly!

- Espolin Gallery -
The Lofoten landscape has inspired many artists, but few are held in such high regard as Kaare Espolin Johnson (1907–1994). With his characteristic technique he portrayed the life of the coastal people and illustrated many books, including “The Last Viking”. See an impressive art collection and watch a beautiful film in which Espolin talks about his own work. Guest exhibitions, art workshops and a museum shop with local handicrafts.

- Lofoten Museum -
Experience the history of the Lofoten fisheries at one of the best-preserved Manor Houses in the region. Visit the stately main house from 1815. Experience the contrast between the simple lives of the fishermen in the authentic fishermen's cabins and get to know life on the farm during its heyday around 1850. Explore an impressive collection of traditional wooden boats, built using a technique listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The Lofoten Museum is idyllically located by the waterfront and has a beautiful garden with historic perennials as well as a gift shop with locally produced goods.

SKREI is located outside Kabelvåg, a 12-minute drive from Svolvær. Open year round. Experiences and activities for the whole family. Ask about our combination tickets!