The Norwegian Aquaculture Centre is beautifully situated by Toftsundet. The actual fish farm is reached by a gangway from the shore. This is the place to learn more about the fascinating life cycle of salmon, and the pioneering work that made Norwegian aquaculture such an international success.

The success story of salmon farming

Knowledgeable guides will lead you on a journey through the many chapters of modern fish farming, and the story’s environmental context. The tour makes use of mini-aquariums as well as underwater cameras. You will witness feeding, hear about the development of salmon from fertilised fish egg to sexual maturity, and see how it is cared for during the various stages of its life. Naturally you are welcome to visit at any time of the year.

Guided tour of a salmon farm

For those who want to get close to salmon farming, guided tours to the sea cages at the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre are recommended. Here, visitors can see modern aquaculture in practice – from feeding and monitoring to how the fish is followed through its entire life cycle.

On the tour, you will:

  • Walk on floating platforms and get close to live salmon
  • See the salmon both above and below the surface using underwater cameras
  • Try the feeding system and see how the salmon respond
  • Learn about the everyday work of people in the industry
  • Gain insight into environmental measures, technology and sustainability in modern aquaculture

The tour is family-friendly and suitable for both children and adults. Young children must be accompanied by an adult. The activity takes place outdoors and may be affected by weather conditions.

Indoor exhibition

Norsk Havbrukssenter-barn ved akvariumet Designalkymisten AS

The exhibition provides a thorough and visually engaging introduction to the Norwegian aquaculture industry.

Here you will find:

  • The history of modern salmon farming and why the Helgeland coast became a natural hub
  • Local history connected to coastal life and the development of the industry
  • Small aquariums with fish and species from the surrounding area – always a highlight for children
  • Underwater cameras showing salmon in real time
  • An audio guide that lets visitors explore the exhibition at their own pace

A visit can easily be combined with a meal at Restaurant Smak, located in the same building. Lunch and dinner are served here, based on local ingredients, in peaceful surroundings with views towards Toftsundet.

You can read more about the food experience at the Aquaculture Center here

Address

Toftveien 80, 8909 Brønnøysund

Check route with Entur

The Norwegian Aquaculture Center welcomes tourists and visitors all year round.

Thank you for respecting the local communities, and for helping us preserve the natural beauty of Helgeland!

Please:

  • Strive to leave no trace of your visit. Bring back all your rubbish, including used toilet paper, and discard it in the nearest rubbish bin.
  • Plan your toilet visits and use the opportunity when you pass a toilet. In the wilderness, make sure you are not a nuisance to others.
  • Respect the local wildlife. Keep a good distance from wildlife, livestock and birds. Keep your dog leashed.
  • Respect private property. Keep a respectful distance from houses and cabins.
  • Show good boating sense. Keep a good distance from shore and drive at a low speed, especially when you are close to anyone or anything on the water, including birds or animals. Avoid loud and disturbing engine noise. Be aware that some islands and nature reserves are important nesting sites, and that going ashore is prohibited during the nesting season.
  • Follow the Norwegian Mountain Code (Fjellvettreglene). Plan your excursion according to the weather forecast, your skills and experience.
  • Join a guided excursion or consider hiring an experienced guide, especially when you don’t have sufficient experience or knowledge to guarantee a safe trip.

See also

Welcome to Brønnøysund

The town, which sits on a narrow peninsula surrounded by islets, has excellent restaurants, charming cafés and a thriving coastal culture.

Read more

Explore the area