Flemsøya/Skuløya

The island of Flemsøya/Skuløya has that small-town feeling, but is huge when it comes to maritime industry and innovation. Here, you can be a part of international industry, while enjoying the wild west coast nature and a safe, tight-knit community.

The ocean is for sure a part of everyday life on Flemsøya/Skuløya (yes, the island goes by both names interchangeably). Here, the sea means work, leisure, food on the table. It is wild waves, and mirror-like fjords. It’s where the sun sets slowly into the horizon, painting the sky with breathtaking colors.

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For those who love salty air, fishing, boating, and a thriving maritime industry, Skuløya/Flemsøya is sure to leave a lasting impression.

-You could safely say this is a place where kids actually eat fish, Odd Einar Molnes says with a laugh. A father of three, he lives on the island with his wife and children.

-Many teenagers and adults here have their own boats. There’s plenty of fish and lobster to catch – and there are so many sandy beaches here, the teacher adds.

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Covering just over 14 square kilometers, the island is part of Haram municipality on the coast of Møre og Romsdal. It is part of the Nordøyane region outside Harøyfjorden in Sunnmøre. Nordøyane is a string of small and large islands; most of them are connected by bridges or tunnels, while others can only be reached by boat.

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Flemsøya/Skuløya plays a vital role in this coastal island community. Its closest neighbor, Haramsøya, is just a bridge away, and with one more tunnel, you’re on the mainland.

With a population of around 500, there’s plenty of space to breathe. The island offers flat stretches along its eastern and southern coasts, as well as forests, open fields, and the majestic Skulen mountain. It rises nearly 500 meters above sea level, and the the view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. From here, you’ll get a panoramic look at the island’s five hamlets: Longva, Flem, Rogna, Nogva, and Støene. The local kindergarten is situated in Longva, and so is the local grocery store. This is where most of the islanders live.

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The neighboring islands -Haramsøya, Harøya/Finnøya, Lepsøya, and Fjørtofta- share close ties, working together in both big and small ways. The climate here is typical for the Norwegian west coast, shifting between sun, rain, and wind. Can’t deny it.

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Flemsøya/Skuløya has a strong industrial presence, shaping the future of maritime. One of the key players here is Kongsberg Maritime Longva, a branch of the renowned Norwegian technology company Kongsberg Group. They provide advanced systems and solutions for maritime industries worldwide, with the Longva division specializing in automation systems for maritime applications.

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In short, there are plenty of exciting job opportunities in this area!

Additionally, some also work in fishing and seafood processing, including traditional clipfish (dried and salted cod) production.

Many people commute daily to and from the islands, either to neighboring islands or the mainland.

-There are a big number of jobs within 25 minutes of driving, Odd Einar says.

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Growing up by the open sea seems to keep people in great shape! Nature plays a big role for many of the residents. There are endless possibilities for outdoor adventures on the island. Take a hike at one of the many marked trails through forests and mountains, and find one of the beautiful, sandy, white beaches - perfect for both relaxing and exploring. Wander along the shoreline to discover hidden treasures, or bring your fishing rod and catch a fresh, local dinner. Straight from the sea!

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The ocean invites you to enjoy boat fishing, crab catching, sailing, kayaking, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), among other activities. Many locals are passionate about boating, and in the village of Longva, they have built several charming boathouses by the marina. Here, boat enthusiasts gather, sharing stories and good company on the docks.

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The city of Ålesund (Norway's tenth-largest city) is just over an hour's drive from Skuløya/Flemsøya, offering a wide range of shopping and cultural experiences not far away.

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For those who want to travel by air, Ålesund Airport Vigra is less than a 90-minute drive away.

In other words, residents of Skuløya/Flemsøya can enjoy the peaceful life on their island. But for those with a taste for international business or long-distance travel, this island in the open sea can be the perfect place to call home.

Sources:

Skuløya – Store norske leksikon

Flemsøya – Wikipedia

Fakta om øya – Flemsøy/Skuløy

Longva AiR - Utstillinger - Kunzt.no

Longva - Wikipedia

Nordøyane

Haramsøy barnehage - Haram kommune

Ona & Nordøyane - Fjord Norway

Northern Islands Technology

Kongsberg Maritime CM - Longva - Kongsberg Maritime

Nordøy Idrettslag (@nordoyidrettslag) • Instagram