Harøya/Finnøya

Interesting job opportunities surrounded by stunning west coast nature, you say? Well, take a look at Harøya and Finnøya – and daydream about the next big fish you’ll catch there. There is no lack of opportunities here, and they come in many forms.

Situated at the edge of Ålesund municipality, the two neighboring islands have become much more accessible with the opening of Nordøyvegen – an impressive project of bridges and tunnels connecting these islands to the mainland and creating a broader regional community. Nordøyvegen represents a new era for the islanders while preserving each island’s unique charm as vibrant, independent communities. Nordøyvegen ensures good communication southeast between the islands towards Ålesund, while the ferry from Finnøy connects the islands with Orta, Ona, Sandøy, and Gossen, providing a connection northward towards Molde.

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The people of Harøya and Finnøya have always looked both forward and outward. The ocean has been a central part of their identity since the days of the traditional fishing-farming communities, and today’s industries still reflect this deep connection.

Several major companies on the islands specialize in maritime technology and services, and this relationship with the sea is ingrained in the community. The approximately one thousand residents here are open and outward-looking, characterized by both local knowledge and inspiration from the wider world. It may be this openness to the world that has led to people from over 20 different nationalities living on these islands today.

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Harøya and Finnøya offer diverse opportunities for active leisure, culture, and recreation. Harøy Sports Club is central to sports activities, providing access to a modern indoor football hall, which also includes a well-equipped climbing wall suitable for both beginners and seasoned climbers. Adjacent to this is Harøy Stadium, featuring an artificial turf football field with athletics facilities and an outdoor gym area – ideal for organized and individual training.

In addition to these facilities, Harøya also features a disc golf course, a fantastic, low-threshold outdoor activity for all ages. For young people interested in exploring life at sea, MAX Activity Center provides an engaging maritime program for kayaking and other activities connected to coastal resources – a great way to learn about the ocean and our connection to it.

Traditional archery is also an activity that engages many people on the islands, and members have earned medals in both national and world championships.

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In terms of culture, the islands have a vibrant music scene. Many musicians have their roots in the local culture school, and the islands’ choirs and bands provide musical experiences and foster a strong sense of community. Several bands and professional musicians have emerged from these small yet vibrant communities.

The village also has an active church community, with the Sandøy Parish Council, Harøy Church, and Sandøy Church.

Nordøyvegen has for sure opened new opportunities for collaboration among the islands, especially in sports and cultural activities, further strengthening the sense of regional unity.

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Those who develop jobs and build industries on these islands always keep their eyes forward, seeking opportunities. One must be impressed by the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in these small communities, where the whole world is the market.

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Harøya and Finnøya offer a range of exciting job opportunities within the maritime sector, construction, and tourism. To name a few:

-Finnøy Bryggehotell on Finnøya offers accommodation, a restaurant, and a wellness center, and is the largest tourism initiative in the area.

-Finnøy Gear & Propeller is a leading developer of ship propulsion systems known for their high quality.

-Rostein AS, located in Steinshamn, is a significant player in the wellboat industry, focusing on the transport of live fish.

-IP Huse is clearly the largest cornerstone company on the island and is a world leader in the production of winches for offshore vessels.

-Myklebust Trevare AS and Norgeshus GF Bygg & Eiendom AS provide construction services, while Erling Myklebust Mechanical Workshop supplies components to the offshore industry.

For those considering moving here, there are also several other job opportunities in agriculture, local service provision, and tourism. The islands of Harøya and Finnøya have successfully combined traditional maritime industry with modern entrepreneurship, offering a diverse labor market in beautiful natural surroundings.

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Let’s end with an excerpt from the traditional Harøya Song, “Our Island”. It was composed by Ole E. Huse with lyrics by Elias E. Marøy. Translated into English by Berit Anita Larsson. The words largely apply to Finnøya as well, and you get a sense of the island spirit just by reading it.

Look to the sunset

there rise our islets

circled by skerries

and battered by swell.

Peatland and mire,

yet they inspire

love in the people

who know them so well.

Hailstorms and showers

spring breeze and flowers

each make their mark

as the seasons go by.

Hard toil and patience

through generations

brought forth the pastures

where grasses grow high.

Westward the ocean

always in motion

washes its siren song

over the shore.

Rising and falling

sighing and calling

murmuring tales

of adventures of yore.

Haven in hard times

heaven in good times

new dawns await

every girl, every boy.

Grasp your tomorrows

pleasures and sorrows

this is our homeland

through hardship and joy.