Norway’s Coastal Heritage: Visit Lødingen's Steamship Wharf

After a short walk from the ship, we’ll be warmly welcomed into one of Lødingen's oldest wharfs, now lovingly restored as an exhibition venue. The wooden walls, roof, and floor are 100% original, and look the same as when the building first opened in 1901. The oldest section is from 1865. The owner has carefully preserved old items from the wharf, now showcased within the building.

We begin our tour outside the building, with a short introduction to the village, its history, and its residents. We’ll then make our way inside the Warehouse Hall, where you can admire grand historical photos of former Hurtigruten, old steamships, and local fishing boats with captions in several languages. In the room sits an old Nordlands boat, fully rigged with sails, which was inspired by the iconic Viking ships of old.

Venturing to the second-floor gallery, you can peer through a hatch in the attic floor ceiling to discover a sizable hoisting wheel, measuring 2 metres in diameter, used to take on land goods.  

As part of your visit, you'll learn more about coastal boat traffic and also be introduced to a special song, highlighting the enduring connection locals have always had with the sea.  

The Norwegian Cultural Heritage Fund has supported the restoration of the building, which is considered a cultural monument, largely because of the history that can be linked to the site. Lødingen has always been a maritime traffic hub, and shipping of the vessels was done from this very building.

Before we return to the ship, you’ll have a chance to buy locally produced souvenirs, jewellery, and clothes.