Situated on the western coast of the island of Vestvigry, Stamsund is a well-known fishing village, and the population of approximately 1500 makes it one of the largest villages in the municipality of vestvigry. Stamsund has a long tradition of commercial fishing, and today houses Norways largest deep sea trawling company and a top modern fish factory. During the last few years Stamsund has also established itself as a cultural center, with its own puppet theatre - Figurteateret i Nordland - along with several galleries. Scott Thoe and Vebjrrg Hagene Thoe's "Galleri 2" art gallery opened in june 1998. The gallery is located about 150 m from the Coastal Express docks in Stamsund. Although this perhaps is the most well known, other galleries are also to be found in the surrounding area. Other important contributions to Stamsund as a cultural center include both local book publisher Orkana and professional blacksmith Oona. Her workshop is located at Skjcrbrygga Surrounded by nature Stamsund makes a wonderful starting point for walks in the mountains, and with its location on the western coast of the island the view across to the mainland is magnificent. The Lofoten sea can be experienced by renting a boat, with or without a motor. The public transport system is well developed, and it is possible to arrive at stamsund by boat as well as by bus. The coastal steamer - which is said to be the world's most beautiful voyage - arrives in the village daily, and there are good bus connections to Leknes, the administrative center of the municipality. At Leknes you also find the local airport - Leknes Lufthavn.