ABOUT US

SINCE THE 1930’S

Pieces of OF OUR STORY

INTRODUCTION

There has been a settlement at Saraelv since the 1930s, when Severin and Pauline Hansen moved here with their 8 children and livestock. They made it into a farm from scratch, cutting down trees and working the land. They survived on what the land could provide, fish from the river, meat from the surrounding wildlife, and berries from the woods. Post World War II, people also started coming here to fish salmon and to experience the wilderness with its steep mountains and gorgeous waterfalls. At the end of the Reisa valley, there is a canyon with a very special Imofossen (Imo waterfall). It is from this that the Reisa Valley got the name “mini Grand Canyon”. This was the start of Saraelv as a tourist location. We are the “oldest” riverboat trip provider in the area, driving people to the waterfalls since 1946.

We are the 3rd generation that operates on the Saraelv. 1st generation was Severin Hansen b. 1887-1966 married to Pauline Hansen b. 1889-1953. 2nd generation was Håkon Leonhard Hansen b. 1926-2005 married to Margit Sofie Hansen b. 1927-2015.

meet

Our team

Rolf Hansen

Owner and CEO

3rd generation at Saraelv. He has been involved with the riverboat tourism since he was 12 years old.

Jon Erik Hansen

OWNER/bOAT OPERATOR

3rd generation at Saraelv. Knows the river like his own backpocket. Has over 40 years of experience as a riverboat operator.

JIM-ROGER HANSEN

OWNER/bOAT OPERATOR

4th generation at Saraelv. Very capable riverboat operator and guide, service minded and positive. With Jim-Roger you are in very good hands.

saraelv in

historical photos