Bussard

The Bussard is a steamship and buoy tender on display at the Maritime Museum in Kiel. The vessel measures about 41 meters long and retains its original steam engine along with mechanical components from its working years.

The ship was built in 1906 and worked on the water until the late 1970s. After being decommissioned, it later received approval to operate under steam again and underwent restoration.

The vessel shows how German maritime workers outfitted their tools and how harbor operations looked in the early 1900s. Visitors can observe how crew members worked daily with the machinery and equipment.

The vessel accommodates about 50 day visitors and allows close-up experience with old maritime technology. Guests should be ready to explore narrow staircases and small compartments typical of ship operations.

The vessel sat idle for years before being brought back to life and finding a new role at the museum. This revival was a major technical undertaking that shows how historic ships can be preserved for future visitors.

Location: Kiel

Length: 40.6 m

Part of: list of Cultural heritage monuments in Kiel-Altstadt, Kiel Maritime Museum

GPS coordinates: 54.32200,10.14560

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45