Harbour museum

Harbour Museum Rotterdam holds a collection of objects spanning six centuries of seafaring history. The exhibition displays vessels, navigation instruments, charts, and personal items from sailors that show how people used and explored the sea.

The museum was founded in 1874 to preserve Dutch seafaring heritage. Since then it has gathered important maritime artifacts that document the development of shipping and trade in the region.

The museum exhibits the Mataró model, the oldest ship model in Europe, alongside East India Company charts and pen-and-ink drawings by Willem van de Velde.

The exhibition spaces are accessible and easy to navigate throughout. Guided tours and workshops are offered regularly to help different age groups learn more about the collection.

An unusual feature here is the interactive exhibit where visitors can simulate working on an oil platform at sea. This experience gives a realistic look at the modern challenges of the maritime industry.

GPS coordinates: 51.91564,4.48249

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:22