Historical vessels and maritime trades

The Maritime Museum has the oldest and largest Dutch collection and is situated on the site where the port of Rotterdam once began.

Historical and exceptional ‘guest’ vessels are berthed here. In the various workshops, you can discover the secrets of old maritime (ship) building trades.

In the adjacent museum port, you can find the finest historical vessels and port equipment. A visit to the lighthouse is a good way to start your tour of the museum port. Here, you will learn how the port of Rotterdam grew to become the largest in Europe.

In the workshops at the Leuve Pavilion, maritime trades are given the tribute they deserve. Sparks literally fly during the blacksmith’s demonstration. You can see how the museum fleet is kept in top condition. Discover what it takes to build a ship. Meanwhile, welders and carpenters are at work at their workbenches.

Heart of a vibrant Maritime

District The Maritime Museum is the historical heart of the city centre, where the port has its origin. Today, high-rise and maritime history stand side by side. Here you can find unique sailing heritage and activities on and near the waterfront. Together with entrepreneurs, artists, educational institutions, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the municipality, the museum wants to further develop the Maritime District for visitors and Rotterdam residents. A place to live and relax, the aim being to make the Maritime Museum Port even more active, a place where vessels come and go, where maritime events take place for everyone and where one continues to promote a unique dynamic heritage.