The Maritime Museum stands on Leuvehaven in central Rotterdam, beside the old harbour where historic ships are moored. Its galleries trace the city's seafaring past, from wooden sailing ships to modern offshore work, with ship models, navigation instruments, figureheads, paintings and navy uniforms. Children have a hands-on floor of their own, and outside you can explore historic ships and cranes. Leave time for both the indoor galleries and the harbour.
From 1874 to today
The museum was founded in 1874 by Prince Henry of the Netherlands. The basis of its collection was laid in 1852 by Prince Hendrik, and the collection now covers six centuries of maritime history.
The displays run from the prehistoric tree-trunk canoe to the high-tech offshore industry of today. Rotterdam's role as a global port is the thread through the museum, showing how shipping has shaped the city's identity and daily life.
Inside the galleries
Alongside the ship models and paintings, the galleries show navigation instruments, figureheads from various ships, navy uniforms and sea battle flags. A large painting of the Battle of Trafalgar is among the most striking displays.
The permanent collections cover how ships were built, legends of sea monsters and other sea creatures, and the illegal drug trade carried out by sea. Some rooms recreate how the interiors of boats looked in earlier times, including dormitories.
On the ground floor, Mainport Live is a model of the port with a light and sound presentation that conveys the life of Rotterdam's harbour. The Mataró model, the oldest model ship in Europe, is also on display.
The harbour outside
The Maritime Museum Harbour lies alongside Leuvehaven, one of the original sites of the port of Rotterdam. Historic ships and cranes are moored there, and many of the ships can be boarded and explored. The harbour includes a 19th-century ironclad ram, HNLMS Buffel, which belongs to the museum.
The open-air harbour can be seen without buying an indoor ticket, which suits visitors who are unsure about paying admission. From the harbour you can walk toward the Cube Houses, Markthal and the Erasmus Bridge.
Visiting with children
The top floor has a large interactive area for children, where they can learn about shipping and try crane operation and rigging. An outdoor play space lets them load containers onto ships.
Professor Plons's harbour is a playful discovery tour through ships, cranes, the harbour and maritime transport. During school breaks the museum runs master classes for children, and at Christmas it adds extra activities, such as taking apart old devices to make decorations.
Getting there and parking
The museum is in central Rotterdam and is easy to reach by public transport. Take the metro to Beurs station, and the museum is a short walk away.
The museum itself has no parking. Garages close by include the Erasmus Bridge garage, Markthal and Museumpark.
Access and facilities
The entrance, restroom and seating are wheelchair accessible, and so is the parking lot. A hearing loop, assisted listening devices and Auracast broadcast audio are available.
There is a gender-neutral restroom and a changing table. A cafe and a restaurant are on site, and the gift shop sells souvenirs.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Adult tickets have been listed at €17.50 and tickets for children aged 4 to 12 at €10. Check the museum website for current prices before you go.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes. The museum recommends getting tickets in advance, and you can book an admission ticket online.
Is there parking at the museum?
The museum has no parking of its own. Garages near it include Erasmus Bridge, Markthal and Museumpark.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The top floor has hands-on exhibits designed for children, and there is an outdoor play space.
How do I get there by public transport?
Take the metro to Beurs station. The museum is a short walk from the station.
