Background

Maritime Museum of Douala: Charting Cameroon's Seafaring History

Explore Cameroon's maritime past at the Douala Maritime Museum, an architectural gem showcasing the nation's seafaring history and coastal culture.

4

The Maritime Museum of Douala, inaugurated in 2013, showcases Cameroon's rich maritime heritage through exhibits on fishing, shipping, and trade. Housed in a striking building resembling a ship's stern, the museum offers insights into Douala's coastal past and its evolution into a major economic hub.

A brief summary to Maritime Museum Of Douala

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a more personalized experience and to avoid crowds.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special events and temporary exhibitions.
  • Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the Bonanjo area to enjoy local dining.
  • If you don't speak French, inquire about an English-speaking guide to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Maritime Museum is located on Rue de l'Hôpital in the Bonanjo district. From many points in Bonanjo, such as the Centre des Affaires Maritimes, the museum is easily accessible on foot. Look for the distinctive ship-like architecture.

  • Public Transport

    While Douala doesn't have a formal public transit system, buses run by private companies operate throughout the city. Check local bus routes for options that pass through Bonanjo. From the bus stop, follow signs or ask for directions to Rue de l'Hôpital.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Douala. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within Bonanjo should cost around 1500 XAF. Ask the driver to take you to the Musée Maritime on Rue de l'Hôpital, opposite the Division Informatique des Douanes.

Unlock the Best of Maritime Museum Of Douala

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Maritime Museum Of Douala

The Maritime Museum of Douala, located in the Bonanjo district, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the maritime heritage of Cameroon. Opened in 2013, the museum's architecture itself is a draw, designed to resemble the stern of a ship. The museum's collection includes sculptures, photographs, maps, and paintings that illustrate the relationship between man and the sea, the evolution of ships, and the history of trade in Cameroonian ports. Exhibits also delve into the colonial era and the struggles between locals and colonists. The museum features a sailing simulator offering visitors a glimpse into maritime navigation techniques. The museum's origins trace back to 1986 when the National Council of Loaders of Cameroon (CNCC) established the first Maritime Museum with the goal of showcasing the nation’s maritime history. After facing closure and deterioration, the museum was revitalized in 2011 with a new location and a renewed commitment to sharing Cameroon's maritime narrative.

Popular Experiences near Maritime Museum Of Douala

Popular Hotels near Maritime Museum Of Douala

Select Currency