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Curaçao Maritime History Museum: A Voyage Through Time

Discover 500 years of Curaçao's maritime history. Explore nautical charts, ship models, and the island's connection to the sea in Willemstad.

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Explore over 500 years of Curaçao's maritime history at this museum in Willemstad. Discover nautical charts, ship models, and navigation equipment in a beautifully restored historic building.

A brief summary to Curacao Maritime History Museum / A treasure chest full of history

Local tips

  • Combine your museum visit with a harbor tour on an original ferry for a unique perspective of Willemstad.
  • Check the museum's opening hours, as they may vary, especially on days when cruise ships are in port.
  • Take a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits and Curaçao's maritime history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge in Punda, walk east along the Handelskade, admiring the colorful buildings. Turn left onto N. van Den Brandhofstraat. The Curaçao Maritime History Museum will be on your left, a short distance from the waterfront. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Curaçao Hato International Airport (CUR), take bus 4B to Otrobanda or bus 2A/2C to Punda. From either bus station, you can walk to the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge and then to the museum. A single bus ticket costs 1.70 ANG. Exact change is required.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Willemstad. A taxi from the airport to Willemstad will cost approximately $30-$40 USD. From other locations in Willemstad, a short taxi ride to the museum should cost approximately $15-$25 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Curacao Maritime History Museum / A treasure chest full of history

The Curaçao Maritime History Museum offers a captivating journey through more than 500 years of the island's rich maritime and national history. Housed in a beautifully restored monumental building dating back to 1729, located in the heart of the Scharloo neighborhood of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum seamlessly blends age-old maritime traditions with modern design, creating an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Spread across three floors, the museum's exhibits showcase the pivotal role the sea has played in shaping Curaçao's identity and development. From its strategic location and natural deep-water harbor, Curaçao emerged as a major seafaring and commercial center early in its history, a legacy that continues to influence the island’s community today. The museum's main exhibition presents a comprehensive overview of Curaçao's maritime past. Authentic nautical charts, meticulously crafted ship models, and historical navigation equipment are combined with audiovisual presentations to bring the island's seafaring stories to life. Visitors will discover the routes of the first settlers, the arrival of Christopher Columbus, and Curaçao's subsequent control by the Spanish and the Dutch. The second floor delves into the development of the harbor, including the iconic Queen Emma Bridge, also known as the floating bridge, opened in 1888. Exhibits also explore the impact of piracy and privateering in the region, as well as the somber history of the African slave trade. A highlight of the museum is the remarkable model of the Curaçao oil refinery, crafted by a former Shell employee. On the top floor, visitors can explore the modern exhibition dedicated to the Dutch Navy and its role in the region. Beyond the exhibits, the Curaçao Maritime Museum offers a range of engaging activities. Enhance the visitor experience, with guided tours led by knowledgeable experts who provide deeper insights into the exhibits and the island's maritime history. The museum organizes harbor tours aboard an original ferry, allowing visitors to experience Willemstad's bustling harbor.

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