Marstal Søfartsmuseum: Guardians of a Storied Seafaring Legacy
A captivating maritime museum in Marstal, Ærø, showcasing Denmark's seafaring legacy with ship models, nautical artifacts, sailor tales, and hands-on exhibits.
Marstal Søfartsmuseum, perched in the heart of Marstal on Ærø, immerses visitors in Denmark’s maritime heritage through authentic ship models, nautical artifacts, and captivating sailor tales. Housed in atmospheric former merchant buildings near the harbor, the museum beautifully chronicles Marstal’s evolution from bustling shipbuilding center to vibrant coastal community, making it a vital stop for history lovers and seafaring enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Øhavsmuseet
- Havnegade 3, Faaborg, 5600, DK
- +4563612000
- Visit website
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan for at least 1–2 hours to fully explore the museum's many themed rooms and hands-on exhibits.
- Check the museum calendar for special temporary exhibits and lectures, often held during the summer season.
- Families with children should not miss the replica sailor’s cabin, a hit with younger visitors.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Marstal harbor to spot working ships and classic Danish cutters.
- Admission is reduced for students, seniors, and children; guided tours in English are available upon request.
Getting There
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Ferry plus Walking
Arriving at Ærø by ferry, visitors typically disembark in the main harbor of Marstal, with the town’s maritime district unfolding just beyond the waterfront. From the ferry terminal, it’s a brief and pleasant walk—often less than 10 minutes—through the historic heart of Marstal, where colorful fishermen’s cottages and local shops line the way. The museum’s traditional brick buildings sit close to the harbor, making them easy to spot as you head toward the cluster of masts. Ferries to Ærø from Fynshav, Svendborg, or Faaborg vary between 90–135 DKK one-way per adult, with regular departures all year.
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Public Transport
Regional buses connect from Ærøskøbing (the island’s 'capital') and other villages directly to Marstal’s central square, a few minutes’ stroll from the museum. The bus journey offers relaxing island views and typically takes 30–40 minutes, with a one-way ticket costing around 25–35 DKK per adult. Schedules are designed to coordinate with ferry arrivals; limited services may apply in late evenings or off-season.
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Car
If exploring Ærø by car, ample parking can be found near Marstal harbor. Museum visitors usually find available spaces within a short walk, especially outside of peak holiday periods. Parking is generally free of charge, though it can be busier during summer festivals. The museum is signposted from main routes into town.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from ferry ports or Ærøskøbing and provide a convenient option for those traveling with luggage or arriving late. Expect a journey of 25–35 minutes from other island towns, typically costing 200–300 DKK depending on starting point.
Discover more about Øhavsmuseet
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