Explore the Rich Maritime Heritage at Port Natal Maritime Museum
Uncover the maritime legacy of Durban at the Port Natal Maritime Museum, where history and ocean conservation meet.
Discover the fascinating maritime history of Durban at the Port Natal Maritime Museum. This engaging museum offers a deep dive into the city's seafaring past through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts, making it a must-visit for tourists.
A brief summary to Port Natal Maritime Museum
- Samora Machel St, Durban, Durban Central, 4001, ZA
- +27313112230
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, especially if you prefer to explore without crowds.
- Check for any special exhibitions or events that may enhance your visit.
- Take advantage of the guided tours to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Plan to spend at least two hours to fully enjoy all the exhibits and activities.
- Don’t forget your camera; the historic ships and artifacts make for great photos!
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from the Durban city center, head southwest on Dr Pixley Kaseme Street toward West Street. Continue straight onto Samora Machel Street, and after about 1.5 km, you will reach the Port Natal Maritime Museum on your right. There may be parking available nearby, but be prepared to pay for parking fees, which can range from R10 to R20 per hour depending on the area.
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Public Transport - Bus
You can take the public bus service from various parts of KwaZulu-Natal to Durban. Look for buses heading to the Durban Central area. Once you arrive at the Durban Bus Station, exit and walk towards Samora Machel Street. The museum is about a 10-minute walk from the bus station. Follow Samora Machel Street southeast for approximately 1 km until you reach the museum. Note that bus fares can vary but expect to pay around R15 to R30 depending on your starting location.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber. Simply enter 'Port Natal Maritime Museum' or the address 'Samora Machel St, Durban Central, Durban, 4001' into the app. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes from the Durban city center, and costs can range from R50 to R100 depending on traffic and your pickup location.
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