Het Scheepvaartmuseum in Amsterdam maps the powerful role that the Netherlands has always played in naval trade, including the Dutch Golden Age, when the country was the envy of all of Europe. Packed full of history, this place really is extraordinary, not least due to the beautiful architecture. As visitors walk into the room,their eyes are immediately drawn to the breathtaking glass ceiling that sits proudly above them.
Background on Het Scheepvaartmuseum
Het Scheepvaartmuseum boasts an impressive collection of historic ships, including the full-scale replica of the 18th-century Dutch East India Company (VOC) ship, the Amsterdam. Visitors can explore this magnificent vessel and get a glimpse into what life was like for sailors from The Netherlands during the Golden Age of exploration.
What can you do at Het Scheepvaartmuseum?
There are tons of things to see and do at Het Scheepvaartmuseum, aka the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam. You can step aboard meticulously reconstructed replicas of old ships and explore the interactive exhibits. The impressive collection of maritime artifacts, navigation instruments, and art pieces will impress any art enthusiast. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs for both adults and children and boasts a fantastic view of the docklands too.
What’s more, Candlelight concerts at Het Scheepvaartmuseum are truly enchanting and memorable experiences. The soft, flickering candlelight not only adds a touch of romance but also enhances the magical atmosphere. You can hear tributes to a huge array of artists, from Imagine Dragons to Queen, all performed by talented musicians surrounded by thousands of candles.
What are the opening hours at Het Scheepvaartmuseum?
The museum is open from 10am-5pm every day.
How much are tickets to Het Scheepvaartmuseum?
Het Scheepvaartmuseum tickets cost €18,50 for adults aged 18 years and over. Tickets for children between 13-17 are € 8,50 and children 12 and under can enter for free. There are also some tickets at a discounted price for students (€ 8,50) and members of Vereeniging & Het Compagnie Fonds (free). You can also purchase drinks and snacks at the on-site coffee shop for an additional charge.
Is the museum fully accessible?
Most exhibitions and facilities are accessible via lifts. An elevator is installed at the VOC ship Amsterdam. However, the upper deck and the lower part of the ship are not accessible for wheelchair users.
Het Scheepvaartmuseum’s proximity to the waterfront means that it offers breathtaking views of Amsterdam’s picturesque canals. Plus, it’s well connected to public transport – you can get the bus to Kattenburgerplein. Amsterdam is full of beautiful buildings, but only a few specially selected venues have been selected to host Candlelight concerts alongside Het Scheepvaartmuseum. These spots are simply stunning, and they’re even more gorgeous when illuminated by thousands of candles.