Curaçao Maritime Museum

About this place

TheTrip Curaçao

Step into more than 500 years of Curaçao’s maritime and national history at the Curaçao Maritime Museum, located in the heart of Willemstad’s historic Scharloo district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just a short walk from the famous Queen Emma Bridge and the cruise terminals, this museum offers a deeper look into the island’s identity, shaped for centuries by the sea.

The museum takes visitors on a journey through Curaçao’s rich maritime heritage with nautical charts, ship models, navigation equipment, and engaging exhibits spread across multiple floors. From the earliest explorations to the rise of cruise tourism and the island’s strategic role in regional trade, the collection gives valuable insight into how maritime history and Curaçao’s wider story are closely connected.

One of the museum’s standout additions is the remarkable Curaçao oil refinery model, crafted by the late Mr. Vos, a former Shell employee. This detailed model highlights the refinery’s operations and historical significance, offering visitors a rare and fascinating perspective on an important part of the island’s industrial past.

The experience goes beyond ships and harbor history. The Curaçao Maritime Museum also explores the broader cultural heritage of the island and the ways the sea has influenced daily life, trade, development, and identity. Interactive and educational displays help bring the past to life, making the museum an interesting stop for both adults and children.

On the third floor, visitors can explore a modern exhibition about the Dutch Navy and its role in the Dutch Caribbean. Through interactive audio-visual presentations, this section explains the navy’s ongoing presence and significance for the islands today.

Please note: the famous Harbor Tour is currently temporarily unavailable due to logistical reasons, as no ship is available at this time. The museum is working to resume this experience as soon as possible.

The museum is open almost every day from 10:30 till 15:30. Children under 4 years old enter for free, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information and current opening hours, visit the official website: Curaçao Maritime Museum.

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We’re here to help! Whether you have questions about our tours, need assistance with your booking, or require any other support, our dedicated team is ready to assist you.

Contact us: info@thetripcuracao.com , +31684163585

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