Living maritime heritage in Museumhaven Willemsoord
The Willemsoord Museum Harbour Foundation (SMW) is committed to making the Museum Harbour a fully-fledged, lively, and authentic whole. A place where historic ships are moored, restored, and maintained, and where visitors can experience the maritime craft up close.
More than just a port
Willemsoord breathes maritime history. Scattered throughout the harbor lie some 30 to 50 nautical monuments. Old ships, authentically restored or currently undergoing restoration. Thanks to maritime professionals and volunteers, these vessels remain in good condition. Workshops, a dock, and slipway facilities are essential here.
Tourist attraction and nautical center
Together with the Nautical Monuments Foundation, the SMW is working on good facilities for owners of maritime heritage. Goal: to make Willemsoord an attractive mooring place and at the same time offer a visitor-friendly experience that strengthens Den Helder as a maritime city.
Special exhibition in the Schipperscafé
During Open Monument Day, you can visit the Schipperscafé (Building 73) . Collector Henny Ottervanger displays a unique collection of postcards here featuring the former Willemsoord Royal Shipyard and the outer harbour of Den Helder.
More to experience in the Museum Harbour
Also visit:
- HNLMS Bonaire – step aboard this historic museum ship.
- Texel Lightship – discover the former lightship and its maritime history.
- Medemblikkerloods – discover a special piece of maritime heritage at Willemsoord.
- Royal Netherlands Naval Institute (KIM) – take a look at the historic naval base.
- Marine Museum Boat Shed – discover the history of the State Shipyard and the Royal Netherlands Navy.
- Exhibition Stichting Kunstuitleen Den Helder – view art at a unique historical location.
- Willemsoord Bunkers Tour – discover what lies hidden beneath the former Royal Shipyard site.
- Historical bike tour – cycle past special places and stories from the history of Den Helder.
Opening hours
- Saturday, September 12: 10:00 – 16:00
- Sunday, September 123: 10:00 – 16:00
Background information
- Type of monument: Mobile heritage
- Original function: Harbor
- Construction period: 1823
- Current function: Museum harbor
