Skip the Line: Amsterdam National Maritime Museum

Visit: Het Scheepvaartmuseum| The National Maritime Museum, Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam The Netherlands

Travel independently to The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) at Amsterdam’s special part part called Oosterdok ( East Dock). 

Set in the restored 17th-century Arsenal that was Royal Dutch Navy’s storehouse, the museum houses one of the world’s largest nautical collections, spanning atlases, art, model ships, and more. It forms the backbone of the Netherlands’ maritime heritage, while giving fascinating insight into the country's elemental connection with the sea.

On arrival, use your fast-access ticket to bypass the ticket line, and head inside, admiring the modern glass roof over the courtyard. Collect an audio guide for a guided 1-hour walk-through of the highlights, or choose to wander around as you wish.

View the high-definition screens that chart the Netherlands’ Golden Age of maritime power in the 17th century, and explore the halls filled with globes, navigational instruments, ship decorations, and stunning maritime landscapes.

Take a virtual seafaring adventure, journey through old Amsterdam port, and head outside to explore the showpiece: a replica of the 18th-century Amsterdam cargo ship.

Numerous exhibits are designed for children, and the museum is wheelchair-friendly.