10 Things to Do at the Larvik Maritime Museum in Larvik, Norway



Nestled in the heart of the picturesque coastal city of Larvik, Norway, the Larvik Maritime Museum (Larvik Sjøfartsmuseum) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of maritime exploration and the development of the Norwegian shipping industry. Founded in 1923, the museum houses an impressive collection of maritime artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the region’s seafaring past. Here are 10 things to do at the Larvik Maritime Museum.

1. See the Viking Ship

The centerpiece of the museum’s collection is the Viking ship, which dates back to the 9th century. This full-scale replica of a Viking longship is a marvel of craftsmanship and engineering, and visitors can explore the interior of the ship and learn about the design and construction of Viking ships.

2. Take a Tour of the Museum

The museum offers guided tours of its galleries and exhibits, allowing visitors to learn more about the history of the region’s maritime industry and the development of the Norwegian shipping industry. The tour also includes stops at the museum’s library, which contains a wealth of information about the region’s seafaring past.

3. Explore the Shipyard

The museum’s shipyard is a fascinating place to explore, with a variety of vessels on display, including a 19th-century wooden sailing ship, a modern steel trawler, and a replica of a Viking longship. Visitors can learn about the history of the vessels and their construction.

4. Check Out the Gallery of Maritime Art

The museum’s gallery of maritime art features a wide array of works by Norwegian and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The gallery also contains a variety of artifacts related to the history of the region’s seafaring industry.

5. Visit the Aquarium

The museum’s aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including seahorses, jellyfish, and sharks. Visitors can explore the aquarium and learn more about the creatures that inhabit the waters around Larvik.

6. See the Model Ships

The museum’s collection of model ships is a must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. The models range from small-scale replicas of Viking ships to large-scale replicas of modern vessels.

7. Explore the Museum’s Library

The museum’s library is a great place to learn more about the region’s maritime history and the development of the Norwegian shipping industry. The library contains a wealth of books, documents, and photographs related to the history of the region’s seafaring industry.

8. Attend a Lecture

The museum hosts lectures and seminars on a variety of topics related to maritime history and the development of the Norwegian shipping industry. Visitors can attend lectures and learn more about the region’s seafaring past.

9. Take a Boat Trip

The museum offers boat trips in the nearby fjords, allowing visitors to explore the region’s stunning coastline and learn more about the history of the region’s maritime industry.

10. Visit the Gift Shop

The museum’s gift shop is a great place to find souvenirs and mementos from your visit to the museum. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, postcards, and maritime-themed gifts.