Maritime Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Maritime Museum?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Children 4–12 get Professor Plons, Offshore Experience and workshops, plus free lifejackets and picnic spots; most content is age-targeted, but busy days need pre-booked timeslots.
Positives:
- Free harbour tour included: The guided tour is free with admission and great for all ages.
- Lifejackets on dock: Kids can play safely on the harbour jetty with free lifejackets.
- Picnic tables available: Bring snacks or lunch to use indoor and outdoor picnic spots.
Challenges:
- Age limits on exhibits: Some interactive zones require ages 4+ or 8+, so under-4s have limited options.
- Slots for water play: Plons! has limited capacity and needs a reserved time slot.
- Stairs between decks: Exhibits span two decks and involve stairs; prams require storage at the cloakroom.
What is Maritime Museum?
- A museum dedicated to the maritime history of Rotterdam, housed in 19th-century port warehouses along the Leuvehaven.
- A collection of over 30 historic vessels, detailed ship models and a comprehensive archive of nautical artifacts and port maps.
- Architectural integration of century-old industrial buildings with modern exhibition halls and dockside spaces.
What is so special about Maritime Museum for with kids?
- Interactive water-play and ship-building exhibits for kids
- Free harbour tour and kids audiotour included
- Lifejackets and picnic tables for safe, relaxed play
- Easy access pram storage and child-friendly café
- Seasonal drop-in workshops on holiday weeks
Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours
Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Families can explore exhibits, join the harbour tour and enjoy kids activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Maritime Museum
Plons! The Future of the Sea:
Interactive water play zone for ages 4+. Kids test buoyancy and sea technology.
Tip: Book your free time slot online early to secure entry.
Rondleiding Museumhaven:
45-minute harbour tour at 11:30 or 13:30. See historic ships and cranes.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes before departure; tours fill quickly on weekends.
Bestemming Havenstad Kids Audiotour:
Phone-based audio stories about six centuries of Rotterdam’s port.
Tip: Use your own device and headphones to share one tour between two kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Maritime Museum
- Visit on weekday mornings: Come early to avoid queues for Plons! and the harbour tour.
- Reserve online: Book Plons! and audiotour slots on the museum website before arrival.
- Plan wet play first: Do water exhibits first and finish with dry displays to let kids dry off.
Reviews of Maritime Museum
Irene H
We went to the museum because of the extra Christmas activities. We could dissemble old devices and make some Christmas decorations. We also had a lunch at the restaurant, food ok, prices a bit on the higher end. Toilets and restaurant were clean. Note that the theater is not a show, figural speaking the kids can roam around and do some interactive games and activities such as creating your own ...
Matthias Travis Meyer
I really enjoyed the museum and what it had to offer. It gave me very interesting insights into the port city of Rotterdam and I can use these insights I have gained for university. I wish the information boards were available in other languages than only Dutch or English, such as German or French because I heard a few people speaking those two languages and looking quite confused at times but oth...
Arisara Ch
Nice place for both parents & kids. Museum is interesting for adult, at the same time PLONS zone is very attractive to my kids. They spent several hours there while parents could have a cup of coffee in this place. Besides, they can enjoy small boat riding just in front of the museum.
Seokjin Ham
The museum is the oldest of its kind in the Netherlands and one of the most important maritime museums in Europe. Founded in 1874 on the initiative of Admiral Lodewijk Pincoffs, it explores navigation, shipbuilding, trade, port history, and life at sea. The museum is especially family-friendly, with many interactive exhibitions. Outside, the harbour in Leuvehaven lets visitors step aboard historic...
Jarosław (Zukashi_24)
Fantastic spot for families in Rotterdam! This isn’t your typical museum, it’s an interactive experience full of hands-on fun. The offshore platform is packed with engaging exhibits for both kids and adults, and the maritime history displays are really well done. Outside, you can even explore real historic ships. There’s also a cozy café and a gift shop with great souvenirs. Perfect mix of fun and...
When is the best time to visit Maritime Museum (Rotterdam, Netherlands)?
In spring and summer school holidays, join free drop-in ship-building and colouring workshops on the Geertruida ship.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult tickets (17.50€ each) | EUR 35 |
| 1 Child ticket (4–12 years) | EUR 17.5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 52.5 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Maritime Museum
Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands
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About Maritime Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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