Gothenburg Maritime Museum and Aquarium

Overview

The Gothenburg Maritime Museum and Aquarium traces the city's deep connection to the sea, from Viking longships and East India Company trade to modern shipping. The aquarium wing features Nordic marine life including sturgeon, rays, and a walk-through tropical tank.

Highlights

• Ship Models Hall: Hundreds of meticulously crafted scale models spanning five centuries of Swedish maritime history.
• Aquarium: A family-friendly section with touch pools, Nordic cold-water species, and tropical fish.
• East India Company Room: Artefacts from the ill-fated Götheborg, which sank just outside the harbour in 1745.

History

Founded in 1913, the museum initially focused on Gothenburg's commercial shipping heritage. It expanded to include an aquarium in the 1930s and underwent a major renovation in 2013 for its centennial. The building sits near the harbour, reinforcing the connection between exhibition and context.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The aquarium feeding sessions (usually at 11:00 and 14:00) are popular with children.
• Tip 2: Combine with a walk along Stigbergstorget for harbour views.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.