Secrets of the sea Museum

The Whaling Museum
At the Whaling Museum, you can rediscover a forgotten chapter of history. Whaling was once a vital industry that played a key role in Europe's development. Whale oil was used for lighting lamps and lubricating machinery. In the exhibition, you’ll see how whaling was carried out and the impressive – and deadly – tools that were used.

The Diving Museum
The Diving History Museum is Denmark's first museum dedicated to the history of diving – from the earliest techniques to modern times. See the famous Thisted Bell, which made it possible to excavate the mighty Swedish warship Vasa. Inside the bell, divers used a small candle that not only provided light but also indicated when the oxygen was running low. Explore the exciting and nerve-wracking world of diving up close, including King Frederik's own diving chair, used during one of his expeditions.

The Explosion Museum
Here in the Explosion Museum, you'll find a large and fascinating collection of bombs and explosives – all, of course, made safe. The exhibition ranges from small hand grenades to the terrifying atomic bombs used during World War II. Our guiding principle is clear: “War should not be glorified – but history must be told.” The bombs bear witness to the horrors of war and the many tragic events that took place – as physical proof of the sins of the past.

The Shipwreck Museum
In the Shipwreck Museum, you enter a world of maritime disasters and seafaring history – from Viking ships to modern passenger liners. Every shipwreck tells a dramatic story. See, for example, our detailed reconstruction of the final moments of the Greenlandic ship Hans Hedtoft, whose radio operator sent out a final distress call. Get a unique insight into the haunting imagery from the Estonia disaster, which has sparked many myths. Here, we present everything known about the tragedy.

The museum also covers some of the greatest maritime catastrophes of modern times – including the many thousands of women and children who lost their lives fleeing across the Baltic Sea in the final months of the war. We also tell the story of large ships filled with concentration camp prisoners mistakenly attacked by British aircraft – a tragic error.

We have a whole section dedicated to submarine disasters, with salvaged artifacts and stories about the harsh life aboard submarines. Many of these wrecks lie just off the Danish coast.

Gallery Hall and Curiosities
Wander through our gallery hall featuring paintings of Danish war wrecks, ship models, and a wide array of fascinating curiosities from different time periods. Throughout the museum, you can immerse yourself in dramatic groundings and shipwrecks portrayed in atmospheric paintings.

Need a break?
Our self-service café offers cold drinks and small refreshments – perfect for recharging before more exploration.

Accessibility for wheelchair users:
There is a ramp at the museum entrance, making access easy. The museum has two floors, but it's easy to move between them using the elevator located next to the stairs at the reception. The entire museum has hard flooring and wide corridors. Exhibitions are easily accessible, so wheelchair users can enjoy the same great experience as everyone else. There is also an accessible restroom.

We recommend contacting the museum in advance to learn more about accessibility options.