Museum Batavialand

Museum Batavialand offers a one‑of‑a‑kind experience where maritime history, shipbuilding and water management intersect. Located in Lelystad in the province of Flevoland, this museum invites you to embark on a captivating journey through the stories of water: how the Dutch have battled and shaped the sea for centuries. At Batavialand you’ll find three major experiences in one: stepping aboard the impressive 17th‑century ship Batavia, exploring the shipyard with its traditional crafts, and discovering exhibitions about the creation of Flevoland.

Maritime heritage and adventure

The centerpiece is the full‑scale replica of the VOC ship Batavia. This model ship transports you back to the era of Dutch maritime trade and exploration. The wooden decks, the rigging, the craftsmanship – every detail evokes life at sea, the teamwork of the crew, and daily life aboard a trading vessel in the Golden Age.

Craftsmanship and shipbuilding

The shipyard is alive with activity, showcasing the traditional techniques of rope‑making, wood‑carving and sail‑making – crafts that have underpinned Dutch shipbuilding for centuries. Visitors gain a tactile, immersive insight into the skill and labour behind constructing large seafaring vessels.

Water, land‑reclamation and Flevoland’s story

The museum also vividly tells the story of Flevoland: how the Zuiderzee was transformed, how land was reclaimed from the sea and how people shaped the landscape. Interactive exhibitions cover underwater archaeology, ancient shipwrecks and the history of living by the water. The combination of maritime heritage and polder‑history makes the museum truly distinctive.

For all ages

Museum Batavialand is especially well suited for families, school groups and anyone curious about Dutch history. The mix of a grand ship, skilled crafts in action and modern interactive displays ensures a rich visitor experience — whether you’re passionate about ships, engineering, water management or simply looking for an engaging outing.