The Seaplane Harbour of the Estonian Maritime Museum closed its doors to visitors on 1 January this year to undergo thorough refurbishment. From 12 May, everyone is welcome to visit the museum again to see the new permanent exhibition.
‘The renovation project had three main goals – to create new and exciting thematic areas, further enhance the family visit experience, and make the Seaplane Harbour the most accessible museum in Estonia,’ said Urmas Dresen, Member of the Board of the Estonian Maritime Museum.
‘The fields of underwater archaeology, maritime rescue, waterborne aircraft, the navy, and marine conservation have become the leading interactive areas,’ said Dresen.
The Seaplane Harbour museum’s new family trail features playful cat-shaped landmarks to explore, and questions to answer. It ends with the opportunity to design your own vehicle to be sent under the Seaplane Harbour’s dome.
Dresen pointed out that, apart from the popular simulators, numerous interactive activities have been developed for children and families in the new thematic areas. A new short film for kids is also being screened in the yellow submarine, showcasing the ever-changing Baltic Sea. ‘Also worth mentioning is the brand new toddlers’ area, with plenty to explore and try out for the little ones.’
Accessibility was one of the main priorities of the renovation. In the soon-to-open Seaplane Harbour, the ticket offices will be equipped with audio loops, the videos will have audio loops and sign-language interpretation, and the interior of the building and the exposition will be equipped with a guideway and tactile exhibits. ‘By the summer, we will also have an audio guide for the visually impaired,’ Dresen promised, adding, ‘Physical accessibility for visitors in wheelchairs has been kept in mind throughout the building.’
The renovated Seaplane Harbour will open to visitors at 10 am on 12 May 2024. Dresen pointed out that there will be even more reasons to visit the museum that day: ‘We welcome everyone to come and rediscover the Seaplane Harbour on Mother’s Day. On the opening day, we also have an exciting programme – a presentation of the children’s book Sea Adventure of Kipper the Cat, created especially for the Seaplane Harbour, a concert by Silver Sepp, surprising water-themed science experiments, and tours of the new exhibition.’
Photos: Joosep Kään. More photos HERE
