Step aboard history at Savannah’s Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, where detailed ship models and maritime artifacts reveal centuries of Atlantic trade and naval heritage. Discover why this museum is a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts and history lovers exploring Georgia’s oldest port city.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; accessible for all ages and abilities.
Wildlife
History
Savannah’s maritime history dates back to its founding in 1733, playing a key role in Atlantic trade throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
Conservation
The museum promotes maritime heritage preservation and encourages visitors to respect historical artifacts and the surrounding urban environment.
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
Step aboard history at Savannah’s Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, where detailed ship models and maritime artifacts reveal centuries of Atlantic trade and naval heritage. Discover why this museum is a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts and history lovers exploring Georgia’s oldest port city.
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum preserves and interprets Savannah’s maritime history through a focused collection of ship models, artifacts, and period displays. Located in historic Savannah, the museum houses nine galleries that chronicle Atlantic trade, coastal navigation, and life at sea from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors encounter intricately detailed wooden ship models, navigational instruments, maritime paintings, and archival documents that illuminate regional commerce, shipbuilding, and seafaring culture. Admission includes access to permanent galleries and rotating exhibits designed for self-guided exploration and educational visits. Special programs such as guided talks, evening events like Sea of Ink: Night at the Museum, and family-friendly activities expand interpretation beyond the display cases. The museum’s curatorial approach emphasizes provenance, restoration standards, and archival research to ensure accurate storytelling. As a civic cultural institution, the museum partners with local historians, preservationists, and school programs to support community engagement and maritime scholarship. The collection’s documented artifacts and professionally maintained ship models reflect an investment in conservation and public education. Clear labeling, gallery narratives, and accessible layouts help visitors of all ages connect with Savannah’s seafaring legacy. Reliable visitor information—hours, ticketing, and exhibit details—is published through official channels and on-site staff provide assistance. The museum’s focus on preservation, education, and community partnerships makes it a credible destination for history enthusiasts, school groups, and travelers seeking an informed, engaging look at coastal and Atlantic maritime history. Interpretive labels, docent talks, and conservation reports further support detailed research and visitor learning opportunities across all museum programs today.
Location
Savannah, GA
Historic downtown setting
Galleries
9
Nine curated galleries
Era Focus
18th–19th C
Maritime history time span
Collections
Ship models & artifacts
Intricately detailed ship models
Secure tickets, check hours, and reserve special-event access for Museum General Admission or Sea of Ink: Night at the Museum.
Check Last Admission Time
Plan to arrive before 4:15pm to ensure full access to all nine galleries during museum hours.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum’s exhibits span multiple rooms—comfortable footwear helps you explore thoroughly.
Combine with Historic District Walking Tour
Pair your visit with a stroll around Savannah’s Historic District for a full cultural experience.
Visit the Gardens
Take a moment to enjoy the museum’s peaceful gardens after your visit to relax outdoors.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for navigating the museum’s galleries and nearby historic district on foot.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Museum interiors can be cool, especially in autumn—layer up for comfort.
fall
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is useful if you plan to explore the surrounding historic district on a warm day.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture detailed ship models and gallery highlights for memories and sharing.