Willem Barentsz Expedition Ship

The Willem Barentsz Expedition Ship in Harlingen offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back into the Age of Exploration and experience Dutch maritime history firsthand. Moored in the harbor of Harlingen, this ship is a faithful reconstruction of the Witte Swaen (White Swan), the vessel used by explorer Willem Barentsz during his legendary Arctic voyages in the late 16th century. The project to rebuild the ship took over a decade and more than 30,000 hours of dedicated work by local volunteers and craftsmen, reflecting the community’s pride in their seafaring heritage.

As you approach the ship, its robust wooden hull and intricate rigging immediately capture the imagination. Guided tours are often available, allowing you to explore the decks, peer into the cramped quarters where sailors lived, and learn about the challenges faced during Barentsz’s expeditions to the Arctic, including the search for a Northeast Passage and the dramatic overwintering on Nova Zembla.

Interpretive panels and knowledgeable guides share stories of navigation, survival, and discovery, making the visit engaging for both adults and children. The ship’s location in Harlingen’s historic harbor adds to the atmosphere, surrounded by other classic vessels and the lively activity of a working port. For anyone interested in Dutch history, exploration, or traditional shipbuilding, the Willem Barentsz Expedition Ship is a memorable stop on a journey through Friesland.