Ramsgate Maritime Museum

What to see at the Ramsgate Maritime Museum

Visitors to the Ramsgate Maritime Museum can discover a treasure trove of artefacts, models and exhibits that tell the stories of Ramsgate’s maritime history. From its origins as a fishing and trading port to its role as a pivotal naval location, the museum portrays Ramsgate’s connection with the sea.

The museum includes interactive displays that highlight the lives of local fishermen, sailors and lifeboat crews with exhibits that include intricate ship models, detailing vessels that once navigated these waters as well as artefacts including authentic maritime tools and navigational instruments. Through engaging exhibitions, visitors gain insights into wartime exploits, smuggling tales and the transformation of Ramsgate harbour over the centuries.

The museum also has two museum ships that are sometimes open to the public. These are the steam tug Cervia and Sundowner, a motor yacht owned by Charles Lightoller, second officer on RMS Titanic, which took part in the Dunkirk evacuation.

Visiting the Ramsgate Maritime Museum

The Ramsgate Maritime Museum is located next to Ramsgate’s yacht harbour and just a short walk from most points of interest in the town centre.

The museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays between Easter and late September.

Steam tug Cervia is open to visitors on weekends between Easter and September but motor yacht Sundowner is only open by appointment during this period.