Museum harbour Greifswald

The Museum harbour Greifswald, known locally as Museumshafen Greifswald, is a captivating maritime museum nestled in the picturesque town of Greifswald in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. This enchanting harbour is not just a feast for the eyes but a journey through time, showcasing a rich collection of traditional ships that tell tales of the sea's bygone days. As the largest museum harbour in Germany, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into maritime history, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nautical enthusiasts alike.

The Origins of Museum harbour Greifswald

The story of the Museum harbour Greifswald begins in the 1980s, during a time when the region was part of the German Democratic Republic. It was born from the passion of a group known as the Fischereitradition within the Kulturbund, who were dedicated to preserving the rich fishing traditions of the area. Despite initial challenges due to political concerns about having too many ships near the border with Poland, the group persevered. In 1988, the first gathering of traditional ships, primarily Zeesboote, took place, marking the beginning of what would become an annual event known as the Gaffelrigg.

A New Era Post-Reunification

Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, the town of Greifswald saw a transformation. The old city harbour was no longer used for commercial shipping, allowing for a new vision to emerge. Connections with the Museum harbour Flensburg were established, leading to the first joint event, the Deutsch-Deutsches Gaffeldurcheinander, in 1990. The official founding of the Museumshafen Greifswald e.V. in 1991 marked the beginning of a new chapter, with the aim of preserving and operating a museum harbour in the Hanseatic town of Greifswald.

Exploring the Museum harbour Today

Today, the Museum harbour Greifswald is a vibrant hub of activity and a living testament to maritime heritage. With over 50 historic vessels, it stands as a guardian of nautical history. Visitors can wander along the quays, admiring the beautifully restored ships, each with its own unique story. Among the notable vessels are the Lovis, a logger with a metal hull dating back to 1897, and the Nordwind, a 1919 herring cutter, both maintained by dedicated associations.

The harbour is not just about static displays; it's a place where history comes alive. The annual Gaffelrigg event, held every third weekend in July, is a highlight, drawing crowds to witness the gathering of these majestic ships. Another tradition, the Winteransegeln, has been embraced since 1996, adding to the harbour's calendar of events.

The Buchholzschen Werft: A Historic Shipyard

One of the hidden gems of the Museum harbour Greifswald is the Buchholzschen Werft, the last surviving boatyard of its kind in the area. Thanks to the efforts of a dedicated association, this shipyard has been transformed into a technical museum, offering a hands-on experience for those interested in the restoration and maintenance of historic vessels. It serves as a self-help workshop, allowing enthusiasts to engage directly with the maritime heritage.

The Ships of the Museum harbour

The collection of ships at the Museum harbour Greifswald is diverse and fascinating. Among them is the Alfred, a 1913 vessel owned by a private individual, and the Hanne Marie, a 1919 herring cutter maintained by the Hanne Marie e.V. association. Each ship is a floating piece of history, offering insights into the craftsmanship and maritime practices of the past.

One of the most intriguing vessels is the Pomeria, a former steam icebreaker that now houses a charming onboard restaurant, the Hornfischbar!, providing a unique dining experience with a view of the historic harbour.

Conclusion: A Journey Through Time

The Museum harbour Greifswald is more than just a collection of ships; it's a living museum that captures the spirit of maritime adventure and tradition. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a curious traveler, a visit to this harbour promises a memorable experience. As you stroll along the waterfront, surrounded by the echoes of seafaring tales, you'll find yourself transported to a world where the sea was both a livelihood and a way of life.

In conclusion, the Museum harbour Greifswald is a testament to the enduring allure of the sea and the dedication of those who strive to preserve its history. It's a place where the past meets the present, inviting visitors to explore, learn, and be inspired by the rich maritime heritage of Greifswald.