Historic Dutch warehouse: Housed in a 1671 Dutch built storehouse embedded in the Galle Fort ramparts, the museum combines grandeur and authenticity Opening dates: Opened on 9 May 1992, then reopened in March 2010 after extensive renovation following damage from the 2004 tsunami Renovation support: The Netherlands funded the 3 year restoration under a cultural cooperation program The museum isn't just a display it's a celebration of Galle’s seafaring legacy, colonial history, and marine ecosystems. Ideal for families, history buffs, photographers, and eco conscious traveler's plus, it’s a great rainy day attraction with air conditioned comfort and insightful exhibits. 🧭 Exhibits & Highlights Shipwreck treasures Artefact's recovered from wrecks, including Dutch “Avondster” relics (beer mugs, cannonballs, pipes) and 800 year old ceramics, coins, ropes, anchors . Nautical models and charts Scale models of Dutch, Portuguese, and British vessels (like the Staaten Jacht), plus traditional Sri Lankan fishing boats like oruwa and kattumaram Marine ecology displays Dioramas revealing coral reefs, sea grass beds, marine mammals, shells, and even a large whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling Naval relics & instruments Historic compasses, navigational charts, artillery pieces, and the wheel from Sri Lanka’s first naval warship Interactive and educational zones Multi language information panels, lectures, and exhibits on marine conservation and sustainable fishing