Bahamas Maritime Museum, Freeport

The Bahamas Maritime Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through The Bahamas' rich maritime history. Officially opened on August 8, 2022, the museum is a testament to the country's deep-seated connection to the sea, spanning over 700 islands and cays.

As visitors step into the Bahamas Maritime Museum, they embark on a voyage through time, exploring the various chapters of The Bahamas' maritime legacy. From the ancient Lucayan free-divers who once inhabited the islands to the harrowing tales of the transatlantic slave trade, water has always played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's history.

One of the focal points of the museum is the story of the Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas (Our Lady of Wonders), which met its fate on January 4, 1656, when it sank off the northern islands of The Bahamas. The remains of this majestic vessel serve as the museum's sunken crown jewel, offering visitors a tangible link to the past and a glimpse into the maritime adventures that unfolded centuries ago.

Through captivating exhibits and interactive displays, the Bahamas Maritime Museum delves into various themes, including the Spanish treasure fleets, the era of piracy that once made The Bahamas the pirate capital of the Americas, and the intricate network of trade routes that crisscrossed the region.