Interactive Museum in Den Helder
The National Rescue Museum tells the story of lifesaving at sea in the Netherlands. There's plenty to do for both young and old. A visit to the museum is not just enjoyable but an interactive experience.
VR Experience: Sea Rescue
Step into a lifelike sea rescue mission from now on. Put on your VR goggles and board the NH1816, the most modern harbor rescue boat of the KNRM since 2015. In this thrilling virtual reality experience, you become a crew member of this latest harbor rescue boat. The pager goes off, man overboard. You spring into action!
Wind Tunnel and Boat Simulator
At sea, the weather is often stormy. Ever wondered how it feels when the wind is howling around you? Experience it in our wind tunnel with wind force 10. Feel the wild sea like a real rescuer in our boat simulator. And how do rescuers communicate? Send a message in Morse code and learn flag signaling.
Heroes Game and Films
Historical films on a large screen take you into the world of rescuers from the past. A rescue mission requires courage, knowledge, and determination. Save a crew member with our digital heroes game and step into the shoes of rescuers from the past.
Audio Tours in and around the Museum
Our free audio tour guides you through the museum, recounting stories from the past. Exciting, fun, and informative! Of course, our museum is filled with historical lifeboats. Take a look and learn about the evolution of lifesaving. We offer an audio tour for adults and a special one for children.
On the Willemsoord grounds, where the National Rescue Museum is located, you can also take an audio tour. Starting outside the museum, this tour explores the rich history of this area and its "residents": the many old ships docked here. It's a wonderful piece of cultural heritage in Den Helder coming to life. This audio tour costs €2 and is available at the counter or via the online ticket shop. There are audio tours for both adults and children.
Knot Table
The best helmsmen know their knots! At our knot table, you can learn various nautical knots. A KNRM crew member explains exactly what to do in instructional videos. After a knot tying lesson, you'll have it mastered. A must for every sea rescuer!
Join a Lifeboat Tour
Seven operational historical lifeboats are moored at the museum's pier. Some of these are also used for commercial cruises. From April 1 to November 1, you can take a boat tour. Volunteers conduct half-hour tours from 12:00 to 16:00 through Den Helder's inner harbor. The Valentine-class lifeboat can be viewed up close from an elevated platform.
