Old Harbour Museum
Old Harbour Museum
The Old Harbour Museum in Hermanus, situated along the Overberg/Whale Coast, offers a captivating glimpse into the town's rich maritime history. Housed in historic fishermen's cottages, the museum showcases exhibits that highlight Hermanus's evolution from a small fishing village to a renowned whale-watching destination. Visitors can explore displays on the local fishing industry, marine life, and the history of the old harbour itself. The museum also features artifacts, photographs, and models that provide insight into the lives of the early settlers and the development of Hermanus as a coastal town. With its picturesque setting and informative exhibits, the Old Harbour Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the cultural and maritime heritage of the region.
Here are some key features and highlights of the museum:
Overview:
- Location: Situated in the heart of Hermanus, near the original fishing harbour.
- Historical Significance: The museum is centered around the old harbour, which was declared a national monument in 1970. It was once a bustling hub for the local fishing community.
Exhibits and Attractions:
1. Maritime Artifacts:
- The museum houses a collection of historical fishing boats, equipment, and other maritime artifacts that illustrate the life and work of the early fishing community in Hermanus.
- Visitors can see traditional fishing gear, nets, and tools used by fishermen in the early 20th century.
2. Marine Life Displays:
- The museum includes exhibits on the diverse marine life found in the waters around Hermanus.
- Educational displays provide information on local fish species, marine ecosystems, and the impact of fishing on the environment.
3. Historical Photographs and Documents:
- A variety of photographs and documents offer insights into the history of Hermanus, the development of the harbour, and the lives of the people who lived and worked there.
- These exhibits help visitors understand the cultural and economic importance of the fishing industry to the region.
4. Whale Watching History:
- The museum features exhibits dedicated to the history of whale watching in Hermanus, which is known as one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching.
- Information about the migration patterns, biology, and behavior of southern right whales is presented through interactive displays and informative panels.
5. Restored Buildings and Structures:
- The museum complex includes restored buildings that were part of the original harbour, such as the old stone harbour wall and various storage sheds.
- Walking through these structures gives visitors a sense of the historical setting and daily operations of the old harbour.
Visitor Information:
- Opening Hours: Typically open daily, but it’s advisable to check current hours and any special COVID-19 regulations or holiday closures.
- Guided Tours: Available to provide a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits and the history of the harbour.
- Entrance Fees: There may be a nominal entrance fee, often used to support the maintenance and development of the museum.
Additional Activities:
- Nearby Attractions: The Old Harbour Museum is conveniently located near the Cliff Path, the Hermanus Whale Museum, and various shops, cafes, and restaurants in the town center.
- Events and Workshops: The museum sometimes hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs related to maritime history and marine conservation.
The Old Harbour Museum in Hermanus offers a unique and educational experience for visitors, highlighting the maritime heritage and natural beauty of the Overberg/Whale Coast region.
Accommodation Near Old Harbour Museum
Fig Tree Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus
0.6km from Old Harbour MuseumFig Tree Cottage offers self catering accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast. situated in the quiet suburb of Eastcliff, away from the hustle and bustle of the Hermanus village centre, yet conveniently close enough to leave your car... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Brown Jug
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Eastcliff, Hermanus
0.7km from Old Harbour MuseumBrown Jug provides visitors to Hermanus with self catering accommodation. Centrally situated in sought after Eastcliff, a quiet leafy suburb, is a mere two minute stroll to the shops, restaurants and seafront where you can enjoy the famous whale watching. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Norfolk Guest House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
1km from Old Harbour MuseumNorfolk Guest House offers accommodation on a limited self catering or room-only basis in Hermanus, and is ideally situated within easy walking distance to all the amenities and a stones throw from the cliff path, famous for unforgettable whale viewing. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 104
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
1.1km from Old Harbour MuseumBayview 104 is a spacious self catering apartment situated near the water’s edge in Hermanus, on the Western Cape's Whale Coast and can accommodate 4 guests comfortably and is a stone’s throw away from the water. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Potting Shed Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
1.1km from Old Harbour MuseumThe Potting Shed offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus Central on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Annamarie and David welcome you to our bed and breakfast accommodation. Enjoy personal service at this owner-run establishment. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bayview 303
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
1.1km from Old Harbour MuseumBayview 303 offers luxury self catering apartment accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast region, Western Cape. Our seafront apartment is centrally situated between the swimming beaches and the Hermanus town centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
On The Cliff Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
1.4km from Old Harbour MuseumOn The Cliff Guest House offers accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Hermanus Central on the Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated on the famous cliff paths of Hermanus and is also walking distance to the old harbour in the town's centre. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Anchor's Rest
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hermanus
2km from Old Harbour MuseumAnchor's Rest offers the option of bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Hermanus Central in the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. Situated in the quaint seaside village of Hermanus, 120Km from Cape Town. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
House on Westcliff
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hermanus
2.1km from Old Harbour MuseumHouse on Westcliff provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Hermanus on the Overberg / Whale Coast, Western Cape. A stone's throw from the cliff paths overlooking Walker Bay is House on Westcliff. This boutique Bed and Breakfast comprises six... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Hermanus Beach Club
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hermanus
3.2km from Old Harbour MuseumSelf Catering chalet accommodation in Hermanus, 3.2 km from Village Square. First Group Hermanus Beach Club features 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom self catering chalet accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, fitness centre and a bar. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Hermanus Whale Festival (0.07km)
- Hermanus Tidal Pool (0.34km)
- Fick's Pool - Hermanus, Western Cape (0.82km)
- Dreunkrans - Cliff Jumping in Hermanus (0.93km)
- Hermanus Country Market (1.22km)
- Fernkloof Farmers Market - Hermanus, Garden Route (1.32km)
- Hermanus Golf Course (1.49km)
- Hermanus Cliff Path (2.10km)
- Langbaai Beach (3.37km)
- Kammabaai Beach (3.66km)
- Voelklip Beach (3.85km)
- Cliff Path - Milkwood Forest, Hermanus (4.22km)
- Hermanus Wine and Food Festival (4.41km)
- Grotto Beach (4.44km)
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve - Hermanus, Garden Route (4.53km)
- Sandbaai Beach & Coastal Path - Onrus, Hermanus (5.47km)
- Onrus Beach (6.42km)
- Kalfiefees Hermanus Arts Festival (7.06km)
- Davies' Tidal Pool - Onrus (7.62km)
- Jan Rabie Tidal Pool - Onrus, Western cape (8.06km)
