Historic Shipyard Wolthuis - Sappemeer

Shipbuilding in Hoogezand-Sappemeer has a long tradition, and Shipyard Wolthuis is living proof of that. This yard has been building ships since the 19th century and has played an important role in the Dutch shipping industry.

Historic Shipyard Wolthuis in Sappemeer is one of the oldest shipyards in the province of Groningen, with a history dating back more than 300 years. Ships were built and repaired at this location for centuries, until the damming of the Winschoterdiep between 1970 and 1980 made accessibility for ships impossible. This led to the closure of the shipyard in 1983.

After the closure, the idea of turning the yard into a museum soon emerged, driven by the historical value of the site, the monumental character of the buildings and the extensive collection of tools and machinery. In 2013, the yard officially opened its doors as the Historic Wolthuis Shipyard and was granted national monument status. Today, it functions as a working museum, where restoration, repair and maintenance of (historical) ships take place.

Here you will experience the authentic atmosphere of peat-colonial shipbuilding. The shipyard offers exhibitions and demonstrations of original old tools and machinery, giving you a unique insight into traditional shipbuilding methods.