Forum Marinum Maritime Centre
Introduction
The Forum Marinum Maritime Centre, located at Linnankatu 72 in Turku, Finland, offers an inspiring journey into the maritime heritage of southwest Finland and the Baltic region. Situated on the banks of the River Aura, just a short walk from historic Turku Castle, this lively maritime hub combines engaging exhibitions, historic vessels, and family-friendly experiences. Whether you are a naval history enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or someone organizing an event, Forum Marinum has something to offer everyone.
About the Museum
Forum Marinum is a national centre dedicated to maritime history, encompassing both a specialist museum of seafaring and the Finnish Navy Museum. Founded in 1998 and officially opened in 1999, it represents a merger of two earlier institutions—the Turku Maritime Museum and the Åbo Akademi University Museum of Maritime History—bringing together decades of expertise. Its mission is to preserve and promote the rich maritime legacy of Finland’s south‑west coast, the Archipelago Sea, and the Baltic Sea.
Set across both historic buildings and museum vessels moored along the river, Forum Marinum offers a diverse range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore “Working at Sea”, a modern permanent exhibition that reveals the daily lives of seafarers, as well as thematic displays on Finnish shipbuilding, marine engines, and naval service.
Outside in the summer months, a fleet of museum ships is open for boarding. Highlights include the full‑rigged ship Suomen Joutsen, the wooden barque Sigyn, the steam tugboat Vetäjä V, and several former naval vessels such as the corvette Karjala and motor torpedo boats.
Forum Marinum is more than a museum: it also hosts public events, meetings, lectures, and children’s birthday parties. Its on‑site Restaurant Göran serves delicious lunches and coffee, while the museum shop offers themed gifts, books, and quality textiles.
Interesting Facts
- Historic origins: The museum’s roots trace back to institutions founded in 1936 and 1977, combined into Forum Marinum in 1998 to safeguard regional maritime heritage.
- Impressive vessel fleet: In summer, visitors can board two tall sailing ships, four former naval vessels, and a steam harbour tug, alongside smaller crafts from police and pilot services.
- Children’s hands‑on fun: The museum features interactive galleries such as the Children’s Maritime Museum—where little sailors can steer, hoist sails, and explore—plus a “Sea Monsters” exhibition designed to thrill younger guests.
- Unique outdoor artwork: Outside lies the “Archipelago Sea Square” adorned with 4 550 donor‑engraved tiles, symbolizing the islands of Finland’s Archipelago Sea and highlighting environmental conservation efforts.
- Underwater warfare digital exhibition: Forum Marinum curates a virtual 360° exhibition on the history of Finnish naval mines, torpedoes, and submarine warfare, available online with guided tours by arrangement.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +35 840 552 5477
Website: forum-marinum.fi/fi/
Facebook: facebook.com/forummarinum
Conclusion
The Forum Marinum Maritime Centre provides a captivating blend of history, culture, and hands‑on discovery in a picturesque riverside setting. Its expert stewardship of maritime heritage, coupled with engaging shipboard experiences, family‑friendly activities, and event‑hosting amenities, makes it a vibrant destination for visitors of all ages. From the grandeur of its tall ships and naval vessels to interactive children’s exhibitions and conservation initiatives, Forum Marinum celebrates the enduring spirit of the sea. A visit to Turku is not complete without stepping aboard, exploring the galleries, savouring a meal by the river, and feeling the heartbeat of Finnish seafaring tradition.
