Old Harbour Museum, Hermanus

Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Hermanus, South Africa, the Old Harbour Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region's maritime history. This open-air museum, located on the seafront, is a historical site that preserves the fishing and whaling heritage of the once bustling old harbour.

The Old Harbour Museum consists of two main sections: the historical Old Harbour itself, which has been declared a national monument, and the indoor museum housed in the restored Old Harbour Shed. The open-air museum portion includes several exhibits that display the original harbour's infrastructure, such as the old crane, the brine tanks used for preserving fish, and a variety of fishing boats that showcase the evolution of local fishing techniques.

Visitors can explore the indoor museum to learn about the early days of Hermanus as a fisherman's village and its subsequent development into a whaling station. The museum's exhibits are rich with artifacts, photographs, and tools that were once used by the local fishing community. They tell the story of the men and women who braved the Atlantic waters, contributing to the town's economic growth.

The Old Harbour Museum is not just a place to reflect on the past; it also provides educational opportunities for all ages. It hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs that delve into environmental issues, emphasizing the importance of ocean conservation and the impact of historical practices on marine life.

For those looking to enjoy the beauty of Hermanus, the museum's location is ideal. After exploring the exhibits, visitors can take a leisurely walk along the cliffs for a chance to spot whales in the bay during the whale-watching season, which runs from June to December.