The Whaling Museum

The Whaling Museum in central Sandefjord explores the history of whaling, wildlife in the polar regions and the people who worked in an industry that shaped the town. Discover a life-size blue whale model, exhibitions featuring animals from the Arctic and Antarctic, and the stories behind Norway's whaling history.

A blue whale above your head

In the museum's original building from 1917, a life-size blue whale model hangs from the ceiling. It is a highlight for visitors of all ages, offering a sense of the extraordinary size of the world's largest animal. The surrounding zoological exhibition features preserved animals and birds from the polar regions, giving visitors a closer look at wildlife adapted to some of the world's harshest environments.

The people behind the whaling industry

The permanent exhibition "We Were Out to Get Whales" explores whaling history from several perspectives. Photographs, films, artefacts and archive material tell the stories of Norwegian expeditions to Antarctica, encounters between different cultures and the people who worked in the industry. The exhibition also explores how whaling affected families back home. While many men spent months at sea, daily life continued in Sandefjord. Whaling brought jobs and income to the region, but also had serious consequences for whale populations and the people involved in the industry.

Step aboard a historic whale catcher

During the summer season, you can also visit the whale catcher Southern Actor, moored at the museum quay in Sandefjord when available to visitors. Built in 1950, Southern Actor still has its original steam engine. A visit aboard offers a closer look at the vessel and the technology of industrial whaling. The ship has a separate visitor season and may be unavailable when away on other assignments.

Explore Sandefjord's maritime history

Whaling has left a lasting mark on Sandefjord. After visiting the museum, take a walk towards the harbour to see the Whaling Monument, a sculpture by Knut Steen depicting whalers in an open boat. The monument is another way to discover how the history of whaling remains part of the town's identity.

Plan your visit

The Whaling Museum is located at Museumsgaten 39 in central Sandefjord.

During the low season from 12 October, the museum is normally open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. During the high season from 1 June to 31 August, it is open daily from 11 am to 4 pm.

Additional Monday opening applies during certain school holidays. Check the latest hours around seasonal changes. Admission prices vary between the high and low seasons, and children aged six and under enter free of charge. Guided group tours are also available and must be arranged in advance.

The museum has a lift, wheelchair ramp and accessible toilet. Parking is available nearby, and Sandefjord railway station is within walking distance.

Check the museum's official website for the latest opening hours, admission prices and events before your visit.