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 played a major role in the town's development. Discover a life-size blue whale model, animals from the Arctic and Antarctic, and stories behind Norwegian whaling.

A blue whale suspended from the ceiling
In the museum's original building from 1917, a life-size blue whale model hangs from the ceiling, giving visitors of all ages a sense of the enormous scale of the world's largest animal. Surrounding the whale is a zoological exhibition featuring preserved animals and birds from the polar regions. Here, you can get a closer look at species adapted to some of the world's harshest climates.

The people behind the whaling industry
The permanent exhibition We Went Whaling explores whaling history from different perspectives. Photographs, films, objects and archival material tell the stories of Norwegian expeditions to Antarctica, encounters between cultures and the people who worked in the whaling industry. The exhibition also explores how whaling affected families back home. While many men spent months away at sea, everyday life continued in Sandefjord. Whaling created jobs and income, but also led to severe declines in whale populations and difficult conditions for many of those working in the industry.

Step aboard a historic whale catcher
Want to see what a working whale catcher looked like? During the summer, you can visit Southern Actor, moored at Museumsbrygga when available to visitors. Built in 1950, Southern Actor still has its original steam engine. On board, you can discover more about the vessel, working conditions and the technology used during the industrial whaling era. The ship has its own visitor season and may be away on other assignments. Check availability before planning your visit.

Explore more of Sandefjord's history
Whaling has left a lasting mark on Sandefjord. After visiting the museum, continue towards the harbour to see the Whaling Monument by Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen. Depicting whalers in an open boat, the sculpture is a reminder of the industry that helped shape the town's history and 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. Monday opening also applies during selected school holidays. Hours may vary around seasonal changes and public holidays.

Admission prices vary by season, and children aged six and under enter free of charge. Guided tours for groups can be booked in advance. The museum has a lift, a wheelchair-accessible entrance and accessible toilets. Parking is available nearby, and the museum is within walking distance of Sandefjord railway station.

Check current opening hours, admission prices and events at the Whaling Museum.