Part of the Estonian Maritime Museum, Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is devoted to all things seafaring. Examine life-size replicas of boats and seaplanes as well as original watercraft in this fascinating museum, which is set in an old seaplane hangar.
The hangar in which the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is housed was originally built in 1916 and 1917. At the time of its construction, the hangar was considered an architectural marvel because of the huge size of its reinforced concrete shell. Marvel at the scale of this vast building, which still remains impressive despite engineering advances.
Venture inside to view various seagoing vessels on display. Among the most notable watercraft on show is the 1930s Lembit submarine. Built by the British in 1936 for the Estonian navy, the submarine was used by the Soviets during World War II. Explore inside the submarine to get a feel for what life was like for those stationed in the underwater craft.
Get a close-up look at the replica of a Short Type 184 seaplane, the only full-scale replica of the aircraft in the world. This type of plane was used by the Estonian army prior to World War I and no original ones have survived. Continue to the outdoor area to see some moored historic ships, including the Suur Tõll, a steam-powered icebreaker that cruised the freezing Baltic waters from 1914 to 1985.
For a more interactive experience of life at sea, test out the museum’s simulators. Experience what it feels like to sink underwater in a submarine, to navigate the waters of Tallinn Bay and to fly above the Estonian capital. The museum is especially well-suited to families, and features a dedicated area for children.
Find Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour in Kalamaja, a district known for its historic workers’ wooden houses. Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour is just one part of the Estonian Maritime Museum. The museum’s other exhibits can be seen at the 16th-century cannon tower Fat Margaret in the old town. If you want to visit both sites, purchase a combination ticket to save money.
