Flor de la Mar Maritime Museum, Melaka

On our trip to Melaka last year, we drove past this "large ship" but didn't have enough time to visit. This year, we made sure to make time to introduce the Flor de la Mar to BabySumoKids. Housed in the Maritime Museum (Muzium Samudera) in Melaka,  Flor de la Mar translates to Flower of the Sea and the ship you see here is the replica of the Portuguese nau (carrack) that sunk in November 1511 off the coast of Sumatra.

Opened since 1994, visitors can go inside the air-conditioned ship which exhibits all types of artifacts and documents relating to the maritime activities and trading history in Malacca. The original Flor de la Mar was built in Lisbon in 1502 and was one of the finest vessels of the time. Afonso de Albuquerque was returning from the conquest of Malacca, bringing with him a large treasure trove for the Portuguese king when the ship sunk.

The replica of the ship is about 34m high, 36m in length and 8m wide. It was quite interesting for the kids to walk around the ship, as well as climb up the upper deck to have a look around, especially since Daniel has been learning about Explorers in school last year. They offer audio guides in different languages to visitors (additional cost). A fine way to learn some history along the way!

Impressive looking ship

Tin Coinage from Malacca Sultanate (1400-1510)

Old cannon balls of Portuguese and Dutch Origin

Different types of trading ships

Educational and fun!

You can view one of Melaka's landmark, Menara Taming Sari from the window of the ship

Captain's cabin

On the Flor de la Mar, with Menara Taming Sari in the background

Anchor

After visiting the ship museum, you can proceed to the Museum Samudera Phase 2 located in the old Guthrie building (white one just next to the ship) to view more artifacts. This is included in your ticket price.

Replica of the first armour-clad ship in the world- Keo Buk Sun (1592) Korea

Kelantan Boat - Gagak Sura (warrior crow), used by the relatives of the king for angling or leisure rowing. 

Some details about the Maritime Museum

Opening times: Mon-Thu 9am to 5.30pm. Fri - Sun 9am - 7.30pm.

Adult ticket priced at RM5 per person, child ticket priced at RM3 per person.

Location: Samudera Flor de la Mar Museum, Jalan Merdeka, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia.(You can park at one of the car parks near Medan Samudera or Taming Sari Tower and walk over.)

Tel: 06-283 0926


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