Historic Batavia reconstruction moved to new museum location

A full-size reconstruction of the 17th-century Dutch ship Batavia has reached its new home at Museum Batavialand in Lelystad. The 646-tonne wooden ship was moved from Damen Shiprepair Amsterdam on October 2 and placed on a permanent concrete foundation the next day. Marine Insight reported on the operation.

The Batavia is a reconstruction of a Dutch East India Company (VOC) ship that sailed in 1628. Built between 1985 and 1995, the ship was moved on a 101.2-tonne steel cradle. Two self-propelled transporter systems, each using 28 axle lines, carried the ship from the pontoon to the museum.

The number of axles was not only needed because of the ship's weight. The transport team also had to protect the old wooden hull from bending. Engineers spent ten months planning the move and worked out exactly where the ship could safely be supported.

The 250-metre route was also carefully prepared. A special ramp led from the water to the dike, while mats helped spread the weight over the ground. Engineers checked the soil, ground pressure and underground pipes and cables before the operation. Several lamp posts and other street equipment were removed to make room for the transporters.

After leaving the pontoon, the team turned the ship and moved it backwards into its final position. The project required cooperation with local authorities and water management organisations because the dike was a key part of the route.

The Batavia now stands more than eight metres higher than at its old location near the museum quay. The new position should also help preserve the wooden ship. On land, the timber can dry better and workers will have easier access for maintenance.

The ship will become the centrepiece of the redeveloped Museum Batavialand, which is expected to open at the end of 2028.

 

Picture: Museum Batavia Land