What we're about...

     The Jacksonville Maritime Museum Society is a nonprofit, educational association dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime history of Jacksonville and Florida’s First Coast in order to foster among all residents and visitors a deeper appreciation of our maritime heritage. The Society actively collects books, documents, artifacts, and other historical objects significant to the region and presents them to the public by means of museum displays, educational programs, lectures and publications. We also have a gift shop where visitors can find the perfect gift to remind them of Jacksonville’s maritime past, present, and future.

     The Jacksonville Maritime Museum seeks to create a positive, memorable experience for both children and adults. We operate seven days a week. School children, senior citizen groups, and tourists from all over the world visit our museum.

    The extensive collection housed in our museum includes maritime displays dating from the days of sail to modern times. Nautical artifacts include letters and telegrams, tools, instruments, dive helmets, and other interesting items from life aboard ship. The art gallery features paintings and photos of famous vessels from around the world and the area around Jacksonville. Highly detailed, scale models provide a three-dimensional look at naval vessels throughout history, some of whom even called Jacksonville their home port. Letters, journals, logs, and books bring the displays to life and help visitors understand what day-to-day life on the high seas was like for the crews who lived aboard ship.

     Please help the Jacksonville Maritime Museum in carrying out its mission by making a donation or becoming a Museum member. The Museum relies on the financial support of visitors, donors and members like you. Your contribution will help us expand our programming, develop further learning opportunities, and improve our ability to make First Coast history interesting and enjoyable for all of our visitors. You can find more information online.

     Our Museum is operated and maintained by volunteers. If you have any spare time, interest in maritime history, and the desire to pass that interest on to others, please get  in touch with us. We would be happy to talk to you about  how  you can help.