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The Nieuwe Willemshaven

A decor of naval heritage, an occasional cruise ship, a light ship, a sea tug, and many, many other attractions: during your stay in Harlingen you should not miss a visit to the Nieuwe Willemshaven, the place where you will find a very special mix of the nautical past, the contemporary industry, original and unique places to stay and surprising foods & drinks.

Prime locations in The Nieuwe Willemshaven

Ships in Harlingen

Tall Ships, sea- and river cruises, and a historic fleet. Discover all of the special ships you can encounter in the ports of Harlingen.

Ships in Harlingen

DOK 5

In 2024, the creative cultural warehouse DOK 5 was opened at the Nieuwe Willemshaven. This former timber warehouse is a place where creativity, art and education converge. Are you looking for a great spot to meet and brainstorm with other artists? Or do you just want to browse around or buy unique items? Come by and be inspired by the maritime world around you.

More about DOK 5

Willem Barentsz

In the Nieuwe Willemshaven, Willem Bartentsz’ ship “De Witte Swaen”, is rebuilt, as much as possible according to the Dutch building method as used at the end of the 16th century. From the 1st of April onwards, one can visit the visitor centre at the Nieuwe Willemshaven. Until that date, De Witte Swaen’s replica can viewed in the Noorderhaven.

Learn more about Willem Barentz

Caspar de Robles

Already in the 16th century, the Spanish lieutenant-governor Caspar de Robles acknowledged that a good seawall is of vital importance for the residents behind the dike. After the All Saints’ Flood in 1570, De Robles ordered to raise the dikes. It earned him a commemorative sign in the form of the Stone Man.

Learn more about Caspar de Robles

Zuiderpier

At the beginning of the Nieuwe Willemshaven, near the beach of Harlingen, you can take a stroll on the Zuiderpier. This is the best place to soak up the maritime ambiance of Harlingen. Listen to the waves lapping against the pier, enjoy the stunning skyline of Harlingen and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling seaport. During your walk, be sure to take a moment to admire the eye-catching red radio lightship *Jenni Baynton*. Once a lightship that guided vessels safely home in English coastal waters, it’s now an iconic sight. And what’s that sperm whale doing in the water? That’s our whale fountain. At the end of the pier, you will find the "Thoughts by the Sea" mailbox, inviting walkers to pause where the pier ends, and the vast view over the Wadden Sea begins, to share their "Thoughts by the Sea" by posting an (anonymous) note in the mailbox.

Explore our other harbors as well

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