The Seaplane Harbour

The Seaplane Harbour’s seaplane hangar is a true masterpiece of engineering, completed in 1917 and a full 20 years ahead of its time. The most astonishing part of the building is its innovative reinforced-concrete shell roof, only 8–15 centimetres thick. To grasp how extraordinary this solution is, compare it with the famous Roman Pantheon’s 3-metre-thick ceiling.

The brightest star of the Seaplane Harbour’s exhibition is the submarine Lembit, completed in England in 1937 on the order of the Republic of Estonia. Lembit holds the world record as the submarine that spent the longest time – a full 75 years – in the water. Today this exceptional vessel has been lifted inside the hangar, offering everyone a unique chance to explore a submarine from within. The Seaplane Harbour is also home to the world’s only full-scale replica of the Short-184 seaplane, which can be admired up close from the bridge on a guided visit. Outside by the quay, another rarity awaits visitors – the steam icebreaker Suur Tõll. This mighty vessel is just two years younger than the famous Titanic and has survived in astonishingly authentic condition. A walk through Suur Tõll’s engine room or captain’s cabin feels like travelling back in time.

There is joy of discovery for everyone at the Seaplane Harbour, both inside the hangar and strolling on the quay. And if that is still not enough, it is worth visiting its branch, Fat Margaret.

The current temporary exhibition The Call of the Sea. The art collection of the Estonian Maritime Museum is on display until 01.11.2026. 

Seaplane Harbour ticket prices can be found here.