SS Sołdek
Explore the SS Sołdek, a post-WWII freighter turned maritime museum, showcasing Poland's shipbuilding heritage and sailor life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
SS Sołdek
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the SS Sołdek, a post-WWII freighter turned maritime museum, showcasing Poland's shipbuilding heritage and sailor life.
"A fantastic experience, well worth the admission ticket. Great for kids, they loved being on and in the Sołdek."
🎟️ Combined Tickets Offer Value
Consider a combined ticket for the SS Sołdek and other nearby maritime museums to save money and time.
🗣️ English Information Can Be Limited
While some exhibits have English explanations, much of the detailed information might be in Polish. Grab a leaflet for better understanding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Engine Room
Lower decks
Marvel at the impressive post-WWII steam engine, a testament to Polish shipbuilding prowess. It's a highlight for many visitors.
Captain's Bridge
Upper deck
Imagine commanding the ship from this vantage point, offering panoramic views of the Motława River.
Crew Quarters
Various decks
Get a sense of daily life aboard this historic vessel by exploring the compact living spaces of the crew.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Allocate Enough Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combined Tickets Offer Value
Consider a combined ticket for the SS Sołdek and other nearby maritime museums to save money and time.
🗣️ English Information Can Be Limited
While some exhibits have English explanations, much of the detailed information might be in Polish. Grab a leaflet for better understanding.
🚢 Great for Kids
Children often love exploring the ship, especially the engine room and different decks. It's an engaging experience for them.
📍 Prime Riverside Location
The ship's location on the Motława River is fantastic, making it easy to combine with visits to other Gdańsk attractions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combined Tickets Offer Value
Consider a combined ticket for the SS Sołdek and other nearby maritime museums to save money and time.
🗣️ English Information Can Be Limited
While some exhibits have English explanations, much of the detailed information might be in Polish. Grab a leaflet for better understanding.
🚢 Great for Kids
Children often love exploring the ship, especially the engine room and different decks. It's an engaging experience for them.
📍 Prime Riverside Location
The ship's location on the Motława River is fantastic, making it easy to combine with visits to other Gdańsk attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the SS Sołdek as a fascinating piece of maritime history, offering a great glimpse into post-WWII shipbuilding and sailor life. The engine room and overall experience are frequently highlighted as positives, making it a worthwhile visit for families and history buffs alike. Some note that English explanations could be more extensive, but the ship's presence and location are undeniable draws.
"Sołdek in Gdańsk is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history. This historic ship, docked on the Motława River, was the first seagoing ship built in Poland after World War II, and today it serves as a floating museum. The ship offers a fascinating glimpse into Poland's shipbuilding heritage and the life of sailors during that time.
Walking through the decks and various rooms, you can explore the engine room, crew quarters, and even the captain's bridge. The exhibits are well-maintained, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making it an educational and enjoyable experience. The location, right by the Polish Maritime Museum, makes it easy to combine with a visit to other attractions."
Yarys
"Fantastic experience, well worth the admission ticket. Great for kids, the loved being on and in the Sołek. We bought a combined ticket for the 2 maritime museums and the ship but one of the museums is vast and kids got tired, they really enjoyed the ship though. A great piece of history in a fantastic location."
Fabrizio Oddo
"The actual ship is brilliant but the museum let's its self down slightly for me. A quarter is explained in English and then the rest you have to figure out where you are and read it from a leaflet and it just doesn't have the same effect! It is such a shame as some of the things the show in the museum are so interesting!"
Em D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The SS Sołdek is conveniently located on the Motława River in Gdańsk, easily accessible by foot from the Old Town. You can also use public transport; tram lines 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, and 10 stop nearby at the 'Długa Ogrodowa' or 'Brama Wyżynna' stops, followed by a short walk.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a designated paid parking lot in the city center and walk to the ship.
While not a primary mode of transport for most visitors, the ship is docked along the river, making it a scenic destination if you're exploring Gdańsk by water taxi or tour boat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are reasonable, with family tickets available. For example, a family ticket was around 45 PLN, offering good value for the experience.
It's advisable to check the official website for online booking options, which can help you skip queues, especially during busy tourist seasons.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official SS Sołdek or Polish Maritime Museum website for the most up-to-date information on operating times.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and families. Look into combined tickets with other museums for potential savings.
Due to its historic nature as a ship, accessibility can be limited. Some areas might have steep stairs or narrow passages. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the engine room, captain's bridge, crew quarters, and various cargo holds. The ship offers a comprehensive look at post-WWII maritime life and Polish shipbuilding history.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the ship thoroughly, taking in the exhibits and imagining life at sea.
Yes, children often find the SS Sołdek very engaging. They enjoy climbing around the ship, exploring the engine room, and learning about its history.
While self-guided tours are standard, check with the museum staff upon arrival if any informal explanations or guided insights are offered, especially for groups.
Take your time to explore each section, read the (sometimes limited) English explanations, and imagine the daily life of the crew. The engine room is a particular highlight.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The SS Sołdek itself does not typically have dining facilities. However, its prime location on the Motława River means there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries nearby in Gdańsk's waterfront area.
You'll find a wide variety of Polish cuisine, seafood, and international options in the restaurants surrounding the ship. From casual cafes to more formal dining, there's something for every taste and budget.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted on the SS Sołdek. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography in certain areas.
The engine room, the captain's bridge with its views, and the exterior of the ship against the Gdańsk skyline are excellent photo opportunities. Capture the details of the ship's structure and historical elements.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical sites. You would need to check local regulations and obtain necessary permits, which can be complex.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit other nearby maritime attractions, as this can offer better value. While some information might be in Polish, the visual exploration of the ship itself is highly intuitive and exciting for kids. It’s a hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational.
⚓ Maritime History Enthusiasts
Explore the engine room, the captain's bridge, and the crew quarters to gain a deep appreciation for the vessel's design and the lives of its crew. The ship's preservation allows for an immersive experience, making it a valuable site for understanding Poland's maritime heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of SS Sołdek
Today, the SS Sołdek is a floating museum docked on the Motława River in Gdańsk, adjacent to the Polish Maritime Museum. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life aboard a historic freighter. The ship has been meticulously preserved to showcase its original features, providing an authentic glimpse into the past. Its transformation into a museum ensures that its legacy and the stories of the sailors who served on it are remembered and shared with future generations.
Exploring the Ship's Interior
Beyond the engine room, you can wander through the crew quarters, gaining insight into the daily living conditions of sailors. The captain's bridge provides a commanding view of the river and surrounding city, allowing you to imagine navigating the seas. Other areas include cargo holds and various utility spaces, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the ship's function and history. While some exhibits might have limited English explanations, the visual experience and the sheer presence of the ship are compelling.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit