View of Hamburg cityscape from the river showing historic buildings and masts of sailing ships

Rickmer Rickmers

Rickmer Rickmers Hamburg, Germany: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Rickmer Rickmers is a majestic testament to Hamburg’s maritime legacy, captivating visitors with its storied past and immersive museum experience. Moored at the historic Landungsbrücken piers, this fully restored 1896 cargo sailing ship now serves as one of Hamburg’s premier attractions, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast, history buff, or family traveler, the Rickmer Rickmers promises an unforgettable voyage through Hamburg’s seafaring history. For official details, see rickmer-rickmers.de, hamburg-travel.com, and hamburg.de.

Rickmer Rickmers tall ship docked at Hamburg Hafen harbor

Historical Overview
Visitor Information
Exploring the Museum Ship
Nearby Attractions
Practical Visiting Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action

Historical Overview

Origins and Construction

Commissioned by the Rickmers Reederei shipping company, the Rickmer Rickmers was built in 1896 at the renowned Rickmers shipyard in Bremerhaven (Nordcapital). This full-rigged, steel-hulled cargo ship measured approximately 97 meters in length, 12.2 meters in width, with a maximum draught of 6 meters, and a gross register tonnage of 2,007. Designed for long-haul global trade, it mainly transported rice, grain, and other goods between Europe, Asia, and South America (Yacht.de).

Early Voyages and Modifications

Launched in 1897, the Rickmer Rickmers quickly became a fixture on global trade routes. After losing its cross mast in a 1904 hurricane, it was re-rigged as a barque in Cape Town—a configuration it retains today (Yacht.de). Over the years, it also served as a training and prison ship, adapting to changes in maritime technology and politics (Awaymag).

Change of Ownership and 20th Century Roles

In 1912, the ship was sold and renamed “Max,” transporting coal and saltpetre until World War I. Confiscated by the Portuguese Navy in 1916, it was renamed “Sagres” and used as a naval training vessel until 1962 (HEP Hamburg). After decades of service under various names and flags, the vessel fell into disrepair.

Rediscovery and Restoration

Rescued by Hamburg maritime enthusiasts in 1978, the Rickmer Rickmers returned to Hamburg in 1983, where it was meticulously restored to its 1910 appearance. Operated by the Rickmer Rickmers Foundation and supported by community contributions, the ship today operates as a self-sustaining museum (Rickmer Rickmers Official).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours:
- April–October: Daily, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- November–March: Daily, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: €10–€12
- Reduced (students, seniors): €7–€8
- Children (6–14): €5
- Children under 6: Free
- Family and group rates available

Tickets: Purchase online via the official website or on-site. Booking ahead is recommended during peak seasons.

Guided Tours & Special Events

Daily guided tours (in German and by request in English) offer in-depth exploration of the ship’s history and maritime technology. Special events include maritime festivals, art exhibitions, and educational workshops for all ages (Rickmer Rickmers Events).

Accessibility

Due to the ship’s historic structure, accessibility is limited. Some decks and exhibits have ramps or handrails, but steep stairs and narrow passages may challenge those with mobility issues. Assistance is available on request.

Exploring the Rickmer Rickmers Museum

Main Deck: Panoramic harbor and city views, perfect for photos.
Below Deck: Restored crew quarters, officers’ cabins, cargo holds, and the original engine room.
Exhibitions:
- Permanent displays on ship construction, global trade, and seafaring life
- Rotating exhibitions in the unique “Galerie unter der Elbe” art space (rickmer-rickmers.de)
Interactive Experiences:
- “Hidden in Hamburg” escape room
- Rigging climb (up to 35 meters) for panoramic views
- Audio guides in multiple languages
Dining:
- Onboard restaurant serving Hanseatic and maritime-inspired cuisine (Rickmer Rickmers Restaurant)
Amenities:
- Restrooms, gift shop, free Wi-Fi (select areas), lockers (limited), and photography permitted (no flash in sensitive areas)

Nearby Attractions

The Rickmer Rickmers is ideally located for exploring other Hamburg highlights:

St. Michael’s Church (Michel): Iconic Baroque church, panoramic city views (st-michaelis.de)
Landungsbrücken & St. Pauli Piers: Vibrant harbor area with boat tours and eateries (hamburg-travel.com)
Cap San Diego: Historic cargo ship museum, 400 meters away
Elbphilharmonie: World-class concert hall, 15 minutes’ walk
Miniatur Wunderland: Largest model railway, 1.5 km away
International Maritime Museum: 2 km, extensive maritime history exhibits
Speicherstadt: UNESCO-listed warehouse district with museums and cafes
St. Pauli & Reeperbahn: Nightlife and entertainment hub

Most attractions are within walking distance or easily reached via public transport.

Practical Visiting Tips

Best Time: Weekday mornings or outside major events for fewer crowds.
Duration: Allow 1.5–2 hours; more with guided tours or dining.
Weather: Dress for Hamburg’s changeable weather; some areas are outdoors or unheated.
Accessibility: Some onboard areas are challenging for strollers and those with mobility issues.
Safety: Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult; smoking is prohibited; staff are first-aid trained (Official Visitor Information).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Rickmer Rickmers visiting hours?
A: Usually 10:00 AM–6:00 PM daily, with seasonal variations.

Q: How do I buy Rickmer Rickmers tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official website or on-site.

Q: Is the ship suitable for children?
A: Yes, with educational exhibits and family-friendly tours.

Q: Are combination tickets available with other attractions?
A: Yes, joint or discounted tickets are sometimes available, especially with the Hamburg City Card.

Q: Is Rickmer Rickmers wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited due to the historic structure, but assistance is available.

Q: Are guided tours offered in English?
A: Yes, by request.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Rickmer Rickmers offers a remarkable journey into Hamburg’s maritime heritage, blending authentic restoration, engaging exhibits, and breathtaking harbor views. Plan your visit today—explore Rickmer Rickmers visiting hours, secure your tickets, and discover nearby historical sites for a full Hamburg experience.

For the latest updates, ticket bookings, and exclusive content, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. For more information, visit rickmer-rickmers.de and hamburg-travel.com.