This spectacular maritime heritage museum opened May 1, 2026 at the SM MOA Complex. It is connected to the mall so it is quite accessible. Tickets prices are a bit expensive but every cent is worth the interactive experience of being inside an actual massive galleon ship.
We went there on May 7, 2026 (Thursday) at around 5:55 PM so we had merely an hour to explore the museum. It highlights our rich maritime tradition from the indigenous tradition of boat making, the galleon trade up to our present day heroes, the Filipino seamen whose indefatigable contribution to the shipping industry is globally recognized.
The Balangay is made of hand carved planks
stitched or pegged together.
The Balangay are made of lugs carved on planks, lashed to the ribs
of the boat with fiber ropes.
A strong and flexible vessel totally devoid of any metal materials.
The discovery of nine plant boats in Butuan in 1976 dating between the 7th and 10 century, confirms the uninterrupted 1000 year old indigenous tradition of boat making.
Intricate small scale model of the building of a galleon
The huge galleon is located on the second floor of the exhibit. There are escalators as well as an elevator so it is very accessible. The entrance to the ship is through a slightly elevated ramp.
Thousands of native men were recruited to provide mandatory paid labor to work
on the building of the 'castles of the sea'. It is said that as many as 6,000 laborers
on the building of the 'castles of the sea'. It is said that as many as 6,000 laborers
were hired to cut and haul lumber needed for the masts of a SINGLE galleon.
It could carry supplies to last long voyages and still have space for valuable cargo.
From 16th century Europe spanning three centuries, it was the vessel for world exploration.
From 16th century Europe spanning three centuries, it was the vessel for world exploration.
Only the highest ranking offiers and important paying
guests were assigned private cabins. Other officers were accommodated on the
gun deck with sleeping quarters separated by canvas curtains.
guests were assigned private cabins. Other officers were accommodated on the
gun deck with sleeping quarters separated by canvas curtains.
The Captain's cabin had windows as well as a table used for dining
as well as for meetings for the officers.
The museum is open from Wednesdays to Sundays
10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Ticket prices: 675 pesos for adults
Discounted rates for students, teachers, seniors and PWDs.
10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Ticket prices: 675 pesos for adults
Discounted rates for students, teachers, seniors and PWDs.
Tickets can be purchased on site at the museum or online at their website.
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