Housed in a Dutch warehouse from 1676, this museum displays artifacts from shipwrecks around Galle including Chinese porcelain, Dutch coins, and navigation equipment. The collection covers maritime trade history from Portuguese arrival through British colonial period. Interactive displays explain underwater archaeology methods used in Sri Lankan waters. It ranks among Galle's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost Rs 300 adults, Rs 150 children and 1-1.5 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
What It Is
This is not a look-but-do-not-touch museum. The exhibits are designed to be handled, and that makes the experience more immediate than reading information panels.
Why Visit
Discover treasures from shipwrecks that tell the story of Galle's role as a major Indian Ocean trading port. That puts it near the top of any Galle visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Dutch Reformed Church and Old Gate - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Galle. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
