Nationaal Reddingmuseum Dorus Rijkers

Explore the history of Dutch maritime rescue at the National Rescue Museum Dorus Rijkers in Den Helder, featuring interactive exhibits and historic rescue boats.

Planning your visit

Dorus Rijkers was a Den Helder lifeboatman credited with saving over 500 lives between the 1870s and 1911, working open rowed and sailed lifeboats into North Sea storms — and the national rescue museum carries his name.

The collection covers Dutch sea rescue from the early nineteenth century: the boats themselves, from oared craft through motor lifeboats to modern rigid inflatables, the rocket lines used to reach stranded vessels, the equipment, and the accounts of individual rescues.

The KNRM, the Dutch rescue organisation, remains volunteer-crewed and privately funded, which the museum reflects.

Historic vessels are moored outside and visitors board them, and interactive exhibits let children experience simulated conditions.

Den Helder is a naval town at the top of North Holland, and the Texel ferry runs from it.

Bookable options are entry tickets. Current availability is shown below.