New exhibits highlight Singapore’s maritime history and future innovations

The refreshed Singapore Maritime Gallery at Marina South Pier was officially opened today by Mr. Murali Pillai, Minister of State, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Transport. The revamped gallery features new exhibits that celebrate Singapore’s rich maritime heritage and highlight innovations shaping the industry’s future.

A key attraction in the refreshed gallery is the “Tides of Time” maritime heritage zone, which traces Singapore’s maritime history back to the 3rd century. Supported by the National Heritage Board (NHB), the zone showcases maritime archaeological artefacts and explores Singapore’s role in regional trade long before colonial times. Visitors can also learn about the 1603 Santa Catarina incident, which played a crucial role in shaping modern international maritime law.

Originally launched in 2012, the gallery now includes a “Future is Now” zone, illustrating Maritime Singapore’s transformation through interactive displays. Visitors can explore a global shipping map, a 20-foot shipping container filled with everyday goods transported by sea, and exhibits on Singapore’s coral conservation efforts. A scale model of Tuas Port and exhibits on maritime technology, such as drones, highlight Singapore’s advancements in the sector.

The gallery is also family-friendly, featuring a dedicated “PlayPort” children’s area with maritime-themed e-comics and videos developed in collaboration with the National Library Board (NLB). The space will host storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and educational programs for young visitors.

Managed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the refreshed gallery emphasizes how Maritime Singapore builds on its historical foundations while adapting to future challenges. The open-concept space is also designed to host corporate events, workshops, and thematic exhibitions. The Singapore Maritime Gallery is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, except Mondays, with free entry. More details can be found at www.go.gov.sg/sg-maritime-gallery.

The gallery’s reopening coincides with Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2025, a key SG60 event celebrating Singapore’s 60th year of independence. Taking place from March 24 to 28, 2025, SMW 2025 will feature industry conferences, a trade exhibition (EXPO@SMW), and the inaugural Talent@SMW, a career and education fair connecting students and mid-career professionals with opportunities in the maritime industry. Talent@SMW will include recruitment talks, curated tours, and presentations by educational institutions.

Public engagement activities will be held over two weekends, March 21–23 and March 28–30, 2025. Events include vessel showcases at Marina South Pier and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, maritime heritage talks, and storytelling sessions. A family carnival will also take place at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal from March 21–23, 2025.

The Singapore Maritime Discoveries tours, including the Maritime Heritage Trail and Maritime Evolution Trail, will be ticketed events, with some complimentary tours available for sign-up at www.smw.sg/smw-2025/maritime-discoveries-tours.

Source – MPA