Pilotage - Museum
The Loodswezen (Pilotage) Jan Duffel museum, housed in a former church, reveals a fascinating piece of the maritime history of Texel.
- Texel pilots: Discover how generations of islanders guided large seagoing vessels safely past sandbanks, shallow waters and strong currents around Texel.
- Roadstead of Texel: Learn why Texel was so important for shipping to Amsterdam for centuries, and how VOC ships also waited here for favourable winds.
- Historic pilot instruments: See old navigation and communication equipment, tools and the hand lead that pilots once used to measure the depth of the water and find their way.
- Special pilot ladder: One striking exhibit is the pilot ladder, used by pilots to climb from a small boat up the high side of a ship and board the vessel.
- Photographs of ships in rough weather: Maritime photographs by Flying Focus show the conditions in which pilots sometimes have to carry out their work.
- Who is Jan Duffel?: Jan Duffel never actually existed, but symbolises the many generations of Texel pilots from the 15th century onwards.
Practical information
The museum is centrally located in Oosterend and is easy to include in a walk through the historic village.
- Historic location: The museum is housed in the Strender Vermaning, a former church in the heart of the old village centre.
- Compact and interesting: A visit does not take long, but gives a clear impression of the dangerous and responsible work carried out by pilots in the past.
- Extra tip: Combine the museum with the harbour of Oudeschild, where the historic pilot boat Texelstroom can be seen.
- Opening hours: For current opening hours and activities, visit the website of the Loodswezen Jan Duffel museum.
Furthermore Pilotage is near the following sights: St Martin’s Church (±150 m), Minkewaal (±1,5 km), Wagejot (±1,5 km), IJzeren Kaap (±1,6 km) & Viewpoint De Bol (±1,8 km).
For information
Peperstraat 26, Oosterend, Texel
web. Website
Display Pilotage