D / S Hestmanden

About

D/S Hestmanden in Kristiansand is one of Norway’s most remarkable maritime memorials, a fully restored steamship that served through both World Wars. Built in 1911, the vessel originally transported goods along the coast, but its history took on far greater significance when it became part of the wartime merchant fleet, surviving dangerous convoy routes and earning a reputation for resilience. Today the ship is preserved as a floating museum, offering an evocative insight into the lives of sailors who braved the North Atlantic. Visitors can explore its engine room, cabins, and exhibitions that tell stories of hardship, courage, and the vital role of the merchant navy. Moored at Bredalsholmen, D/S Hestmanden stands as a powerful symbol of endurance and remembrance, honouring those who kept Norway connected during its most challenging years.

Kristiansand Norway

Location

D/S Hestmanden is located at Bredalsholmen Dokk og Fartøyvernsenter in Kristiansand, where the historic steamship serves as Norway’s national war sailor museum. The vessel is the last remaining ship from the Nortraship fleet and sailed during both World Wars, now fully restored as a unique cultural heritage site and memorial. Nearby, you step straight into the working environment of Bredalsholmen Shipyard and Preservation Centre, a national hub for traditional ship repair. Visitors can tour the 1876 dry dock, watch skilled craftsmen rivet steel and restore wooden boats, and explore the grounds filled with historic vessels. On board Hestmanden, authentic settings house exhibitions about the war sailors and their stories, screenings of the short film “The Nightmare,” and access to the heart of the ship—the original 1911 steam engine that still runs. The islet is a short drive or bus ride from central Kristiansand, making it easy to combine with the city’s highlights. Fiskebrygga fish market is close, with seafood restaurants along the canal and harbor views. Kilden Performing Arts Centre, the striking glass-and-wood concert hall, sits on the waterfront and hosts opera, symphony, and theatre. Odderøya peninsula is nearby with coastal trails, beaches, Kunstsilo art museum, and panoramic viewpoints.