The Visafslag stands as a testament to Spakenburg’s fishing history: it is a Rijksmonument and a rare, well-preserved example of a historic fish auction. Visitors can sit on the old benches, watch a demonstration and take part in the auction. Groups can visit by appointment between 9:00 and 17:00; they must have at least 12 and no more than 60 people. From May, the Visafslag is open to everyone on Wednesday afternoons from 14:00 to 17:00. A short film is shown, and a volunteer is on hand; admission is free. Check the visitor information before your trip.
Fishing Harbour, Shipyards and Museums
Museumhaven Spakenburg has served as a mooring place for the Botter boats of Zuiderzee fishermen since the 13th century. Spakenburg is also home to one third of the entire Botter fleet in the Netherlands. Botterwerf Spakenburg dates back to 1750 and is still in daily operation. Its slipway can accommodate four Botter boats at a time for maintenance. Another shipyard is Scheepswerf Nieuwboer: it has been at this location since 1675 and is still active every day, but is not open to the public.
The history of the Nieuwe Haven can also be placed in context: the harbour was built in 1886 and used as a fishing harbour until the 1960s. It was then converted, along with its associated jetties, into a marina. Museum Spakenburg is located at the old harbour opposite a centuries-old shipyard. Its exhibition covers more than 1,500 m² and includes fishermen’s houses, a farm, a shop, a school, a smokehouse and a changing exhibition.
Klederdracht- & Visserijmuseum focuses specifically on traditional dress and fishing. It is wheelchair accessible; knowledgeable staff are available for tours or explanations. In the summer months, more than 100 costume dolls are on display. They depict stages of life from infancy and marriage to various periods of mourning. As well as the history of the harbour and shipyards, you can gain insight into the local traditional dress.
Exploring on Foot and by Bicycle
The guided walk through the historic centre takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 14:30. It passes the old and new harbours, fishermen’s houses and the Visafslag; along the way, you’ll hear stories and anecdotes about Spakenburg. You can also do the walk independently, and it is suitable for all ages, including children. As the guided tour follows a set schedule, check the times before your trip.
For a cycling trip, the Rondje om Spakenburg route starts at the TOP point at Museum Spakenburg, beside the shipyard, and follows the Oostdijk along the former Zuiderzee; there are views of the Eemmeer along the way. The route continues through the polder landscape to old farms on the Eemdijk and to the Palendijk. Cycling routes from Spakenburg also start along the dike beside the Eemmeer. They offer views of the former Zuiderzee, old farms and the polder landscape, as well as the water and numerous bird species. Jachthaven Nieuwboer has bicycle rental, with bikes for family outings and a suitable cycling route. Check availability in advance.
Boat Trips and Events
Visitors can take a trip on an authentic fishing vessel through Spakenburg’s old harbour and out onto the Eemmeer; a guide accompanies them on board. Schedules may change seasonally, so check departure times in advance. Those who rent a sloop or sailing boat can explore the Randmeren, see old farms from the Eem and continue as far as Amersfoort.
The Spakenburgse Dagen were held for the 54th time in 2026. During that edition, the museum harbour was full of Botter boats, which visitors could take out onto the Eemmeer. Residents wore traditional dress, and the programme also included music, dance and activities for children. These time-specific experiences are different from an ordinary boat trip: here, the trips were combined with the festival programme and a bustling museum harbour.
More Local Experiences
Korenmolen de Hoop operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays when there is sufficient wind. Visitors can watch the millers at work and buy freshly milled flour. Check opening hours in advance. Het Handwerkhuis offers folk-art products and Spakenburg fabrics, as well as sewing and knitting supplies and yarn from various brands, including Katia, Lana Grossa, Phildar and Scheepjes. Check opening hours in advance.
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