The wooden sailing vessel Batavia was successfully relocated to its final destination in Lelystad on October 2. This full-scale replica of the 1628 Dutch East India Company ship, constructed in 1995, was prepared for its final journey at Damen Shiprepair Amsterdam. It was transported on a custom-built cradle via a pontoon, with two SPMT trains, each featuring 28 axles, moving the 646-ton ship and its cradle up a specially designed ramp and across the Markermeer dike to Museum Batavialand.
The transportation process involved significant collaboration among various technical partners and local authorities, including the Directorate-General for Public Works and the Municipality of Lelystad. The ramp was designed to minimize the approach angle and ensure even ground pressure, addressing the challenges posed by the dike, which is situated below sea level.
Now positioned over eight meters higher than its previous location, the Batavia is more visible to the public. This move aims to protect the ship for the long term, allowing the timber to dry properly and facilitating ongoing maintenance. The Batavia will be the centerpiece of the revamped Museum Batavialand, set to open in late 2028.
