Moving worlds

As an island nation, Britain has a long and close relationship with the sea. Maritime collections held in museums, archives and libraries across the country illustrate this relationship and give us insights into the many experiences and achievements of people, past and present.

Lifeboat drill aboard the 'Kungsholm', about 1967. Repro ID P88237b, © NMM London

We can see into the lives of fishermen off our coasts and the men and women of the Royal Navy who defend peace and security around the world. We can also glimpse the luxuries experienced by tourists on cruise liners and the hardships endured by British explorers travelling through hostile environments.

'Life at Sea' looked at the various experiences of those living, working and relaxing at sea. It showed the importance of the sea to communities across Britain and served as a reminder of the significance of our maritime heritage.

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'Life at Sea' was a joint Maritime Curators Group and UK Maritime Collections Strategy (UKMCS) exhibition that toured around Great Britain. It was devised by Aberdeen Maritime Museum and developed by a group of 13 other British museums, all of which lent a selection of objects that reflect the nature and scope of their seafaring collections.

Find out more on the UKMCS website.