Frigate Jylland – a Living Museum Ship from the 19th Century
The frigate Jylland is a historic naval vessel from 1860 – built for war, used as a royal yacht, and preserved as a museum. Today, it lies moored in Ebeltoft, where visitors can explore the ship’s many decks and experience life at sea, traditional craftsmanship, and maritime technology from a defining period in Danish history – the Schleswig Wars.
Experiences for Children and Adults Alike
Step aboard and let Europe's turbulent 19th century wash over you as our passionate guides share gripping stories of naval battles and long voyages to distant shores.
Children can join cabin boy Karl on a quest to find his missing pocketknife, hidden somewhere on board. Along the way, they’ll meet crew members like Topman Niels, Princess Thyra, Gunner Bjørnson, and Surgeon Melchior – each with a colourful story to tell. And who knows – maybe one of them is hiding a secret … or is a sneaky thief?
Frigate Jylland also hosts engaging special exhibitions that shed light on maritime history and life at sea – for curious minds of all ages.
Sailing on Ebeltoft Bay
During summer, you can set out on Ebeltoft Bay in the museum’s open rowing boat – a traditional sailing craft with room for 12. From here, you’ll enjoy a unique view of the frigate and the harbour.
Living Craftsmanship
The shipwrights keep the frigate shipshape using traditional maritime crafts like timber work, rope-making, and tar sealing. Visitors can watch the work up close and learn how a historic warship is kept seaworthy – even while docked.
Shop and Restaurant
Stop by the museum shop for maritime gifts and classic souvenirs. And when it’s time for a break, enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink at Brasserie 1864.
Facts About the Frigate
The frigate Jylland is 102 metres long and 14 metres wide at deck level. Its masts rise more than 50 metres into the air, and the hull extends nearly 6 metres below the waterline. Today, the ship rests on land in a dry dock, allowing visitors to walk all the way around it and truly experience its impressive scale—both inside and out.