Batavia Longboat Model

Take a close look at this detailed scale model of the Batavia’s longboat. On the real ship, this hardworking vessel was used to load and unload cargo, supplies, and people when no dock was available. It also had a clever trick kedging, where the longboat carried the ship’s anchor out ahead, dropped it, and then the crew winched the Batavia forward. Repeating this slowly pulled the ship into deeper water.

But on 4 June 1629, its role changed dramatically. When the Batavia ran aground on Morning Reef in the Abrolhos Islands, the longboat became a lifeline. It ferried people and supplies to the nearest islands and searched for precious drinking water.

Just four days later, Commander Francisco Pelsaert and 45 others climbed aboard and set off, not just to the mainland, but all the way to Batavia (Jakarta) to get help. They sailed over 3,000 kilometres in this small, open boat.

Once you’ve seen the model, step outside the museum and you’ll find a life-size replica of the longboat floating on the harbour. Imagine rowing or sailing it through open ocean, your only hope of rescue.