Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) – Setting a New Standard for Museum Accessibility in Estonia

In May 2024, the Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam) in Tallinn, part of the Estonian Maritime Museum, reopened after a major renovation that placed accessibility at the heart of its new exhibition design.

The renewed permanent exhibition includes tactile models and replicas to allow visitors with visual impairments to experience key exhibits through touch. Audio descriptions guided tactile tours, and a navigation system with tactile maps and guidance paths further support independent exploration.

For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, the museum introduced permanent induction loops in exhibition areas and offers Estonian Sign Language video guides.

Physical accessibility was improved with step-free access throughout the site, including entrances, exhibition areas, restrooms, and café spaces. Exhibition texts were simplified in key sections to be accessible for visitors with intellectual disabilities, and new family-friendly spaces cater to the needs of visitors of different ages and abilities.

The renovation took into account feedback from disabled people’s organizations, and the improvements have made the museum a leader in accessible cultural heritage in Estonia.

The museum’s efforts ensure that maritime history is available and enjoyable to a wide range of visitors, setting a strong example for other cultural institutions.

More about Seaplane Harbour (Lennusadam).

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