After 31 years in Lelystad, the Batavia has embarked on her final journey by water. On 19 september, the 56.6-metre reconstruction of the 1628 VOC ship was towed across the Markermeer and the IJ to Amsterdam, where she will be prepared for the next stage of her remarkable relocation.

The voyage marks the end of the Batavia’s life afloat. After her return to Lelystad on a pontoon, she will be transported ashore and placed on a new foundation beside Museum Batavialand. There, protected from the elements and with improved access for conservation work, the ship will begin a new chapter as a permanent part of the museum and a piece of maritime heritage for future generations.