Donate

The Museum is moving our offsite collection to an improved collection storage facility, to better care for the collection in the long term. In addition, we are embarking on a period of gallery renewal for some of our semi-permanent galleries.

Until January 2026, the Acquisitions committee will cease the appraisal of new donations for the permanent collection, to focus on these projects. This will allow the team to focus on the collection move to ensure that donated treasures are well cared for. We regret the delay as donations are essential to complete gaps in the collection, and to preserve maritime heritage. 

We do not have space or resources to display all the items in our collection, and some are too fragile for long-term display. However, we strive to make our collection as accessible as possible, for example via our new Online Collection database, or by research request.

We are not currently able to meet any requests to view objects not on display, as the Collections Team is re-housing our offsite collection after moving to an improved collection storage facility, to better care for the collection in the long term. We apologise for any inconvenience. 

The museum does not do appraisals or valuations. If you have something you would like valued please contact an auction house or valuer.

The museum prefers not to accept items on long-term loan. However, we do sometimes borrow items on short-term loan for exhibitions. If you’re not sure, please get in touch to discuss further.