How do I visit the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island, Delaware?

Updated

The DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum is at 708 Coastal Highway in Fenwick Island, Delaware, and admission is free (donations appreciated). Before you go, call (302) 539-9366 to confirm hours, because the museum states its hours are subject to change. It is closed Wednesdays, and it closes for renovations from December through March.

Location and contact

Detail Information
Address 708 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island, Delaware
Phone (302) 539-9366
Email [email protected]
Admission Free; donations appreciated

The museum notes it is located close to all major beach attractions, so it can fit into a beach-day itinerary.

Hours by season

Hours vary by month, so match your visit to the correct period:

  • May: Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • June – August: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., closed Wednesdays
  • September: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday
  • October – November: Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • December – March: Closed for renovations

The museum also states it is closed on Wednesdays. Because hours are subject to change, call ahead for availability rather than relying on the schedule alone.

What you will see

The museum opened in July 1995 and focuses on recovering and preserving maritime heritage. Its collection of shipwreck and recovered artifacts is described as one of the largest in the Mid-Atlantic, with artifacts from both the region and worldwide. About 10,000 artifacts are housed at the current location at any time, while roughly 80% of the collection rotates through museum exhibits around the world. The exhibits change as new artifacts are recovered.

The museum does not receive state or federal grants and is funded only by owner contributions and public donations, which is why donations are appreciated even though admission is free.

Group visits and programs

Motor-coach and group tours are available year round. The museum also offers lectures and programs, which it describes as a hands-on experience. If you are arranging a group visit, contact the museum directly using the phone number or email above to confirm availability, especially during the December–March renovation closure.

Practical tips

  • Call (302) 539-9366 before traveling, since hours can change.
  • Avoid Wednesdays year round, and avoid Tuesdays in September.
  • Plan around the December–March renovation closure if your trip falls in winter.
  • Bring a donation if you want to support the museum, since it relies on public donations.