Shipping and Trade

The location and shallow waters of the Danish Wadden Sea have, for centuries, made sailing and trade possible for the people who lived here. The Wadden Sea offered sheltered natural harbors behind the islands, and the depths between the islands ensured access to the mainland.

2023 Nationalpark Vadehavet Fannikerdage Fanø Foto Wasabi Film (49)

<h3>Natural centre for Scandinavian trade</h3>
Sailing and trade have always played an important role for the people of the Wadden Sea. The many natural harbours and the good location with access to the major trading areas of Western Europe made the Wadden Sea a natural centre for Scandinavian trade in ancient times. In later centuries, the inhabitants of the Wadden Sea made their living as sailors, hunters and fishermen. Today, there is not much fishing in the area, but the Port of Esbjerg has become a centre for offshore companies.

2023 Nationalpark Vadehavet Nationalmuseets Kommandørgård – Foto Alexander Köhler

The role of seafaring in the Wadden Sea region 

2023 Nationalpark Vadehavet Hjerting Strand Gitte Lindeborg 373

<h3>Discover more of the trading history</h3>
There are many great places to visit where you can learn more about the maritime and trading history of the area, from the Viking Age to the present day:
Tirpitz - Varde Museerne
Esbjerg Museum
Fisheries and Maritime Museum
Fanø Museum
Fanø Shipping and Costume Collection
Mandøhuset
Ribe Vikings Museum
Ribe Viking Centre
Nature Centre Tønnisgård
Cultural history Tønder
Højer Mill

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