Seamen’s Monument

A tribute to the sea heroes of Terschelling, offering a beautiful view over the Groene Strand and the Wadden Sea.

What can you expect at the Seamen’s Monument?

• Monument of Remembrance: The bronze statue depicts a sailor’s wife gazing out to sea, waiting for the return of her husband or son. It symbolises the deep connection between Terschelling and the sea, and the sorrow for those who never returned.
• Centuries of Maritime History: Since the Middle Ages, the people of Terschelling have been active in trade, exploration, and later in whaling, merchant shipping, and salvage. Sadly, many found a sailor’s grave in the fierce power of the sea.
• View over the Wadden Sea and Groene Strand: From the monument, you have a wide view across the Groene Strand, the harbour, and the Wadden Sea. In the evening, you can even see the lights of four lighthouses:
  • Brandaris on Terschelling
  • Vuurduin on Vlieland
  • Eierland on Texel
  • Den Helder
• Living Maritime Tradition: Even today, Terschelling’s people remain active at sea, in ship salvaging and rescue operations. In ‘de kom’, the eastern part of the harbour, you can see their vessels moored.

Practical Information

• Location: At the end of the Willem Barentszkade in West-Terschelling.
• Tip: Visit at sunset (around 21:30 in summer) for a magical view over the sea and the distant lighthouses.

The Seamen’s Monument is not only a place of remembrance but also one of the most beautiful viewpoints in West-Terschelling.

Furthermore Seamen’s Monument is near the following sights: Museum 't Behouden Huys (±250 m), Seinpaalduin (±300 m), Seal Tour with Talisman (±500 m), Lighthouse Brandaris Terschelling (±500 m) & Kaapsduin West (±550 m).

For information

Willem Barentszkade, West-Terschelling