The Steamboat Era exhibit is represented by a replica of a vintage watercraft.

A Water World, A Water Culture

Located on the banks of the scenic Tchefuncte River in Madisonville, the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum takes you on a historic journey through maritime Louisiana.

From canoes to pirogues, from bateaux to steamboats, Louisiana’s unique maritime history and culture has it all. Native Americans, European explorers, and early settlers depended upon Louisiana’s extensive bayous, rivers, and lakes as the pathways of survival, linking the hinterland with the sea. These waterways represented the connections among people, the connections of life.

The museum brings Louisiana’s maritime history to life through unique interpretive programs, exhibits, and publications. These programs include the time honored craft of boatbuilding, hands-on field trips, constructing underwater robots, lighthouse overnights, and other exciting educational opportunities for people of all ages.

Start your voyage of discovery here.