The Plan

Olde Beaufort Seaport is envisioned as a living museum — reminiscent of a turn-of-the-century maritime village — that will allow the N.C. Maritime Museum to significantly expand its educational programs and provide a unique interactive experience for maritime enthusiasts. 

Olde Beaufort Seaport will be developed as a major adjunct to the present museum. Future plans envision the largest and finest historic seaport on the East Coast, drawing visitors from around the world. Olde Beaufort will celebrate North Carolina’s colorful maritime heritage and down east coastal traditions.

Unlike the downtown site with a central museum and walk-in traffic, the new site will be a multiple facility complex located in a park-like environment. An admission fee will be charged and ample space will be provided for parking near the Welcome Center/Admissions Area.

The landscape and facilities envisioned for Olde Beaufort Seaport will represent the highest order of responsible land-use and environmental sensitivity. Along with the museum’s present buildings downtown, it will stand as a benchmark for restrained and tasteful development.

The major architectural firm of Calloway, Johnson, Moore, and West has volunteered their services to develop a preliminary master plan for the site.