The MS Polstjerna, Norway’s best-preserved sealing vessel is one of the relics left behind from the country’s controversial tradition of seal hunting. First launched in 1949, the ship has brought in a staggering 97, 000 seals and has also been used for arctic exploration. After 33 hunting seasons, it finally docked permanently in 1981, and was placed in a protective glass house in 2003.

Visitors today can enter the ship, which provides an accurate and authentic account of a seal hunter’s life during the chaotic hunting season. Its interior fixings, both above and below deck, are all original and impressively maintained. The ship still boasts its original sailing rig, smaller hunting boats and tools and equipment as well, giving its visitors an enriching journey into Norway’s colourful past on seal hunting and polar expeditions.