The Sea Museum of Capoliveri is a hidden gem in the heart of Elba Island, where maritime history meets the charm of an ancient village. This museum is the beating heart of Capoliveri, a village perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Capoliveri is perfect to visit in any season: lively and colorful in summer, peaceful and atmospheric during the rest of the year. Strolling through the historic center, among narrow alleys and lively little squares, you’ll discover artisan shops, cozy cafés, and beautiful architecture such as the Church of San Michele. Don’t forget to explore the nearby beaches, such as Lido di Capoliveri and Lacona, with their crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
Let’s discover together what to see in Capoliveri, including a stop at the Sea Museum to complete a deep cultural experience, enriched by the beauty and history that only Elba can offer.
Where the Sea Museum is located on Elba
The Sea Museum is located in the heart of Capoliveri, a picturesque village on Elba Island. Situated at Via Palestro 1, the museum is easily accessible for both local visitors and those coming from other parts of the island or directly from the mainland.
Inaugurated in April 2014, the Sea Museum of Capoliveri hosts important exhibitions, including the well-known display “The Wreck of the Polluce – Shipwreck in Capoliveri”. This exhibition is the result of a collaboration between the Superintendency for Archaeological Heritage of Tuscany and the Municipality of Capoliveri, and tells the story of one of the most fascinating shipwrecks in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
How to get to the Sea Museum in Capoliveri
The Capoliveri Sea Museum is easily reachable both for those arriving on Elba Island by ferry and for those already on the island.
If you arrive on Elba Island through the port of Portoferraio, here’s how you can reach the Sea Museum in Capoliveri:
By car: After disembarking at the port of Portoferraio, follow the signs for Capoliveri. The drive takes about 30 minutes and leads you through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes.
By bus: There are bus services connecting Portoferraio to Capoliveri. Check local bus schedules to plan your transfer effectively.
To reach Elba Island from the mainland, you can take advantage of Blu Navy services, which offers up to 16 trips per day between Piombino and Portoferraio all year round. The ferry crossing takes about 1 hour. To best plan your trip, check the ferry schedules to Elba Island.
Blu Navy ferries are equipped with numerous services to ensure a comfortable and pleasant journey.
On board, you’ll find TVs, large open spaces for relaxing, a children’s play area, and a bar always stocked with snacks and sandwiches. In addition, if your vehicle is parked on the upper deck, you can choose to remain inside it during the crossing.
Ticket prices
The Elba Island Sea Museum offers various visit options to welcome both maritime history enthusiasts and occasional visitors:
With guided tour: €5.00 per person, an ideal option for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the collections.
Self-guided visit: €3.00 per person, perfect for those who prefer to explore the museum independently.
Contacts and how to book a visit to the Sea Museum
To book a visit to the Sea Museum or to request further information, you can contact the museum at the following details:
Phone: +39 393 8720018
Email: minieracalamita@gmail.com
We recommend booking your guided visit in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season or special events organized by the museum.
What to see inside the Sea Museum
Built in France in 1839 and later purchased by the De Luchi – Rubattino company, the Polluce began operating in 1841, connecting important ports such as Marseille, Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples. Its shipwreck, which occurred on June 17 of the same year after being rammed by the Neapolitan ship Mongibello, is shrouded in mystery and conspiracy theories, likely tied to political intrigues of the time.
The Sea Museum of Capoliveri is a true treasure trove of maritime and historical artifacts, where visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating story of the Steamship Polluce, a vessel that tells much about 19th-century navigation and historical events.
Inside the museum, you can admire numerous objects recovered from the wreck of the Polluce, which sank in 1841. These include tableware, cabin furnishings, and other onboard items used daily by passengers.
The true centerpiece of the exhibition is the cargo of gold and silver coins found onboard, along with priceless jewels and small porcelain statues that once belonged to the passengers. These precious items not only offer a glimpse into life aboard but also into the wealth and style of the era.
After visiting the museum, it is recommended to take some time for the Church of San Niccolò in Capoliveri, another significant historical monument in the village. The church is a splendid example of religious architecture and helps complete the cultural experience in Capoliveri, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the historical and artistic richness of this charming destination.