The Vuurschip (fire ship) in Hellevoetsluis harbour is a restored lightship — a vessel that served as a floating lighthouse anchored at sea to mark hazardous shipping lanes. This particular ship marked the Haaks shoal off the North Holland coast and is now permanently moored in the harbour as a museum. Visitors can go below decks to see the cramped living conditions of the crew and the workings of the light mechanism that kept ships off the sandbanks.
The ship is a good complement to the dry dock visit — together they paint a picture of how the Dutch managed one of the busiest and most dangerous coastlines in Europe. The harbour setting, with the old fortifications visible across the water, adds to the atmosphere. Opening hours are limited; check locally before making a special trip.