"Surakhani" tanker-museum becomes a member of the International Congress of Maritime Museums

ASCO’s “Surakhani” tanker-museum has been accepted as a member of the International Congress of Maritime Museums (ICMM).

By joining ICMM, the ship-museum has earned the status of being not only Azerbaijan’s but also the entire Caucasus region’s first museum to be represented in this prestigious organization.

This membership allows the museum to participate in international projects, exchange experience, and be represented in thematic exhibitions. Moreover, through this platform, Azerbaijan’s ancient maritime history and heritage will be presented to a wider international audience.

Having operated for many years as a tanker in the Caspian Sea, the “Surakhani” was transformed into a museum in 2021 and now continues its activity as the world’s first and only functioning tanker-museum.

The museum offers both local residents and tourists the opportunity to closely explore the history of shipping in Azerbaijan, oil production in Absheron, and the heroic service of our brave seafarers.

The International Congress of Maritime Museums was established in 1972 and currently has nearly 150 members from over 40 countries. Every two years, the organization holds an international congress aimed at strengthening cooperation among member museums and promoting the preservation and presentation of maritime heritage through knowledge exchange. The next ICMM Congress will take place on 13–18 September 2026 in Sydney, Australia, at the Australian National Maritime Museum.