The International Congress of Maritime Museums (ICMM) is indeed the world’s largest and sole international network dedicated specifically to maritime museums. Founded in 1972, it acts as a vital bridge connecting individuals and institutions passionate about preserving and sharing maritime history and heritage.

ICMM has 120+ members of every size across thirty-five countries and six continents. It convenes biennial congresses hosted by different member museums around the world, publishes a monthly newsletter, and offers resources on its website on subjects including maritime archaeology, historic vessels, and maritime curatorship.

In 1972, Johnston (Director of Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut) and Greenhill (Director of the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich) initiated informal discussions with other museum directors at an international conference. The idea for ICMM gains traction. In 1975, the inaugural ICMM Congress took place in Oslo, Norway, marking the official launch of the network.

The recent congress, held in September 2022, saw over 110 delegates from 30+ countries discussing diverse topics like climate change’s impact on maritime heritage and promoting accessibility in maritime museums.

According to the Internet