The Odisha Maritime Museum is located in a building that was once the State Maritime Works Department during the British Raj. This building itself holds historical significance, representing the administrative center for maritime activities during that era. Recognizing the importance of preserving Odisha's maritime heritage, the state government converted the building into a museum. The museum was established to showcase the state's long and illustrious history of seafaring, trade, and cultural exchange with other maritime nations. Through its exhibits, the museum aims to educate visitors about the contributions of Odisha's sailors, shipbuilders, and traders to the region's economic and cultural development.