Many of us are familiar with the fantastical story of Noah and how he led animals two-by-two onto the ark he built to save them from the flood of the century. Now we have a real life Noah’s Ark, in the likes of Netherland born Johan Huibers. It was Johan’s dream to construct a replica of the original ark described in the bible. Weighing in at 2,500 tons, Johan’s ark is 95 feet wide and 410 feet long and looks like something out of a fairytale.
It took Johan four years to build the ark and cost $1.6 million. Now open to the public, visitors can tour all five levels. Those interested can stop by the media room, complete with seating, to watch a presentation of the skill and determination used in making such a fantastic boat. Marvel at the massive size of the ark, with some of the levels as tall as 75 feet high. Since it has been opened, countless visitors have flocked to get a glimpse of this amazing attraction.
It is easy to see the pride that Johan took in this project. Pairs of wood animals are painstakingly carved and displayed all around the boat. Life-sized creatures, such as gorillas, elephants and alligators, which would have been present on Noah’s Ark, can be found on every level. Johan even added a touch of modern day. When all of that exploring leaves you feeling hungry, do not forget to stop by the ark’s restaurant before leaving.
Johan, along with the Ark of Noah Foundation are so pleased with the ark, their next dream is to sail the massive boat from the Netherlands to the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil. At an estimated cost of $2 million, they have very little time to see that dream become a reality, only having raised several thousand dollars so far.
If they do indeed make it to Brazil, another goal they would love to see come into fruition is the establishment of the “Ark of Hope Centers” all over the world. These centers would focus on giving educational, social and practical support to those in need within the area. The Ark of Noah Foundation explains that these centers will teach locals about safe water practices and useful habits that would help sustain their environment and society. They will also counsel people with substance abuse problems and provide training to improve work related skills. The foundation’s hope is that the Brazil Summer Olympics can be the first location to benefit from the program.
Johan Huibers has already created a masterpiece of monumental proportions, bringing to life the fantastical boat. Although it dobtful the ark will ever leaves the Netherlands, it has already become a fantastic wonderment to hundreds of thousands of people. Johan’s Ark will most certainly be remembered as quite a magnificent creation.