The Fishing Museum has an interesting collection of aquatic species. The biggest attraction is a 75 foot whale skeleton. Other exhibits include marine vessels and equipment. The Fishing Institute also has a critical mission. They study marine and freshwater in order to help preserve these natural resources and reduce the exploitation of fishing. Instituto de Pesca is housed in a building once operated by the School of Apprentices-Mariners. Prior to that, this was the site of Fort Augustus. Forte Augusto protected the Bay of Santos from the early 18th until the late 19th century. Related sites to see in the Ponta da Praia neighborhood are the Sea Museum, Aquarium and Fish Market.
