Queensland Maritime Museum sits beside the Brisbane River at the South Brisbane Dry Dock, at the southern end of South Bank. Its standout exhibit is HMAS Diamantina, a World War II frigate you can board and explore, including its engine room and crew spaces. Inside and outdoors, displays cover Queensland’s maritime and naval history through vessels, equipment, documents and other artefacts. Look for the steam tug Forceful and the pearling lugger Penguin as well as the warship.
Ships at the South Brisbane Dry Dock
Queensland Maritime Museum traces the state’s maritime history from the early navigators to the present day. It occupies buildings around the South Brisbane Dry Dock, where ships of many kinds were serviced during almost a century of use. During World War II, US submarines were among the vessels that used the dock.
The museum was established in 1971. Its collection includes documents, photographs and maritime artefacts, alongside full-sized vessels. Exhibits cover naval activity, vessel construction, lighthouse history, sailing and radio operations. Together, these displays connect working ships and equipment with the people and industries that relied on the Brisbane River and the sea.
Aboard HMAS Diamantina
Built in Maryborough and launched in 1944, HMAS Diamantina is a World War II River Class frigate displayed in dry dock. You can walk through parts of the ship and see how its interior was arranged, from the large engine room to crew quarters, galleys and showers. The vessel also has engineers’ and surgeons’ rooms.
The quarterdeck has a particular place in the ship’s history: Japanese garrisons on Nauru and Ocean Island signed surrender documents there in 1945. Exploring the frigate gives you a close look at a working naval vessel and the confined spaces where its crew lived and worked.
Other vessels and collections
HMAS Diamantina is one part of the museum’s collection. The steam tug Forceful and the Penguin, a World War II-era pearling lugger, are among the other vessels on display. The museum also has maritime equipment and lighthouse artefacts, as well as records and images related to seafaring and shipping.
Allow time to look beyond the largest ships. Indoor and outdoor displays cover different parts of maritime life, from navigation and engines to commercial shipping. Volunteer-led tours are available and can add context to the vessels and objects. Check for any special exhibitions or events when planning your visit.
FAQ
Where is Queensland Maritime Museum?
It is at 412 Stanley Street, South Brisbane, beside the Brisbane River and South Brisbane Dry Dock.
Can you go aboard HMAS Diamantina?
Yes. Visitors can board the World War II frigate and explore parts of the ship, including its engine room and crew spaces.
When is the museum open?
The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday and closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes, admission charges apply. The available information does not specify the price.
