At Darling Harbour, the Australian National Maritime Museum traces Australia’s connections with the sea through galleries, hands-on displays and historic vessels moored outside. Inside, exhibits range from Eora First People and early navigation to immigration, naval history and ocean science. A paid ticket gives access to some ships, including the HMAS Onslow submarine and HMAS Vampire destroyer; you can also view the vessels from the waterfront. Families have interactive activities and a play area for children under five. Allow at least two to three hours if you want to see the galleries and ships.
Galleries tell stories of people and the sea
The museum’s exhibitions connect Australia’s maritime past and present through objects, personal stories and interactive displays. Topics include Indigenous seafaring, European exploration, migration by sea, naval defence and contemporary ocean science.
The Eora First People exhibition focuses on Indigenous relationships with the ocean. Other displays follow early navigation and the journeys of people who came to Australia by sea. The stories extend beyond ships and warfare to include surf culture and the country’s wider relationship with the water.
There is more to the collection than large vessels. Galleries include maritime artefacts, model ships and nautical equipment. The museum also presents changing exhibitions, so the indoor displays can differ between visits.
A fleet moored outside
The vessels at the waterfront bring the museum’s maritime stories into scale. The fleet includes the HMAS Onslow submarine, the HMAS Vampire destroyer and the HMAS Advance patrol boat. The HMB Endeavour replica represents Captain James Cook’s ship, while the historic tall ship James Craig is another draw for visitors interested in sailing vessels.
Some ships can be explored aboard with a paid ticket. Access arrangements and closing times can differ from those of the galleries, so check the vessel schedule before planning your route. If you are not boarding, you can still see the boats from the harbour-side walk.
A visit aboard a submarine or warship is a more enclosed experience than a gallery visit. The minimum height for boarding is 90 cm, and prams and baby carriers cannot be taken onto the vessels.
Activities for children
The museum has interactive displays and a Mini Mariners play space for children under five. Some exhibitions have activity trails for children, and the Kids on Deck space runs creative activities during school terms and holidays. The programme and dates vary, so check the museum’s event information if a particular activity is part of your plan.
The ships can add a hands-on dimension for older children, though the boarding height and restrictions on prams and carriers matter for families with very young children. A mix of galleries, activities and the outdoor fleet gives families options if not everyone wants to spend the same amount of time on each part of the visit.
FAQ
Is admission to the Australian National Maritime Museum free?
General admission to the permanent indoor galleries is free. A paid ticket is required for some exhibitions and for boarding some of the vessels.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow at least two to three hours to cover most galleries and explore the ships.
Can children board the ships?
Children must be at least 90 cm tall to board. Prams and baby carriers are not allowed aboard.
What can children do at the museum?
The museum has interactive displays and a Mini Mariners play space for children under five. Kids on Deck activities run at set times during school terms and holidays.
