WA Maritime Museum
Discover maritime history, explore a real submarine, and uncover shipwreck tales at this engaging, free-entry museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry & extended hours
WA Maritime Museum
Best Time
Free entry & extended hours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover maritime history, explore a real submarine, and uncover shipwreck tales at this engaging, free-entry museum.
"A fascinating and peaceful place to visit, offering a unique look into naval and war history."
Book Submarine Tours Early
School holiday submarine tours book out fast! Search 'HMAS Ovens Tour' directly to find the booking link. :ticket:
Free Summer Entry
Enjoy free admission to the museum during summer until March 31st. Great value for a full day out! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

HMAS Ovens Submarine Tour
Submarine docked at the museum
Step inside a real submarine and hear tales of naval history from ex-submariners. A truly immersive experience!

Empress Josephine's Garden Exhibition
WA Maritime Museum
Explore the digital uncovering of Empress Josephine's connection to Australian botanics through storytelling and visuals.
Shipwreck Artifacts
WA Shipwreck Museum (part of WA Maritime Museum)
Discover treasures from legendary shipwrecks like the Batavia, including cannons and artifacts of survival and mutiny.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Submarine Tours in Advance
Free Entry & Summer Specials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Submarine Tours Early
School holiday submarine tours book out fast! Search 'HMAS Ovens Tour' directly to find the booking link. :ticket:
Free Summer Entry
Enjoy free admission to the museum during summer until March 31st. Great value for a full day out! :moneywithwings:
Interactive Exhibits
Engage with hands-on displays, including a digital aquarium and a captain's wheel boat. Fun for all ages! :child:
Cafe & Facilities
Convenient cafe and clean bathroom facilities are available on-site for a comfortable visit. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Submarine Tours Early
School holiday submarine tours book out fast! Search 'HMAS Ovens Tour' directly to find the booking link. :ticket:
Free Summer Entry
Enjoy free admission to the museum during summer until March 31st. Great value for a full day out! :moneywithwings:
Interactive Exhibits
Engage with hands-on displays, including a digital aquarium and a captain's wheel boat. Fun for all ages! :child:
Cafe & Facilities
Convenient cafe and clean bathroom facilities are available on-site for a comfortable visit. :coffee:
Explore Shipwreck History
Don't miss exhibits on famous shipwrecks like the Batavia. Learn about survival and maritime tales. :shipwreck:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the WA Maritime Museum for its immersive exhibits, particularly the HMAS Ovens submarine tour led by knowledgeable guides. The free entry, especially during summer, and the engaging displays make it a highly recommended, family-friendly destination. Some find the website for booking tours a bit difficult to navigate.
"This museum vertically turns it from a small building full of old boats into a 360 experience. Being able to see exhibits from above and below really makes this museum pop!
Handy elevators give full access to all abilities. Each exhibit is lovingly dressed, resulting is in a feast for your eyes. For the wee ones there is
A craft area on the ground floor, including a colour in digital aquarium. Plus a boat that you can enter and spin the captain wheel. An excellent cafe and bathroom facilities are also present"
Clare “Floxx”
"Great space and area to stay around for the day. The museum does a great job at utilizing architectural techniques that transforms the space into a flowing environment demonstrating and showcasing stunning and awe inspiring pieces perfectly staged within the building. Very fun for middle aged children with plenty of things to do"
Austin
"The Maritime Museum is a fascinating and peaceful place to visit. It’s free to enter and offers a unique look into naval and war history, with well-preserved exhibits and engaging displays. The location near the beach makes it an ideal stop for a relaxing yet educational outing. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area."
Angela Sun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The WA Maritime Museum is located in Fremantle, Western Australia. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include taking a train to Fremantle Station and then a short bus ride or walk to the museum. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from the main Fremantle tourist areas.
Yes, there are several parking options available near the WA Maritime Museum in Fremantle. Street parking and public car parks are generally accessible, though they can fill up quickly, especially during peak times and weekends.
Absolutely! Fremantle Station is a short and pleasant walk from the WA Maritime Museum, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the historic port city.
Yes, the museum is well-served by public transport. Buses frequently run to and from Fremantle Station, making it easy to access the museum from Perth and surrounding areas.
Taking the train from Perth to Fremantle Station is a popular and convenient option for a day trip. From there, you can easily walk or take a short bus ride to the WA Maritime Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, general admission to the WA Maritime Museum is free! This is a fantastic perk, especially during summer when free entry is extended until March 31st.
It is highly recommended to book tickets for the HMAS Ovens submarine tour in advance, especially during school holidays. The website can be a bit tricky to find the booking button, so searching directly for 'HMAS Ovens Tour' is advised.
The WA Maritime Museum generally has standard opening hours, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information, as these can vary for special events or public holidays.
While general admission is free, keep an eye out for special events like the museum's 20th-anniversary celebration which offered free entry and extended hours. Summer promotions also often provide free access.
While general museum entry is free, the HMAS Ovens submarine tour typically has a separate fee. It's advisable to check the official booking site for current pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the HMAS Ovens submarine tour, the 'Empress Josephine's Garden' exhibition, and the extensive collection of shipwreck artifacts, including pieces from the Batavia. The interactive displays are also a big hit.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly! It features interactive exhibits, a craft area with a digital aquarium, and a boat where kids can spin the captain's wheel.
Many visitors find themselves spending several hours here, with some even staying for nearly five hours, especially if they do the submarine tour and explore all the exhibits.
While general entry is self-guided, the HMAS Ovens submarine tour is led by knowledgeable ex-submariners who provide detailed insights.
This exhibition uses digital storytelling and visuals to uncover Empress Josephine's influence and connection to Australian botanics, offering a unique cultural and historical perspective.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has an excellent cafe on-site, offering a convenient place to grab a bite to eat or a coffee during your visit.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibition spaces. The on-site cafe is a good option for refreshments.
The WA Maritime Museum is located in Fremantle, which has a vibrant dining scene. You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs within walking distance, offering a wide range of cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the WA Maritime Museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or areas. Tripods and flash photography may be restricted.
The museum's unique architecture, the HMAS Ovens submarine, and the 'Empress Josephine's Garden' exhibition offer great photo opportunities. The waterfront location also provides scenic views.
Photography inside the submarine is usually allowed for personal use, but be mindful of the confined spaces and the guide's instructions. Capture the unique atmosphere of this historic vessel.
While not a dedicated photo exhibition, the 'Empress Josephine's Garden' exhibition features rich storytelling and breathtaking visuals that are highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for a good chunk of time, as many families report spending several hours exploring. The on-site cafe provides convenient refreshments, making it easy to manage a full day of discovery. It's a great way to introduce children to maritime history in a fun and engaging way.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the HMAS Ovens submarine tour has a fee, it's a worthwhile splurge for the unique experience. Otherwise, you can spend hours exploring the fascinating shipwreck artifacts and engaging exhibits without spending a dime. The museum's location in Fremantle also means you can enjoy the surrounding free attractions and affordable dining options in the area.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
For a truly memorable experience, consider the HMAS Ovens submarine tour for a shared adventure. Afterwards, enjoy a stroll along the nearby waterfront or explore Fremantle's vibrant dining scene for a perfect evening out. The museum's atmosphere is both educational and engaging, providing plenty of conversation starters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the HMAS Ovens Submarine
The experience offers a unique perspective on maritime history, moving beyond static displays to a truly immersive encounter. The guides' expertise transforms the tour into an engaging narrative of service and survival. Be prepared for tight spaces and stairs, as the submarine's original design prioritizes function over accessibility for all visitors.
Shipwrecks and Maritime Heritage
These exhibits provide a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to connect with the stories of those who navigated these waters centuries ago. The displays are thoughtfully curated, offering insights into the challenges faced by early mariners and the enduring legacy of maritime exploration in Western Australia. The museum effectively brings these historical narratives to life, making it a compelling visit for history buffs and casual explorers alike.
Special Exhibitions and Family Fun
The museum is also a fantastic destination for families. Interactive elements, such as a digital aquarium and a hands-on boat with a captain's wheel, ensure that younger visitors are entertained and educated. The free entry during summer months makes it an accessible and enjoyable outing for families looking for affordable activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit