Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney
Explore Australia's maritime past! Climb aboard historic ships, dive into naval history, and discover tales of exploration and migration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Australia's maritime past! Climb aboard historic ships, dive into naval history, and discover tales of exploration and migration.
"A must-visit for families and history buffs, offering free entry and incredible ship experiences!"
Free General Admission! 🌊
Entry to the main museum is free for adults and kids. Special exhibits or ship access might have a fee.
Stroller Tours Available 👨👩👧👦
Parents with babies can enjoy special stroller tours, making it a great outing for families with little ones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Explore Historic Vessels
Onboard ships
Step aboard a submarine, a replica tall ship, and other fascinating vessels. Experience life at sea firsthand!
Naval History Exhibits
Museum galleries
Dive into Australia's rich naval past, from wartime stories to maritime exploration. Engaging displays for all ages.
HMB Endeavour Replica
Museum wharf
Walk the decks of a faithful replica of Captain Cook's HMB Endeavour. A journey back in time to the age of exploration.
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Special Exhibits Extra
Darling Harbour Location Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free General Admission! 🌊
Entry to the main museum is free for adults and kids. Special exhibits or ship access might have a fee.
Stroller Tours Available 👨👩👧👦
Parents with babies can enjoy special stroller tours, making it a great outing for families with little ones.
Darling Harbour Location 💎
Conveniently located in Darling Harbour, easily reachable by train. Combine with other nearby attractions.
Climb Aboard Ships 🚢
Don't miss the chance to explore the submarine and replica tall ship for an immersive experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free General Admission! 🌊
Entry to the main museum is free for adults and kids. Special exhibits or ship access might have a fee.
Stroller Tours Available 👨👩👧👦
Parents with babies can enjoy special stroller tours, making it a great outing for families with little ones.
Darling Harbour Location 💎
Conveniently located in Darling Harbour, easily reachable by train. Combine with other nearby attractions.
Climb Aboard Ships 🚢
Don't miss the chance to explore the submarine and replica tall ship for an immersive experience.
Check Special Exhibitions 📆
While general entry is free, some limited-edition exhibitions require tickets. Plan ahead!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Australian National Maritime Museum for its free general admission and the immersive experience of exploring historic vessels like the HMB Endeavour replica and a submarine. It's highly regarded as a family-friendly attraction with special programs for young children. Some visitors note that while general entry is free, ticketed exhibitions can add to the cost.
"The Australian National Maritime Museum is an impressive and visually stunning place, especially for anyone interested in the sea, exploration, and naval history. The exhibits feature a wealth of fascinating items—from ship models and maritime artifacts to incredible National Geographic award-winning photographs that bring the ocean’s beauty and mysteries to life.
One of the standout experiences is being able to board historic warships and explore their interiors. Walking through the decks and cabins really gives you a sense of what life at sea was like, making the visit immersive and memorable. The museum does a great job of combining education with hands-on experiences, which makes it suitable for both adults and families.
That said, the ticket prices are on the higher side. While the collection and interactive experiences are excellent, the cost feels a bit steep compared to other museums in Sydney.
Overall, though, it’s a fascinating destination for maritime enthusiasts and history lovers—just be prepared for the higher entry fee."
Min Min
"The Australian National Maritime Museum is a wonderful place to explore and learn. It offers a rich and interactive experience, especially if you're curious about Australia’s maritime history, naval heritage, and ocean exploration.
The exhibits are well-organized, informative, and suitable for all ages. From historic ships to submarines and modern maritime stories, there’s a lot to see and engage with. It’s not just about reading — there are hands-on displays and real vessels you can board, which makes it feel immersive and exciting.
I found it to be both educational and enjoyable — a great spot to visit whether you’re a local, a student, or a tourist. It’s a museum that makes learning feel fun and meaningful."
Sanjaya Sharma
"A very interesting and good value exhibition. I have been to many maritime museums in the world but the Australian Maritime Museum is so well organised and across a vast area along the quayside, it is very special. I visited the Nelson submarine and the larger frigate. Both fascinating and gives real perspective. The historic ships including the endeavour really add the historic touch and the best examples of historic ships available. I also visited the Art exhibition which again, well laid out making it less crowded and easy to manoeuvre. My photos are a bit poor as camera was wet."
Alastair Lowe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour. The nearest train stations are Gadigal and Town Hall, both a short walk away. Ferries also dock at Darling Harbour, offering a scenic approach.
Yes, there are several paid parking stations in Darling Harbour, including the Sydney Opera House Car Park and the Darling Quarter Car Park. However, public transport is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs.
Absolutely! The museum is well-served by public transport. Trains to Town Hall or Wynyard, followed by a walk, or ferries to Darling Harbour are excellent options.
Yes, ferries to Darling Harbour are a popular and scenic way to reach the museum. The wharf is just a short stroll away from the museum entrance.
For families, consider a combination of train and a walk, or a ferry ride for a more enjoyable journey. The museum's location in Darling Harbour makes it easy to access with strollers. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Australian National Maritime Museum is free for adults and children. However, access to certain special exhibitions or onboard experiences may require a separate ticket purchase.
While general entry is free, specific ticketed exhibitions or onboard access can vary. For example, a family pass might cost around AUD 89, with adult tickets around AUD 35 and children's tickets around AUD 25 for special access.
For general free entry, booking in advance is usually not required. However, if you plan to visit a special ticketed exhibition or a popular onboard experience, it's advisable to check the museum's website and book ahead to secure your spot.
The museum typically opens daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on public holidays.
While general admission is free, discounts might apply to specific ticketed exhibitions or onboard experiences. Check the museum's official website for any available concession rates or special offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic vessels like a submarine and a replica tall ship, delve into naval history, learn about migration stories, and discover maritime archaeology. There are also interactive exhibits for all ages.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! They offer stroller tours for babies and have engaging exhibits that appeal to children, making it a great place for a family day out.
Yes, you can! The museum allows visitors to board and explore vessels like the HMB Endeavour replica and a submarine, offering a unique hands-on experience.
The HMB Endeavour replica is a faithful recreation of Captain James Cook's famous ship, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like on board during the 18th century.
Absolutely! The ships, the harbour views, and the exhibits offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior of the museum, especially with the ships docked, is also very picturesque.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a cafe that offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. For a wider variety of dining experiences, Darling Harbour offers numerous restaurants and cafes nearby.
Generally, you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in designated picnic areas or outside the museum. However, it's best to check the museum's specific policy on outside food consumption.
The museum cafe typically serves a range of options including sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other refreshments, suitable for a quick bite during your visit.
Darling Harbour is packed with family-friendly restaurants offering diverse cuisines. You'll find everything from casual eateries to more formal dining options suitable for all ages.
Dining prices in Darling Harbour can vary. While some restaurants are on the pricier side, there are also more affordable cafes and casual eateries available. Packing a picnic can be a budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The decks of the historic ships, the HMB Endeavour replica, and the Sydney Harbour backdrop offer stunning photo opportunities. The museum's exterior with the docked vessels is also very photogenic.
Yes, photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the museum and on the vessels. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for signage.
While personal photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or videography may require special permission. Flash photography might be prohibited in some galleries.
A versatile camera that handles both indoor and outdoor lighting well is ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also excellent for capturing the atmosphere.
Yes, from certain vantage points around the museum and Darling Harbour, you can capture great shots of the Sydney skyline, especially during sunset or at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Children will love the opportunity to climb aboard historic vessels like the HMB Endeavour replica and a submarine. The interactive exhibits are designed to be engaging, bringing maritime history to life in a fun and educational way. Consider checking for any special family events or activities happening during your visit, especially during school holidays.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some special exhibitions or onboard experiences may have a fee, you can still have a very rewarding visit by focusing on the free areas. Combine your visit with a picnic lunch in Darling Harbour to save on food costs. The museum's location also makes it easy to access via public transport, further reducing your expenses.
🚢 History Enthusiasts
Beyond the iconic ships, the museum delves into broader themes like migration and archaeology, offering a comprehensive understanding of how the sea has shaped Australia. Look out for any temporary exhibitions that might focus on specific historical periods or events, as these often provide unique insights.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Vessels
Beyond the Endeavour, the museum also features a submarine that you can enter, providing a unique glimpse into underwater naval operations. Other vessels may be on display, each with its own story to tell about Australia's maritime past, from naval warfare to commercial shipping. These hands-on experiences are a highlight for many visitors, offering a vivid contrast to static museum exhibits.
Pro Tip: Check the museum's schedule for any special tours or demonstrations related to the vessels. Sometimes, guides offer insights into the daily life of sailors or the technical aspects of these historic ships, enriching the experience significantly.
Family Adventures at the Museum
Beyond the stroller tours, the interactive nature of the exhibits, particularly the ability to climb aboard ships and explore them, captivates children. The museum often hosts family-friendly events and activities, especially during school holidays, making it a dynamic place to visit. The naval history exhibits can be adapted to be engaging for older children, sparking curiosity about Australia's past.
Key Takeaway: The museum excels at making maritime history accessible and fun for all ages. The combination of free entry, hands-on ship exploration, and dedicated family programs makes it a top choice for a Sydney day out with kids.
Understanding Ticketed Experiences
These ticketed elements are designed to enhance the visitor experience and fund specialized conservation or display efforts. Prices can vary, with options like family passes available to make them more economical for groups. It's highly recommended to check the museum's official website before your visit to see what special exhibitions are running and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or school holidays, to avoid disappointment.
Recommendation: Prioritize which ticketed experiences align with your interests. If you're a history buff, a special exhibition on naval battles might be perfect. For families, an interactive display could be the highlight. Planning this in advance ensures you make the most of your visit and budget.
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