Australian National Maritime Museum Tickets

Must Do Experiences

• Tour the HMAS Onslow, a real Cold War-era submarine, and experience the cramped conditions faced by naval crews.

• Explore the six major permanent galleries, including the captivating Eora-First People gallery detailing Indigenous watercraft and coastal connections.

• Climb aboard the HMAS Vampire, a massive Daring-class destroyer, and navigate its narrow passageways and engine rooms.

• Try the interactive Action Stations exhibit to test your naval skills in thrilling, hands-on simulations.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the museum's extensive collection of Indigenous bark canoes and dugouts, which are often overlooked by visitors rushing to the naval ships.

• Visit the museum's specialized library and archives on the lower level if you have a specific genealogical or historical maritime query.

• Check the daily schedule for the rigging climbs on the tall ships, a thrilling activity that isn't always advertised on the main entrance boards.

What Makes it Special

• It is the only national museum in Australia located outside of Canberra, offering a unique coastal perspective on the nation's history.

• The fleet of historic vessels docked right outside the museum allows you to physically step inside history rather than just looking at models.

• The seamless blend of Indigenous maritime heritage, colonial exploration, and modern naval defense provides a comprehensive story of Australia's relationship with the ocean.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is on a weekday morning right when the museum opens to beat the school groups and enjoy the ships in relative peace. Sydney's weather is generally mild year-round, but visiting during the autumn months offers comfortable temperatures for exploring the outdoor vessel decks without the harsh summer sun.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the striking exterior of the HMAS Vampire from the Darling Harbour promenade during the golden hour just before sunset for dramatic lighting.

• Flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the submarine and certain delicate gallery areas to preserve the artefacts and respect other visitors.

• Use a wide-angle lens when shooting inside the ship's engine rooms and tight corridors to capture the sheer scale of the maritime engineering.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the Eora-First People gallery, take time to respectfully observe the cultural artefacts and read the stories of the Gadigal people, as this area holds deep spiritual significance. Australians are generally casual and friendly, so standard polite behavior and a relaxed dress code are perfectly acceptable, though swimwear is not permitted inside the museum.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The museum frequently hosts the Sydney Heritage Fleet's tall ships and international naval vessels during major maritime festivals throughout the summer.

• Look out for the annual Australian Sailing Hall of Fame induction events and special exhibitions celebrating iconic moments in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

• During school holidays, the museum runs special interactive kids' programs, including pirate-themed treasure hunts and hands-on knot-tying workshops.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Watch your step and mind your head when navigating the steep ladders and low-hanging bulkheads inside the historic naval vessels and submarine.

• Keep a close eye on young children at all times, especially on the outdoor wharves and near the water's edge where there are no high barriers.

• Visitors with claustrophobia or mobility issues should consult with staff before entering the HMAS Onslow submarine, as the interior is extremely confined and requires climbing through tight hatches.