Make your own way to the Australian National Maritime Museum and decide which exhibits you'd like to see. Choose between an all access (Big Ticket) providing access to everything open at the museum on the day of your visit including Action Stations, Tall Ships, permanent galleries, all temporary special exhibitions and Kids on Deck or a special exhibitions only ticket with access to the major temporary exhibitions and all permanent galleries.
Permanent galleries tell the story of Australia’s close ties to the sea. Start in galleries that display artifacts from the original Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander inhabitants, then continue through displays about the arrival of European explorers, immigration to Australia, and topics including sailing, naval defense, and modern-day surf culture.
As many as three special limited season exhibitions will be on display at the time of your visit. One of the highlights is the chance to visit Action Stations where you can step inside the immersive cinema, discover the exploration space filled with maritime, archaeology, science and history before climbing aboard and join a guided tour of three historic vessels. The submarine HMAS Onslow was part of the Royal Australian Navy fleet up until 1999, when it was decommissioned and transferred to the museum. The Navy destroyer HMAS Vampire represents the last of Australia’s big gun ships. The restored tall ship James Craig came back to life after a 30-year restoration project; it is one of only four 19th-century barques in the world still capable of sailing today.
See the HMB Endeavour, a replica of the ship that Captain James Cook sailed during his epic world voyage that brought him to Australia in 1770. On board, see what a sailor’s life was like during this 18th century voyage, considered one of history's greatest maritime adventures.
Refuel with food and beverages available for purchase at the on-site cafe, which offers open-air seating that overlooks Darling Harbour. You can also bring a picnic lunch and eat on the museum’s terrace with waterside views.
Current Exhibitions
Arctic Voices - Summer's Coolest Family Exhibition - Until 30 April 2018
Arctic Voices is a fun journey into a world of discovery. Children can pounce, hop, push and crawl their way through the Arctic, and come face to face with giant polar bears.Explore with scientists as they catch and tag Arctic whales, and marvel at how plants survive and thrive in this harsh environment.Enjoy a fun and fascinating family journey through a winter wonderland this summer.
Gapu-Monuk Saltwater - Journey to Sea Country - Until February 2019
Journey to Sea Country tells the powerful story of the Yol
Ku people of North-East Arnhem Land, their fight for recognition of Indigenous sea rights and the Blue Mud Bay legal case. Discover how historic bark paintings were used to win Indigenous sea rights.