Australian National Maritime Museum
A waterfront museum at Darling Harbour where the exhibits include a destroyer, a submarine and a replica of the Endeavour.
Updated 18 October 2026
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The National Maritime Museum sits on the western side of Darling Harbour under a wave-shaped roof, and much of it is moored rather than housed: the destroyer HMAS Vampire, the submarine HMAS Onslow, a patrol boat, a tall ship and a replica of James Cook's Endeavour, all of which can be boarded when they are in port. Inside, the galleries cover navigation, immigration by sea, surf and beach culture, naval history and the relationship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with the water. The Endeavour replica occasionally sails, so it is not always alongside. Free general entry covers the galleries, with a combined ticket for the vessels.
History
In June 1985 the federal government announced a national museum of Australia's maritime history, and after lobbying by the New South Wales premier, Neville Wran, it was placed at Darling Harbour as part of the area's redevelopment for the bicentenary of 1988. Philip Cox designed the building, with a roof shaped like billowing sails, but construction delays, cost overruns and arguments between the state and federal governments over funding put the opening back from 1988 to 1991 (Wikipedia, Australian National Maritime Museum).
Highlights
- The submarine and destroyer - HMAS Onslow and HMAS Vampire, boarded below decks.
- The Endeavour replica - Cook's ship rebuilt, when it is in port.
- The immigration galleries - the sea journeys that made modern Australia.
- The beach and surf displays - Australian coastal culture and lifesaving history.
When to go
Year-round; the vessels are the highlight and their availability varies, so check which are open on the day. School holidays are busy. Summer decks are hot, and the submarine interior is cramped and warm in any season.
Things to know
Going below decks in the submarine involves steep ladders and tight spaces, and is not for everyone. Vessel access needs a paid ticket on top of the free galleries. Ships are sometimes away or closed for maintenance without much notice.
Nearby
Darling Harbour's attractions are across the water; the Sydney Fish Market is a short walk west.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q844329, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Australian National Maritime Museum
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Quick-dry clothing - Board shorts or synthetics that shrug off spray and dry fast. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Secure water shoes or reef boots - Grip on slippery launches and protection on rocky shores. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
