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Australian National Maritime Museum Tickets

4.5(1.8K Ratings)
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Tourists exploring exhibits at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum exterior with docked historic ships, Sydney.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship display in Sydney harbor.
Visitors exploring the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney with historic ships docked nearby.
Tourists exploring exhibits at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum exterior with docked historic ships, Sydney.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship display in Sydney harbor.
Visitors exploring the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney with historic ships docked nearby.
Tourists exploring exhibits at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship exhibit in Sydney harbor.
Australian National Maritime Museum exterior with docked historic ships, Sydney.
Australian National Maritime Museum ship display in Sydney harbor.
Visitors exploring the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney with historic ships docked nearby.
4.5(1.8K)

Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney Tickets

from
AU$25
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Unearth rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, Australia.
  • Browse galleries and exhibits on Aboriginal and European explorers and learn about the nation's original inhabitants.
  • Get the chance to board and tour the many vessels berthed at the docks, including historic warships and submarines.
  • View a full-size replica of Captain Cook's ship along with the Spirit of Australia, the fastest boat in the world.
  • Note: The National Maritime Museum has re-opened now, except for some areas such as the warship submarine, 3D Cinema, Kids on Deck, the lighthouse, and the library. These areas are temporarily closed. You are welcome to book your ticket now and enjoy the trip.
  • Unearth rich maritime history at the National Maritime Museum, Australia.
  • Browse galleries and exhibits on Aboriginal and European explorers and learn about the nation's original inhabitants.
  • Get the chance to board and tour the many vessels berthed at the docks, including historic warships and submarines.
  • View a full-size replica of Captain Cook's ship along with the Spirit of Australia, the fastest boat in the world.
  • Note: The National Maritime Museum has re-opened now, except for some areas such as the warship submarine, 3D Cinema, Kids on Deck, the lighthouse, and the library. These areas are temporarily closed. You are welcome to book your ticket now and enjoy the trip.

Inclusions

  • Australian National Maritime Museum See It All Ticket
  • All Exhibitions and Activities
  • Action Stations Experience
  • Access to all vessels
  • Hands-on Arts and Crafts at Kids on Deck

Exclusions

  • Hotel Transfers
  • Guide
  • Entry is free for all Australian Defence Force veterans, serving members, and current cadets. Children aged 4-15, students, and families enjoy reduced ticket pricing (carry a valid photo ID).
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view, Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass attractions.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view, Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass attractions.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view, Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass attractions.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge view with Go City: Sydney Explorer Pass options.
NEW

Go City Sydney Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

from
AU$114
Free cancellation

Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience

Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Slash costs, not experiences, in Sydney! With the Go City Explorer Pass, choose anywhere between 2 to 7 attractions to visit from the 25+ options.
  • Why buy individual tickets to the Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney Opera House, Whale Watching Cruise, and more when you can save so much more with this pass?
  • From Urban Winery tours to the Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Blue Mountains Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, your pass covers a range of experiences.
  • Show your pass at the first attraction, get it scanned, and voila, it's activated! Plus, your pass is good for 60 days, giving you plenty of time to explore.
  • Slash costs, not experiences, in Sydney! With the Go City Explorer Pass, choose anywhere between 2 to 7 attractions to visit from the 25+ options.
  • Why buy individual tickets to the Sydney Tower Eye, Sydney Opera House, Whale Watching Cruise, and more when you can save so much more with this pass?
  • From Urban Winery tours to the Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Blue Mountains Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, your pass covers a range of experiences.
  • Show your pass at the first attraction, get it scanned, and voila, it's activated! Plus, your pass is good for 60 days, giving you plenty of time to explore.

Inclusions

  • Access to 2/3/4/5/7 attractions
  • Museums: Madame Tussauds
  • Zoos: Taronga Zoo, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo & more
  • Landmarks: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Tower Eye & more
  • Bus tours and cruises: 1-day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Vivid Sydney Harbour cruise, Whale Watching cruise & more
  • Guided Tours: The Rocks walking tour, Blue Mountains stargazing tour & more
  • Activities: Quiz Room Experience, Bondi Surfboard Hire, Wine Tasting & more
  • Get complete details here
  • Tip: Don't miss out on the hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour of Sydney or Bondi Beach Surfing; one of the most popular ones.
  • You can cancel your pass within 90 days of purchase and get a full refund if it hasn't been activated yet.
  • Some attractions require advance bookings.
  • You can visit each attraction only once daily.
  • The app is available in English, French, German, and Spanish.
  • First, download the Go City App. Follow the instructions on your order confirmation to sync your pass with the Go City app.
  • Once you visit your first attraction, your pass will be activated! Feeling old school? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email. You can also show this version of your pass on your phone.
  • The Go City app has loads of handy features to help you plan your itinerary, check attraction opening times, and reserve (where required).

Validity

  • Before activation: Valid for 60 days from the date of purchase.
  • After activation: Your pass is activated as soon as you visit your 1st attraction. The pass can be activated within 2 years from the date of purchase.
  • Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
  • These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.

Top things to do in Sydney

The Australian National Maritime Museum is the country's national center for maritime collections, exhibitions, research, and archaeology. Located on the shores of Darling Harbour, it is home to exhibits on Aboriginal and European explorers, the navy, surfing, sailing, and Australia’s beach culture. Over 850,000 people visit the Australian National Maritime Museum annually including families, interstate, and international tourists. Find here fascinating artifacts, thought-provoking exhibitions, and fun activities for kids (as well as adults). This is a chance to connect to Australia’s maritime past and present in surprising ways. Interestingly, it also has one of the largest floating historical vessel collections in the world!

Why Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum

The Australian National Maritime collection contains a diverse range of over 140,000 historic artifacts. It explores Australia’s close links to the sea through commerce, exploration, immigration, adventure, and sports. The museum also boasts one of the world's largest museum fleets, apart from interesting exhibitions throughout the year. There are three vessels that are open for public tours: the HM Bark Endeavour Replica, the destroyer HMAS Vampire, and the submarine HMAS Onslow. 

Australia National Maritime Museum Tickets

Your Australian National Maritime Museum Explained

Book yourself tickets to the Australian National Maritime Museum, and enjoy a complete and wholesome experience with access to everything inside. Discover the maritime history of the Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders; catch sight of the Spirit of Australia, get a sneak peek into the lives of sailors aboard a naval warship and a modern submarine, and explore galleries that give you perspective on subjects like immigration, naval defense forces, sailing, and surfing.

The ticket includes access to several historic vessels, the likes of which include the HMAS Onslow, a submarine from the Royal Australian Navy, the HMAS Vampire, and more. Depending on the day of your visit, you may find one or more ships available to tour. You also get free access to all the exhibitions and activities. Watch the short film Action Stations that showcases a re-creation of a mission event from each vessel.  If you’re taking your kids along with you, they can get their hands dirty with printmaking, sculpture, or painting at Kids on Deck. Your ticket to the Australian National Maritime Museum ticket is valid for the date selected during checkout. You can enter at any time within the operating hours.

Super Flexible Cancellation Policy: Cancel the ticket up to 24 hours before schedule to get full refund.

Why Book Australian National Maritime Museum Tickets Online?

  • Advance Booking: By booking your Australian National Maritime Museum tickets online, you can plan your visit well in advance and book your tickets too. You need not worry about the tickets being sold out. 
  • Access to all exhibitions and vessels: Booking the Australian Maritime Museum Big Ticket here will allow you to explore all parts of the museum at leisure.
  • Kids activity: Big adventures await the little ones at Kids on Deck, where they can try their hand at printmaking, sculpture, or painting.

Discounted Tickets to Australian National Maritime Museum

Children aged 4-15 enjoy reduced ticket pricing (carry a valid photo ID). Entry is free for all Australian Defence Force veterans, serving members, and current cadets.

Things to do at the Australian National Maritime Museum

Exhibitions at the Australian National Maritime Museum

Exhibitions

The ever-changing exhibitions at the Australian National Maritime Museum are a must-explore while you're here. Current exhibitions include 'A Mile in My Shoes,' a pop-up store where you can try on somebody else’s pair of shoes and listen to their story. It celebrates the lives of migrants and refugees who have made this country their home – people who have changed the face of the nation and have been changed by it. 'Beach Couture' displays 'trashion' collected from beaches and oceans in Sydney, Australia, and Los Angeles, America. 'Mariw Minaral' displays some of the finest examples of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait Islands) artist Alick Tipoti’s intricate linocut printmaking practice.

Historic Vessels at the Australian National Maritime Museum

Vessels

The Australian National Maritime Museum is known for being home to one of the largest floating historical vessel collections in the world. Some of its permanent exhibitions of vessels include the HMAS Onslow, which was built during the Cold War and was required to track Soviet submarines. With your ticket, you get to see the danger and drama of life on board Onslow in Action Stations, an immersive experience. 'Akarana' (Maori for ‘Auckland’) was built in Auckland to compete in Australian regattas back in the late 1800s. There's also the vessel 'Tu Do' which arrived in Darwin on 21 November 1977 with 31 Vietnamese refugees crowded on board.

Kids at the Australian National Maritime Museum

Kids Activities

For little kids with curious minds, the possibilities of exploration are endless at the Australian National Maritime Museum. They can climb and play aboard real-life tall ships and warships, or head to Sea Science Pontoon, where they can peek under the surface of the harbor on the waterfront. For carers and bubs, there's Seaside Strollers and Mini Mariners - themed exhibition and play areas. Kids can also try their hand at printmaking, sculpture, or painting at Kids on Deck.

Australian National Maritime Museum galleries

Galleries

Permanent exhibitions at the museum are focused around six gallery spaces. Inside 'Navigator', find artifacts relating to the discovery of Australia's coastline. 'Passengers' takes you through voyages made to Australia from original settlers to war brides, refugees, and cruise ship visitors. 'Eora-First People' gives you an insight into Aboriginal Australians, Torres Strait Islanders, and their relationship with the water. The 'Navy' gallery is home to models and histories of four Australian warships named after the city of Sydney, whereas the 'Australia-US relationship' gallery connects the links between the two countries. At 'Watermarks,' see the yacht Blackmores First Lady. Other galleries include the Tasman Light Gallery, which has original lenses from the Tasman Island Lighthouse. Three other galleries are used to host temporary exhibitions.

Plan Your Visit to the Australian National Maritime Museum

Opening Hours
Getting There
Dining
Timings at Australian National Maritime Museum
  • Daily: 10.30 AM - 4 PM
  • School Holidays: 9.30 AM - 5 PM
  • Closings & Holidays: Christmas Day
  • Last boarding for all vessels: 50 minutes prior to the closing time (3.10 PM or 4.10 PM)
How to Reach Australian National Maritime Museum
  • Walk: The Australian National Maritime Museum is located in Darling Harbour, a pleasant 15-minute stroll across Pyrmont Bridge from the center of Sydney’s CBD, or a 10-minute walk from Sydney Fish Market.
  • Car: Museum visitors get $15 all-day validated parking at Harbourside Car Park and Star Casino Car Park (7 AM to 6:30 PM). Remember to get your parking ticket stamped at the museum reception.
  • Train: The museum is a 20-minute walk from Town Hall Station. You can also connect with the L1 Light Rail at Central Station to arrive just across the road from the museum.
  • Bus: The 389 from Bondi Junction stops at the front door.
  • Ferry: Catch the spectacular F4 route from Circular Quay to Pyrmont Bay Wharf, right at the museum. You can also catch the F3 route to Barangaroo Wharf, a 20-minute walk across Pyrmont Bridge to the museum.
  • Light Rail: Take the L1 light rail from Central Station, or from Dulwich Hill through the inner west, to Pyrmont Bay stop, right across the road from the museum.
Restaurants at National Maritime Museum

If you work up an appetite, head over to the family-friendly Yots Café (open from 11 AM to 4 PM), located on the harbor side of the museum. Or enjoy a quick coffee, a delicious delight, or healthy snack from The Coffee Kiosk (open from 8:30 AM to 11 AM), located on Pyrmont Bridge side of the museum.

You can even get your own lunch and picnic at the tables on the museum’s Waterfront Boardwalk overlooking Darling Harbour.

Visitor Tips

  • There is ramp access into the main museum building via the main entrance.
  • There is lift or ramp access to all exhibition spaces within the main building, and to wharves and the viewing platform outside the museum.
  • Courtesy wheelchairs are available with a photo ID. Pre-booking a wheelchair is essential, please phone 9298 3777.
  • Unfortunately, due to the vessel design and walkways on the vessels, wheelchair access is not available.
  • Accessible toilets are located on the museum’s lower level (accessible by lift and walkway) and in the ground-level entry foyer.
  • Audio-induction loops are available in the theatre, main ticket areas, and museum meeting rooms. Interactive displays are located throughout the museum.
  • If extreme wet weather hits, the museum closes all vessels for visitor safety. If it looks like it's going to be a hot day, come early and see the vessels first.

Australian National Maritime Museum: FAQs

What is the Australian National Maritime Museum?

The Australian National Maritime Museum lets you get a sneak peek into Australia’s link to the sea. The exhibits featured here tell stories of naval wars, ancient saltwater traditions, modern beach culture, and aquatic sporting achievements. 

Where is the Australian National Maritime Museum located?

It is located on the shores of Darling Harbour, (the Pyrmont side) at 2 Murray St, Sydney.

What are the opening hours at the Australian National Maritime Museum?

The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (extended to 6:00 PM in summer). The last visit to the vessels is at 4:10 PM.

What is unique about the Australian National Maritime Museum?

The Australian National Maritime collection contains a diverse range of over 140,000 historic artifacts. This includes artifacts relating to the maritime history of the Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders and galleries that give you perspective on subjects like immigration, naval defense forces, sailing, and surfing. It also has one of the largest floating historical vessel collections in the world.

How much do Australian National Maritime Museum tickets cost?

The Big Ticket to the museum is priced at AU$25 for anyone aged 16 and above. Children aged 4-15 enjoy reduced ticket pricing at AU$15.

What is included in the ticket to the Australian National Maritime Museum?

The ticket gives you access to the galleries and exhibitions. You also get access to several historic vessels, the likes of which include the HMAS Onslow, a submarine from the Royal Australian Navy, the HMAS Vampire, and more. Depending on the day of your visit, you may find one or more ships available to tour. Apart from the exhibitions and activities, you can also watch the short film Action Stations that showcases a re-creation of a mission event from each vessel.  If you’re taking your kids along with you, they can get their hands dirty with printmaking, sculpture, or painting at Kids on Deck.

What are the best things to do at the Australian National Maritime Museum?

See Australia’s National Monument to Migration, the Welcome Wall. It celebrates those who have migrated from around the world to live in Australia. Also, see the historic vessels that the museum is home to. These include the Akarana, Krait, and Tu Do. Explore the galleries that display artifacts relating to the discovery of Australia's coastline and its native inhabitants. 

Is the Australian National Maritime Museum suitable for toddlers to visit?

Yes, it is. There’s even an educator-led tour through new exhibitions for carers and babies.

Is outside food allowed at the Australian National Maritime Museum?

Yes, it is. You can get your own lunch and picnic at the tables on the museum’s Waterfront Boardwalk overlooking Darling Harbour.

Are wheelchairs available inside the Australian National Maritime Museum?

Courtesy wheelchairs are available with a photo ID. Pre-booking a wheelchair is essential, please phone 9298 3777.

Are there lockers available at the Australian National Maritime Museum?

Self-serve lockers are available.

Do Australian National Maritime Museum tickets include free parking?

Museum visitors get $15 all-day validated parking at Harbourside Car Park and Star Casino Car Park. Remember to get your parking ticket stamped at the museum reception.

What is the cancellation policy for Australian National Maritime Museum tickets?

You can cancel tickets up to 24 hours before schedule for full refund.

How long are Australian National Maritime Museum tickets valid for?

They are all-day passes that are valid for the date selected during checkout.

Can I purchase Australian National Maritime Museum tickets at the venue?

Yes, you can. Although it is advisable to book your tickets online.