Under a lofty roof, the Maritime Museum traverses Australia’s unbroken relationship with the sea. Exhibits range from indigenous canoes to surf culture and immigration to the Navy. A worthwhile ‘big ticket’ (adult/child $35/20) includes entry to some ships that are closed from the outside, including the atmospheric submarine HMAS Onslow and the destroyer HMAS Vampire. High production short film Action Stations sets the mode with a re-creation of the mission event from each vessel. The excellent free guided tours explain the characteristics of each vessel.
You can also see the lighthouse and the 1874 square rub. James Craig, which offers sailing trips from time to time. Cook’s copy in general try Anchor is also dropped here. There’s plenty for kids to do, especially at weekends and in the summer, when the big exhibits focus on younger visitors.
Other parts of the museum include a free exhibit on wooden boats next building to the north and opposite the Pyrmont Bay ferry stop. Welcome WallA monument to migration in Australia that seems particularly relevant in the current political climate.