Australian National Maritime Museum: History on the high seas
In colonial times, Sydney’s harbour was its greatest selling point. The location of the first European settlement in Australia, it was the lifeblood of early colonial life. And even before the first British ships arrived, the calm, temperate waters of Port Jackson (the name for the entire stretch of the harbour from the heads to the Parramatta River) held vital significance to the Gadigal, Cammeraygal, Eora and Wangal peoples.
With so much history, both ancient and modern, the Australian National Maritime Museum has no shortage of fascinating material on the harbour, and the indelible link between the ocean and the Australian way of life.
The museum showcases a mix of permanent and seasonal exhibitions, kid’s activities and an extremely impressive fleet of historic vessels docked at the museum wharves.
Waves of settlers and refugees have arrived in Australia over centuries – the Sea Travels gallery relates some of their emotional and harrowing stories. The Navigators gallery pays tribute to early oceanic explorers and the Eora First People gallery explores Indigenous Australia’s spiritual and historic connection to the sea and inland waterways.
Best of all though is the immense HMAS Vampire, a hulking 1956 Daring Class destroyer. Visitors can come on board and take a guided tour of the crewman’s quarters, the internal mechanics of the ship and the action stations.
Afterwards, relax in the open-air Yots café and enjoy seafood-oriented fare at the water’s edge.
HelloSydney Tip: Entry to the museum is free, admission charges apply to the vessels. The popular ‘Navy ticket’ is $20 for adults and $10 for children and gets you entry to the HMAS Vampire and submarine HMAS Onslow.
Posted by Fiona Davies
