The Queensland Maritime Museum

If you have a naval or maritime enthusiast in your family, a trip to the Queensland Maritime Museum at South Bank can satisfy their curiosity about all kinds of vessels and their place in Queensland’s history.

The Brisbane Maritime Museum

Although it’s not the first thing you will encounter, climbing aboard the restored Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Diamantina is a major highlight, especially for children. The Royal Australian Navy donated the decommissioned World War 2 frigate. It’s fascinating!

The warship is in dry dock; you can explore its decks and interior at your leisure.

If you have older children, they will love exploring the maze within the Diamantina.

You get to see the engine room, sleeping arrangements, washrooms and more, a rabbit warren of cramped tunnels and stairs.

You could spend hours inside the main building uncovering all the stories the Queensland Maritime Museum has hidden in its collections. There are various displays, including amazingly intricate model ships and life-size sailboats.

You can also be immersed in tales of migration, uncovering the factors that lead families to Australia. Another highlight of the museum is a large lighthouse and a collection of lights shining brightly to light a course to safety.

The Queensland Maritime Museum is staffed by volunteers who work to collate and restore many of the artefacts. They are very willing to answer questions and share their knowledge with visitors.

Parts of the Queensland Maritime Museum may not interest younger children, especially as many artefacts are not to be handled. Exploration of the outdoor spaces and vessels may be more suitable for energetic little bodies with curious hands.

Queensland Maritime Museum Admission Fees

There is an admission fee to get into the Maritime Museum and you should check out their website before you go for entry details, including opening times. The Queensland Maritime Museum is closed from 24th – 26th December annually, as well as Good Friday. Opening hours are also reduced on ANZAC Day each year.

Places to eat nearby

There are some packaged snack foods and drinks available from the gift shop, and a few picnic tables within the grounds that boast an incredible view of the Brisbane River.

If you are looking for something more substantial there are so many places to eat at South Bank, offering a wide variety of cuisine types at different price points. Alternatively, there are plenty of shady picnic tables or beautiful grassy spots in South Bank Parklands to enjoy a meal from home and BBQ facilities too.

Accessibility

Most parts of the Queensland Maritime Museum have a ramp or lift access. Accessible toilets are available. Wheelchair access onto HMAS Diamantina is restricted to the main deck. Some parts of the museum and some vessels are not wheelchair accessible. Please contact the museum before visiting to discuss any special needs.

What we thought of The Queensland Maritime Museum

We found the Queensland Maritime Museum to be an intriguing and informative venue and the ideal place to visit to learn more about the maritime heritage of Queensland and its connection to the world. We felt immersed in history while exploring the HMAS Diamantina.

This review is written by Brisbane parent and explorer Vanessa. 

How to get here

The Queensland Maritime Museum is located in the South Bank Parklands and is easily accessible to all modes of transport. Public transport information can be obtained from Translink and parking is available at The South Bank car park on Little Stanley Street South Brisbane.

Make a day of it over the Qld School Holidays, catch some fun on the Brisbane River, pack a picnic and take advantage of the expanse of parklands that surround the Queensland Maritime Museum.