Photo of a women and two boys walking down a boardwalk, with shrubs, a lighthouse, tall ship masts and orange lifeboat in the background.

Visit the museum

A new adventure is calling in the heart of Darling Harbour.

Whether you’re a family on an adventure, a local looking for something new or a visitor to Sydney, drop in and visit us and experience our world of ocean stories.

Stroll along the waterfront and jump on board our vessels, walk in the footsteps of our early explorers on the HMB Endeavour or descend below the depths of the sea in our submarine HMAS Onslow.

If ships aren’t your thing, visit our galleries and experience our historical artefacts that bring alive Australia’s deep connection to the sea, past and present. Don’t forget to ask about our special exhibitions curated for adults and kids, or plan ahead by checking out What’s On.

Pop in for a few hours or stay the whole day.

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Important information

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Getting here

Find us in Darling Harbour, next to the Pyrmont Bridge, right in the heart of Sydney.

Walk, drive, or catch the train, bus, ferry or light rail to get here.

For more information about travelling by public transport and to find the best route from wherever you are, plan your trip online.

Transport for NSW

Save with a museum membership

Enjoy exclusive benefits, including unlimited entry to our vessels and museum exhibitions! 

Availability and closures

Sometimes we may need to temporarily close areas of the museum - for maintenance, improvements or safety reasons. We thank you for your understanding and hope you enjoy the many adventures the museum offers.

Vessel Availability:

Check with our friendly staff on the day of your visit to confirm which vessels are open each day. 

  • HMAS Onslow will be closed for maintenance and away from the museum from 11 August - mid October 2025.
  • HMAS Advance is temporarily closed and will re-open mid October 2025.
  • Duyfken is currently undergoing maintenance work on the ship’s bow. This work is crucial to maintain the seaworthiness of the vessel. During this period, it remains open for public visitation but is unavailable for public sails, exhibition or events. Duyfken is temporarily closed Monday 29 October 2025.
  • Endeavour  - extensive work is being undertaken on the standing rigging, however this work should not impact public visitation. The construction and replacement are expected to be completed before the end of 2026.
     

Vaughan Evans Library

Between 30 September and 24 October 2025, the library will only be open to the public on Tuesdays and Fridays. The library will be closed entirely on the week of 14-18 October 2025.

Please make an appointment before your visit by phone: 02 9298 3739 or 02 9298 3693, or by email: library@sea.museum 

Eating and drinking

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a long lunch or a quick snack, we have a range of waterfront dining options catering for every taste and budget.

Settle in and treat yourself to our family friendly Ripples Café, Located on the harbour side of the museum. Open 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week.

Members - Save with your membership with a new special each month. See the latest members newsletter for this month's special.

Members and their guests can also enjoy free refreshments in the Members Lounge on the ground floor. (please check with Front of House staff on the day about Lounge opening times.)

Tips for your visit

Accessibility

We’re committed to being an inclusive museum that's accessible to all and offer tailored programs and services to assist. If you’re visiting and have particular access requirements, please let us know and our booking office can assist in planning your visit. Please phone us on 9298 3777

 

Groups

Photo showing two boys and a girl explore on board a tall ship and pose looking over the side of the ship across the water to the harbour.
Photo of a volunteer in blue uniform talks to a small group of adult visitors onboard a white and green boat.

Schools

Discover our range of school excursion programs and resources for students.