Photo showing a collection of metal shipwreck artifacts such as coins, jewellery, keys and a spoon on a dark background.

Our collections

Discover our rich and diverse collection

When you’re part of our community of supporters, you’re helping to preserve Australia’s history and celebrate our connection to the sea.

It’s with your support that we’re able to engage future generations in conversations about our maritime heritage, who we are as a country and as a people by connecting them with stories, objects, people and places of the past.

Whether you’re an individual, a family foundation, a corporate, or just keen to get involved, you can choose from a number of rewarding ways to support us and join our unique and passionate community.

Watercolour paining depicting a dramatic 19th century whaling scene, with  many small boats and a large whale tail in a rough sea.

The National Maritime Collection

Our collection in 3D

Screenshot showing 3D models of 3 boats on a grey background.
Screenshot of a 3D model of a diving helmet made out of bronze metal.

Our collection in 3D

Screenshot showing 3D models of 3 boats on a grey background.
A screenshot of a 3D model of an old, rectangular camera with lenses and dials.

Our collection in 3D

Screenshot showing 3D models of 3 boats on a grey background.
Screenshot of a 3D model of a bronze dugong sculpture covered with carved details.

Our collection in 3D

Screenshot showing 3D models of 3 boats on a grey background.
Screenshot of a 3D model of a round, silver coloured medallion with an engraved image of a sailing ship.
Small boat with white sails on the water, with land covered in green plants.

The Australian Register of Historic Vessels

Pile of library books with different coloured covers sitting on the side of a wooden boat.

The Vaughan Evans Library

Publications

Photograph of a laptop and iPad on a wooden table. The iPad shows the cover of a magazine called Signals.
Cover of signals magazine, with an images of a blue wave. the magazine is sitting on a wooden table.