Queensland Maritime Museum intrigues as much as it fascinates, and therefore makes for a vacation well spent while touring Brisbane, Queensland.
The museum was founded in 1971, and is home to artifacts and relics relevant to the maritime field. What began as a voluntary association has grown in leaps and bounds to be one of Brisbane’s most loved tourist destinations. The museum is located on Brisbane river banks, at the far end of the South Bank Parklands.
The maritime museum houses a wide array of collectibles that include maritime books from the past, antique photographs as well as other artifacts and documents. All of the exhibits are available for public viewing. If you’d like to get a glimpse of the maritime era in Australia, you will be enamored by the different items on location.
It is interesting to note that the grounds on which the museum is located are aptly named in maritime terms. These include Navigation, Lighthouses and the Dry Dock. Look out for the Marine Engines as well as the Ship Models and the Vessels.
The museum is sometimes described as a sea-salty museum, thanks to its proximity to the waters. One of the most popular attractions at the maritime museum is the HMAS Diamantina. This is a sea vessel that has seen better days in the Second World War. Its restoration however, has made it a stellar highlight for visitors at the museum. The gigantic vessel offers you the opportunity to explore its interior, perfect for taking a look at the way of life of seamen in the past.
The steam tug Forceful is also an excellent vessel worth taking a look at, giving you a sneak peek into the ways of the sea men decades ago. Other recreational boats also make for an interesting set of vessels. The Marine Engines that make up part of the exhibition challenge you to learn more about how these maritime vessels were powered. Ranging from tiny steam engines to expansion steam engines, this exhibition will make you appreciate the technological advancements made in recent years.
Other exhibits include ship models, lighthouses and nautical equipment. The museum is also home to various events and exhibitions. Depending on the time of your visit, you can always enjoy a maritime-inspired event.
Some of the facilities available on location include accessible parts of the museum, provision of venue options for different functions as well as research facilities for those who would like to take an interest in this field. Visit the shop on location to get handy and practical souvenirs. Queensland Maritime Museum is a fun destination. The information box below will help you get around with ease.
Address: Corner of Stanley and Sidon Streets, South Brisbane (below Goodwill Bridge in South Bank Parklands).
Opening hours: Daily – 0930 to 1630 hours. Closed on Good Friday, 24th, 25th and 26th of December.
Ticket Prices: adults – $16, Concession – $14, Family – $38, Child – $7
Phone Number: (+61) 7 3844 5361
Distance from Brisbane CBD: 3.5 kilometers