Queensland Maritime Museum

The Queensland Maritime Museum in Brisbane, Australia, is a treasure trove for maritime enthusiasts. Located on the Brisbane River near the Goodwill Bridge, the museum houses an extensive collection of vessels, including the HMAS Diamantina, a World War II frigate, and the Forceful, a steam tug. Indoor galleries display ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts from Queensland's seafaring past. Visitors can climb aboard the ships, explore the engine rooms, and learn about the region's maritime history, from early exploration to modern navy. The museum's location offers scenic views of the river and city skyline. With knowledgeable volunteers and hands-on exhibits, it provides an engaging experience for all ages.

Don't miss

• Tour the HMAS Diamantina frigate and see its guns and bridge
• Ride the Forceful steam tug on scheduled sailing days
• View the Pearl, a 19th-century pearling lugger
• Explore the lighthouse exhibit with a working Fresnel lens
• See the extensive model ship collection

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Queensland Maritime Museum

Cheapest way inBloody Brisbane CBD Crime Tour - Crime Tours Australia | Jack Sim4.9★ · 90 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$28 per personSee dates →Most bookedBrisbane River Cruise with entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary4.8★ · 1,676 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$98 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleBrisbane Private Custom Walking Tour with A Guide (Private Tour)4.4★ · 10 travelers2-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$70 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Allow 2–3 hours to fully explore the ships and indoor exhibits.
• Photography is allowed; no flash inside the museum galleries.
• There is no café on site, but nearby South Bank has many dining options.
• Bag storage is available for a small fee.

A bit of history

Founded in 1971, the museum is housed in a former 1940s naval store building. Its collection grew from donations, including the HMAS Diamantina, which served in the Pacific during WWII and later as a survey ship.