Being an island Tasmania has a rich maritime history. There is plenty to tell of early sailing ships which gave way to steam, to transport people and products such as apples, timber and minerals. There was a shipbuilding industry evidenced by displays of shipwright's tools. On display are navigational instruments, ship models and figureheads. The museum houses over 40 000 photographs, plus plenty of paintings. Tours are available with an experienced guide that covers the maritime museum, colonial gallery of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and the port area. There is a gift shop.

Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri.

(Closed Christmas and Good Friday)