Exploring Williamstown’s Maritime Museum & Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition
If you’re after a Sunday outing that’s a little different, Williamstown’s Seaworks is a brilliant spot to explore. Nestled along the waterfront, this historic site is home to Melbourne’s oldest morgue, and a Maritime Museum, featuring an intriguing exhibit of seafaring history.
But right now, there’s even more reason to visit – upstairs, the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition is on display, showcasing some of the most breathtaking marine photography from around the world. Finish your visit with a drink and live music at the Pirates Tavern, and you’ve got yourself a perfect Sunday plan.
Visit Seaworks with the Grandkids These School Holidays
If you’re searching for an exciting and educational outing to enjoy with the grandkids, Seaworks Williamstown has plenty to offer.
We recently spent a Sunday afternoon exploring Williamstown with Dimi and her grandkids, and what an adventure!
Let the kids step aboard Melbourne’s maritime past at the Maritime Museum, spark their imagination with the breathtaking images at the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition, and fuel their curiosity with a spine-tingling Former Williamstown Morgue Tour.
Finish the day with a relaxed break at Pirates Tavern, while they let off steam by the waterfront. It’s the perfect way to mix fun and learning during the school holidays!
Dimi’s review
Take the Williamstown exit off the West Gate Bridge, drive down Melbourne Rd to Historical Williamstown. A short drive brings you to Seaworks at 82 Nelson Place. This is home to Melb. Maritime Museum, Former Williamstown Morgue, the Exhibition of Ocean Photographer of the Year, (ends 6th July 2025) and the lively Pirates Tavern. The venue also hosts festivals and markets throughout the year.
Seaworks is age and family friendly, with nearby street parking for 2-3hrs, (check times), then it’s easy access into Seaworks!
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS soon, it’s a beaut place to take the children for some stimulating history, a beautiful exhibition and then relax or play!
We started with the Maritime Museum, the dedicated children’s space where the kids rang the ships bell, wore pirate and navy hats, and steered the ships wheels—“Ahoy, me hearties!!”
The museum volunteers are eager to share their treasure trove (pun intended) of information with you!
There are replicas of hand made historical ships, information about The First Fleet, Dry Docks, The Time Ball Tower, The Gellibrand Pile Light and much more!
A short walk with the guide to the Morgue, he had the children captivated with all the eeeyuuuu info.
Up the lift, or stairs, was the Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition. This exhibition had us in awe of the stunning works and information about the beauty and tragedies of our precious oceans. (Ask the children to find the mermaid photo, good one, Amy!)
We finished the tour at the rustic Pirates Tavern, how appropriate! A beautiful open space for the children to play, while we sat, time for a drink while listening to a live rock and roll band.
– Dimi
Melbourne Maritime Museum at Seaworks
Tucked inside Seaworks, the Melbourne Maritime Museum celebrates Victoria’s rich nautical past.
Step inside and you’ll find a fascinating collection of maritime artefacts, model ships, and historical displays that bring the stories of Melbourne’s ports, sailors, and shipwrecks to life.
Exhibitions in the museum cover a range of topics, including the First Fleet, prison hulks, the Melbourne Harbour Trust, and the Colonial Navy. There’s also an extensive library of maritime books and a remarkable collection of ship photographs, perfect for those wanting to dive deeper into Melbourne’s seafaring history.
For younger visitors, there are plenty of hands-on experiences to enjoy. Kids can climb aboard a replica ship, don a captain’s hat, take the helm at the steering wheel, or pose for fun photos in a ship’s tub. There’s also a bell and telegraph pole they can ring, adding a playful touch to their maritime adventure.
One of the highlights is the steam tug Wattle, moored outside, which offers a glimpse into Australia’s shipbuilding history.
The Maritime Museum is run by passionate volunteers who are always happy to share stories, making it an engaging experience whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Melbourne’s maritime past.
Opening times: The Maritime Museum is open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Tickets: $5 per adult and $10 per family, with all proceeds going towards the redevelopment of Seaworks.
Groups: Group tours are available at other times—email [email protected] to arrange a visit.
Ocean Photographer of the Year Exhibition
After exploring the museum, head upstairs to see the Ocean Photographer of the Year exhibition. This stunning display features award-winning images capturing the beauty, mystery, and fragility of our oceans.
From mesmerising underwater scenes to powerful shots of marine wildlife, the exhibition is both inspiring and thought-provoking. It’s a reminder of the importance of ocean conservation, but also a celebration of the wonders hidden beneath the waves.
The exhibition space itself, set against the backdrop of Seaworks’ historic maritime setting, adds to the experience. It’s a rare chance to see world-class photography right here in Williamstown.
Tips:
- Plan to spend 45 minutes to an hour, as there are 118 incredible photos to view.
- Bench seats are located throughout, making it easy to take a break as needed.
Opening times: Wednesday to Sunday between 10 am and 5 pm, until 6 Jul 2025;
Tickets: $20 per adult, $15 for Seniors Card holders, $12 for children aged 4 – 15 years.
Former Williamstown Morgue Tour
For those interested in a touch of the macabre, the Former Williamstown Morgue Tour is another fascinating experience at Seaworks.
Dating back to the 1850s, this historic building once played a key role in Melbourne’s maritime history. The brief tour delves into the morgue’s history, and eerie tales of the past.
Morgue tours are free and can be booked via the Maritime Museum. Subject to volunteer availability.
Pirates Tavern – Drinks and Live Music
All that exploring calls for a drink, and Pirates Tavern, tucked away behind Seaworks, is just the place. This character-filled spot has a relaxed, old-school charm, with a nautical theme that fits perfectly with the day’s adventures.
Run by the Williamstown Maritime Association, the tavern helps raise funds to support the Seaworks site, making every drink you enjoy part of a great cause.
On Sundays, (and select Fridays and Saturdays) you can enjoy live music while sipping on a beer or wine, making it a great spot to wind down after your visit to the museum and exhibition.
Open Thursday – Sunday, from 1 pm
Four Seaworks Stops to Explore
- Melbourne Maritime Museum – Open Wednesday, Friday & Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm
- Former Williamstown Morgue Tour – Tours available via the Maritime Museum, just ask one of the friendly volunteers at the front desk (same timings as Maritime Museum)
- Ocean Photographer of the Year – Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 4:30 pm
- Pirates Tavern – Open Thursday – Sunday, from 1 pm (live music on Sundays)
Getting There & Practical Tips
- Location: Seaworks, 82 Nelson Place, Williamstown
- Opening Hours: The Maritime Museum and exhibition are open on select days – check the Seaworks website for details.
- Transport: Williamstown is an easy train ride from the city, or take the scenic route via the Williamstown ferry from Southbank.
- Parking: Metered 2-hour parking is available out the front of Seaworks, however if you don’t mind a short walk there is ample untimed free parking on Ann Street.
- Accessibility: The museum and exhibition space are wheelchair accessible with ramps and a lift, but check in advance for any specific needs. Accessible toilets are available for the four venues.
This sponsored post has been produced in collaboration with Seaworks Maritime Association.
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