We Australians are closely linked to the sea, our oceans and waterways have influenced our development and who we are. This museum captures these themes with fascinating artefacts, lively exhibitions, fun activities for kids and even the chance to board ships.

The Australian National Maritime Museum offers fantastic organised activities for toddlers, pre-schoolers and older school children. During school term, every Sunday is Family Fun Day for kids aged 5-12. Themed activities include craft, stories, games, puzzles and dress-ups. For 2-5 year olds, the excellent weekly Mini Mariners program takes children on an interactive gallery tour followed by play time in the museum’s activity area, with craft, games, books, dress-ups and story time. The theme for Mini Mariners changes each month, so repeat visits will be unique.

The ANM also runs great school holiday programs for ages 5-12 and 8-14 and they do fully themed birthday parties for your little sailors.

Ellaslist opinion: The Australian National Maritime Museum is not just for maritime history buffs, it is truly dedicated to introducing children to our national sea-faring history in a fun and engaging way. And mums and dads are sure to gain a greater appreciation of how inextricably linked our nation’s evolution is to the ocean that surrounds us.

Allow 2 hours for your visit especially if you tour the boats and submarine, which tend to be the real highlights of a visit. Do be aware that though museum entry is free, there is a charge for tours of these vessels, which can be a bit hefty although discounted Family Tickets are available.

The facilities are as family friendly as you will find with excellent pram access, parents’ rooms and a very child friendly café.

Admission: to the main museum is free. Charges apply for some tours and for exploring the museum’s vessels. See website for details.

Getting there: Catch train to Town Hall station and walk across Pyrmont Bridge.  Bus route 443 from York St or Circular Quay.  Sydney ferry from Circular Quay to Pyrmont Bay wharf or Matilda City Loop ferry from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour wharf. Light rail to Pyrmont Bay station. Monorail to Harbourside station.

Facilities: The museum is accessible to strollers and prams via ramps and lifts. There are unisex baby care facilities near the entry foyer and on the lower level. Children are welcome at Yots café, where you can warm bottles and use highchairs. An adjoining kiosk offers sandwiches, light snacks and drinks.

Places nearby: Darling Harbour, Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World