The Port Adelaide Lighthouse was moved from the harbor entrance to its current position on Lipson Street in 1986.
The museum building was originally used as a bond store to house taxable goods imported into the colony.
The collection features the original figurehead from the City of Adelaide, the world's oldest surviving clipper ship.
The museum preserves the 1873 ketch Active, one of the last remaining examples of its type in Australia.
The institution is operated by the History Trust of South Australia.
The building's iron-bark timber structure reflects mid-19th century industrial engineering practices.
The South Australian Maritime Museum, located in the historic heart of Port Adelaide, occupies a restored 1850s bond store. It houses an extensive collection focusing on the maritime history of the state, including the migration stories of those who arrived by sea. The museum features the 1869 Port Adelaide Lighthouse, which was relocated from its original position at the harbor entrance. Visitors can explore the ketch Active, a heritage-listed vessel preserved in the museum’s dock. The collection includes ship models, navigation equipment, and interactive exhibits detailing the impact of the River Murray and the Port’s shipping industry. It serves as a repository for South Australia's naval history and colonial maritime development.
The red and white exterior of the relocated Port Adelaide Lighthouse.
Climb the lighthouse tower for a panoramic view of the Port Adelaide harbor area.
Check the daily schedule for guided lighthouse tours upon arrival.
Combine your visit with a walk around the adjacent historic Hart's Mill precinct.
Do not attempt to see the entire museum in under an hour; the multi-level layout requires more time to appreciate fully.
Open daily, except for major public holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume in gallery spaces and refrain from touching artifacts unless explicitly indicated.
