Overview: History, what to expect, and unique features
The Brig Amity is a full-size, land-mounted replica of the vessel that carried the first European settlers to Western Australia. The original Amity, a 148-ton brig built in Canada in 1816, sailed from Sydney in 1826 under the command of Major Edmund Lockyer and arrived in Albany’s Princess Royal Harbour on Christmas Day, 1826. The replica was built in 1975 to commemorate the town’s 150th anniversary and is positioned only a few hundred metres from the original landing site. It’s one of the world’s best museum ships.
Visitors can expect an immersive look at early 19th-century maritime life and colonial history. You can walk the decks to imagine the six-week journey, explore the cramped quarters below deck, and learn about the 23 convicts, 19 soldiers, and supplies carried to establish the military garrison at King George Sound (now Albany). The replica is part of the Museum of the Great Southern and offers a tangible connection to the beginnings of European settlement in Western Australia.
Five great things to do in Albany
- 🎖️ Learn Australia’s war stories at the National Anzac Centre.
- 🚤 Board the Kalgan Queen for a wildlife and nature cruise.
- 🐋 Discover whaling industry secrets at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station.
- 🌊 Take a tour to the best spots along Albany’s dramatic coastline.
- 🚁 See that coastline from the sky on a scenic helicopter flight.
Brig Amity opening times and access notes
The Brig Amity is located within the grounds of the Museum of the Great Southern. Access times are generally consistent with the museum’s operating hours.
- General hours: The site is typically open daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm.
- Volunteer staffing: The lower decks of the ship are often staffed by volunteers, and access can occasionally vary during inclement weather. Visitors wishing to guarantee access to the lower deck should call the Museum of the Great Southern in advance.
- Closures: The museum and the Brig Amity are typically closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
- Location: The replica is easily spotted on the Princess Royal Harbour foreshore, adjacent to the Albany Entertainment Centre.
Brig Amity admission fees and tickets
A small fee applies to explore the ship’s interior and lower decks, which often includes a self-guided or audio tour.
| Access area | Price (Checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Decks (Below deck tour) | AUD $5.00 (Adult) | A small fee is charged for access to the interior. Concession rates may be available. |
| Museum of the Great Southern | Free General Admission | The surrounding museum is generally free, though donations are encouraged. |
Payment note: The small fee for the lower deck access is often collected on-site and may require cash payment. Visitors should be prepared with small denominations.
Accessibility and amenities
Due to the nature of the ship’s replica, access to the full experience is limited for those with mobility concerns.
- Upper Deck: The main deck is usually accessible via a ramp or gangplank from the land, offering a good vantage point.
- Lower Decks: Access to the ship’s interior and lower decks is via steep, narrow stairwells (ladders) and is not wheelchair accessible.
- Parking: Free car parking is available nearby as part of the Museum of the Great Southern complex.
- Facilities: Toilets and other amenities are available within the adjacent Museum of the Great Southern building.
Nearby attractions for the Brig Amity
The Brig Amity is a central historical attraction and is conveniently located near Albany’s waterfront and cultural precinct:
- Museum of the Great Southern: The adjacent museum provides context on the region’s natural history, Noongar culture, and European settlement, complementing the ship visit.
- Albany Entertainment Centre: Located close by, offering arts and performance events.
- Albany Heritage Park: Home to the National Anzac Centre and historic fortifications, located a short drive up Mount Clarence.
- Princess Royal Harbour Foreshore: Offers pleasant walking and cycling paths along the waterfront.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the Brig Amity a real, original ship? | No, it is a full-size replica built in 1975 to celebrate Albany’s 150th anniversary. The original ship was wrecked off Tasmania in 1845. |
| Does the ship float? | No, the replica is land-mounted on the foreshore, but it has been carefully positioned to give the impression of it floating in the harbour. |
| Is the whole ship free to explore? | No. A small cash fee is typically required to descend and explore the lower decks and the internal cabins. |
| How long should I spend at the Amity? | Most visitors spend between 30 and 60 minutes exploring the decks and the interior. Allow extra time for the adjacent Museum of the Great Southern. |
| Are guided tours available? | A self-guided audio tour is generally available, often using QR codes, to provide detailed historical information about the voyage and the ship’s history. |
More Western Australia travel
Other Western Australia travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- How to climb the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse near Augusta.
- Guide to visiting the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury.
- The best bits of Torndirrup National Park near Albany.
- Can you visit Breaksea Island in Albany?
- Discovering the dangers at Australia’s last whaling station.
