The HMAS Castlemaine is synonymous to Williamtown and a permanent fixture against the City skyline along Nelson Place. Originally designed and commissioned to be built during World War 2 in 1942, constructed at the Williamstown Dockland during its service it was primarily used as an escort vessel and also for mine-sweeping.

It now has a home at Gem Pier as a floating Museum and time capsule for wartime memorabilia.

Open on the weekends for tours you can board the ship and visit the mess hall, crew quarters, enjoy the views from the deck and see all of the memorabilia and historic artifacts. The volunteer tour guides are both passionate and knowledgeable about the ship and its contents, so feel free to ask questions on your tour. Mamma says the the engine room is really interesting and check out that ancient dive suit used all those years ago.

There is lots of climbing for the kids on thin metal stairs so make sure they can manage steep ladders or be prepared to do some lifting.

Mamma's special mentions: There is HEAPS to do in Williamstown whilst you are here - the Williamstown Craft Market is in Commonwealth Reserve once a month and if you enjoy boats then HMAS Castlemaine is only a few minutes walk away too and open for tours on Sundays.

the nitty gritty

Gem Pier
Williamstown

Open to the public on the weekends from 11am to 4pm.

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