A tour group stand inside the HMAS Ovens, listening to their tour guide
WA Maritime Museum

HMAS Ovens

Explore the HMAS Ovens Submarine

Discover the fascinating history of the authentic Cold War-era Oberon class submarine, HMAS Ovens, at the WA Maritime Museum.

This much-loved exhibit, located on Fremantle’s historic World War Two submarine slipway, is a significant part of Australia’s naval heritage.

Launched in 1967 and decommissioned in 1995, HMAS Ovens has been a key attraction at the WA Maritime Museum since it was gifted to Western Australia. Thanks to the State Government, the submarine underwent significant maintenance and heritage restoration, including the repair and painting of its hull in 2023. This work has revitalised the vessel, ensuring it remains an enduring symbol of Australia's Cold War capabilities and Western Australia’s continuing role as a key strategic submarine base.

Visitors can explore HMAS Ovens through guided tours that offer an immersive journey into the life of a submariner. Whether you choose an in-person experience or opt for a 360° virtual reality tour, the HMAS Ovens promises a unique and educational adventure for all ages.

Step aboard this remarkable piece of naval history today.

An image of the HMAS Ovens Submarine showing a freshly painted submarine after undergoing conservation

HMAS Ovens on Fremantle’s historic World War Two submarine slipway. Image credit WA Museum

 

Related events

A participant on the immersive tour of the HMAS Ovens climbs a ladder
Public Program

HMAS Ovens Tour

Find out what life is like aboard a submarine and immerse yourself in Fremantle's secret wartime history on this guided tour of the HMAS Ovens.

WA Maritime Museum

Daily | Every half hour, 10am – 3.30pm
Subject to availability | Contact us for up-to-date session times.