We only went to this museum because the weather was inclement and we needed an indoor activity. Admission was cheap and the audiovisual was interesting and gave good information about the history of the ship. It was easy to walk around the facility.

From outside this museum looks rather underwhelming and we almost were put off. However I am so glad that we decided to have a look around as it was fascinating. You will need to climb stairs up to the first floor to read the exhibit about how the ship was built, it’s purpose and multiple journeys. Parts of the display are looking a little dated- you definitely don’t get anything interactive here. The highlight obviously is the ship herself- you can see part of the hull from the outside of the museum- but going inside and down into the actual lower sections of the ship is really what makes this stand out as a visitor must do in Picton (or even New Zealand). To be able to be where hundreds of convicts were transported is amazing. As I said, there are steps both inside the museum building, and also uneven surfaces and steps while on the Edwin Fox. Well worth visiting.

The museum is based upon the history and restoration efforts of a very old wooden ocean sailing ship. There is a short film, plus exhibits on early emigration to Australia, and in particular the history of a wooden sailing ship. Next door is the "preserved" (not really restored) wooden ship - you get to walk into the hull. We spent perhaps 90 minutes.