Maritime

Otago’s maritime history and rich relationship with the ocean

About

The Maritime Gallery was established by the Otago Maritime Society in 1973. It shares the seafaring stories of this region and the wider world.

Much of the space is dedicated to the Union Steam Ship Company (USSCo), also known as “the Southern Octopus”, which was formed in 1875 by James Mills. It offered both passenger and cargo services. By 1914, it was one of the largest shipping companies in the world.

The gallery has numerous builders’ models of significant USSCo ships. These and other local, national, and international vessels highlight advances in shipbuilding techniques, the importance of trade routes, and war-time service.

Presiding over the centre of the space is the fin whale skeleton, collected by Captain Jackson Barry in 1883. Barry toured the whale around New Zealand, charging people to dine in its mouth, before selling it to the Museum.

Don't Miss

• A 17-metre-long juvenile fin whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling

• A Siebe Gorman diving suit

• Over 60 model ships, including the Maheno, Mokoia and Marama (passenger vessels that became floating hospitals during WWI)

• 15 ships’ bells