On this tour, you’ll visit key landmarks with our guide – including the convict-built Fitzroy Dock, the cathedral-like Turbine Shop and Sutherland Dock – and learn how the dockyard evolved across the span of 135 years.
But you won’t just hear about the ships and submarines built, converted or repaired here. No, we’ll also introduce you to the island’s iconic ‘iron giants’ and tell fun and thrilling tales! You’ll learn about a beloved budgie named Trevor, a ‘funny’ fossil discovery, a daring armed robbery and the unionists who fought not just for better worker rights… but the very fate of the dockyard.
This accessible tour takes place exclusively on the lower island, making it suitable for visitors with varying levels of mobility.
Enjoy additional Shipyard Tales Tours on weekdays throughout the summer school holidays!
Until February 2025*, we’re offering extra Shipyard Tales Tours at 1pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, in addition to our regular weekend tours.
*Excluding public holidays and February 11 and 12.
Suitable walking shoes and wet weather clothing (if needed).
For information about getting here, including by public transport, see: Visit us.
Note: Please be aware that weekends and public holidays may lead to increased capacity on public transport and some services being full. We advise you to plan your trip accordingly and allocate ample travel time.
Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes – Marina Cafe & Bar and Cockatoo Overboard – both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week. Reserve a table for your group or pre-order a meal to enjoy either before or after your tour. See: Eat and drink.
To exchange your ticket(s) or request a refund, please contact our ticket solutions provider, Ticketbooth, via their support webpage: support.ticketbooth.com.au/contact/
If you are considering booking accommodation with us and wanted to embark on a guided tour during your stay, please check tour availability first. We cannot always guarantee tours will run during your stay and on dates that have not been advertised. As tours can sell out, we recommend booking tickets at the same time as accommodation.
Want to arrange a Shipyard Tales Tour for a large group? Request a group tour using the webform on this page.
Probus groups, tour operators and other interested parties are invited to complete our large group tour request form. A minimum purchase of 10 tickets applies.
*Due to current high levels of demand, we are unable to book any private or on demand tours less than 14 days in advance of the tour date. Bookings subject to guide availability.