The S.S Maheno Shipwreck on K'gari (Fraser Island)
The SS Maheno Shipwreck is one of the most famous landmarks on K'gari (Fraser Island). Travelers come from far and wide to take epic drone shots or sunrise photos next to this colossal shipwreck on the sandy shores of 75 Mile Beach. If you're visiting K'gari and looking for the top tourist attractions, the SS Maheno Shipwreck is definitely one of them! Let's look at the history of this shipwreck so you can better understand what happened to the SS Maheno.
The Story Of The SS Maheno Shipwreck On K'gari (Fraser Island)
This shipwreck is one of the most famous historic events that has happened around K'gari. The SS Maheno suffered a disastrous fate that led her to the shores of K'gari. In a previous life, the Maheno operated as a luxury passengers ship, beginning her career in 1905 and chartering guests across from Sydney to Auckland.
For about 30 years the S.S Maheno sailed the world, accumulating an interesting resume as a passenger ship and also a hospital ship. The vessel also sailed in the Mediterranean and the Red Sea before being put out of commission.
What happened to the Maheno Ship?
During her final journey from Melbourne to Japan where she was set to be scrapped, a cyclone struck, leaving the Maheno adrift in the ocean off the east coast of Australia. She eventually beached on K'gari (Fraser Island) two days later, where she still remains today.
Luckily none of the 8 crew onboard were injured! In the early days of her residency on K'gari, there were several attempts to refloat the ship, all of which failed. The ship was eventually abandoned completely and left on the shores of 75 Mile Beach, where she will eventually turn to dust and return to the earth.
The SS Maheno Shipwreck Today
Today the Maheno Shipwreck is an extremely popular destination on K'gari (Fraser Island). Located right on 75 Mile Beach, where travelers love to drive up and down the so-called Sand Highway, this landmark is in a convenient location. Whether you're on a self-drive trip around K'gari, or you're on a guided tour, you will most likely pull over when you pass the famous shipwreck so you can get a closer look!
How to safely view the SS Maheno Shipwreck on K'gari
It's free and easy to check out the Maheno Shipwreck on K'gari, but make sure you keep your distance. Signage around the wreck warns to not get within 3 meters, as its decay has made the wreck particularly dangerous in recent years. Avoid touching the rusted ship, and remember that this wreck has been subject to the elements for many years and could break or fall apart at any time!
Even though you cannot get too close, the Maheno Shipwreck is still a great photo opportunity! It is an especially good location for sunrise, as it is located on the eastern shores of the island. Don't miss the popular attraction while exploring K'gari!
