Navy crews marches through Adelaide

The crew of the Australian navy ship HMAS Adelaide have marched through the city bearing the same name.

The 300 crew of HMAS Adelaide have marched through the city of the same name, demanding their right to freedom of entry in a traditional ceremony.

The crew marched from Adelaide's Torrens Parade Ground to the Town Hall on Friday where they were challenged but then allowed to proceed.

Lord Mayor Martin Haese took the salute and said those present had witnessed something rare in modern times.

"Freedom of entry dates back to medieval times when military forces were granted permission to enter a city with their swords drawn, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying," he said.

"Without freedom of entry, which indicates peaceful intent, military forces wee often turned away at the city gates."

The HMAS Adelaide is the second of two Canberra Class amphibious ships build for the Australian navy.

The 23,000 tonne warship can land a force of more than 1000 by helicopter and water craft.