As an island state, Tasmania has had a long seafaring history, and much of it is on display at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania, located in a historic building right on the water in Sullivan’s Cove. While the museum is a magnet for maritime history lovers, the collections here also tell the story of Tasmania’s development from a colonial outpost to a hub for industries such as apples and timber. Listen to the interactive stories from fishermen and their families and learn how tough life was for people whose livelihoods depended on the sea. Explore the museum’s collection of artefacts from 15 wrecks and part of the shipwrecked barque Petrel. You’ll discover just how dangerous Tasmania’s waters can be. Even for whales the waters were not safe. Southern right whales were once so numerous in the Derwent River that it was considered dangerous to cross in a small vessel because of the risk of being capsized. Learn how they were systematically hunted for their oil and bone during the 19th century. Declining numbers eventually put an end to the industry and whale numbers have slowly recovered. A replica whaling ship and tools of the trade are on display in the museum. Be sure to visit the shipbuilding exhibit to experience the sights, smell and sounds of what was one of Tasmania’s historically biggest industries.During the summer months climb aboard the oldest trading vessel in Australia. The May Queen, built in 1867, is a 21-metre (69-foot) long ketch made of Tasmanian blue gum, and was used to transport timber, coal, building materials and even loads of fruit to Hobart. It also raced in the Royal Hobart Regatta, coming first, second and third several times. The ship is visible from the waterfront, so even if you’re visiting in winter, you can check it out. The Maritime Museum of Tasmania is a short walk from the Metro city bus station and the central business district.
Maritime Museum of Tasmania Tours and Activities
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Reviewed on 27 Sep. 2021
Tours & day trips
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Adventure & outdoor
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Private & custom tours
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Classes & workshops
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Popular places to visit
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
Immerse yourself in the state’s history and art at these 19th-century waterfront buildings where collections include an exhibit on the fabled Tasmanian tiger.
Lark Distillery
Taste the purity of the Tasmanian landscape when you sample the world-class whisky produced by this boutique distillery on Hobart’s historic wharf.
Constitution Dock
History seeps from the stones on Hobart’s waterfront, where colonial buildings are now galleries and where you can eat fresh seafood and watch a famous yacht race.
Hobart Town Hall
After visiting Hobart Town Hall, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Hobart. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Franklin Wharf
You can take time to visit Franklin Wharf during your travels to Hobart. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Franklin Square
The heart of historic Hobart is a place to unwind, people watch and remember Tasmania’s colonial past.
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