Weatherwise, it did get very windy last night and the ship was rocking a bit but nothing too drastic. It was still breezy this morning and very chilly too. Our morning started with breakfast in Horizon Court (buffet) which was a test to compare it with the MDR experience of yesterday. The MDR wasn’t the best place for Nicole to eat a vegan breakfast so we decided to give the alternative a go which was a big improvement, if we get there early enough it’s going to be the place to get breakfast.
The last time we were in Hobart, we hired a car and visited Mount Field National Park, and drove up to the top of Mount Wellington. This time we decided to do one of the things we considered last time and visit Port Arthur. To do this we booked with a local company called Tours Tasmania who provided a driver some really useful information about each stop but didn’t escort us around them.
We were quickly off the ship as soon as clearance was given with a 10 minute walk to our rendezvous point. To our surprise, there was only us and another couple so an early result.
Our drive to the Tasman Peninsula took about an hour and 20 minutes and our first stop was Tasmanian Devil Unzoo to see some of the unique local wildlife. It’s only a small place but you can get up close to the animals and even feed some of them. The highlight was seeing the feeding of the Tasmanian Devils who won us both over.
Amazing little creatures that are on the endangered list but this little unzoo is breeding them and releasing them back into the wild when they are old enough.
Our next stop was the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur.
We enjoyed approximately 2.5 hours exploring this open-air museum. We walked around the main penitentiary, solitary confinement cells, and thoroughly enjoyed the stunning surroundings. There are over 30 historic buildings and ruins, some of which have been restored.
Part of the entrance fee included a complimentary Harbour Cruise around the Isle of the Dead, the onboard commentary provided some really great information about the site. We have visited a few stunning places now that have had a really dark history, this one is no exception.
On the way back to Hobart, we took a brief detour to view the Tasman National Park Lookout, which provided a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape along the coast. There really is some stunning scenery along this peninsula.
It was quite a busy day today and our driver, come guide was a good listen as he drove us to, from and around the sites. After being dropped off at the CBD, we walked back to the cruise terminal and went straight to the buffet for a quick bite to eat and a very welcome beer.
Sea day tomorrow so it will be less hectic.
Fitbit Steps 16,694
What an interesting place to visit and record the event. If you’re still into Aussie prisons there’s an excellent one to visit in Fremantle.
YEAH! A sea day. A chance to rest up. Loved those little devils. You certainly got a lot done in one day on land.
Great photos.