The story of Devonport is an important chapter in the story of Bass Strait. Since the 1850’s, Devonport has been a major port providing connection between the island and mainland Australia and the Strait has always presented challenges to those steering a course through or across the waters.
For Tasmania, the Bass Strait is like a double-edged sword. It isolates the island, making it relatively more expensive to travel here, but it also insulates the island, creating a barrier for a clean and healthy environment.
Embracing Nature’s Wonders
The Bass Strait weather is renowned for its dynamic patterns. With strong winds and sudden storms adding an element of thrill to any voyage.
For some, Bass Strait is an inconvenient channel separating Tasmania from the mainland, to be crossed as quickly as possible, usually by air in less than an hour.
For those who to sail into it, Bass Strait can be a challenging stretch of water that can test mind, body, and spirit. As English navigator Matthew Flinders discovered whilst crossing it with his friend and colleague, surgeon-explorer George Bass, for whom the strait was named, in 1798.
Despite its challenges, families can marvel at the natural beauty of the strait while learning about its rich maritime history.
Family Time at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre
Located at 6 Gloucester Avenue, Devonport, the Bass Strait Maritime Centre is a museum and historic home rolled into one. With captivating additions including one of the best shipping simulators in Australia, and an exhibition space that delivers a fresh new experience every time you visit.
Here you’ll find the histories of Bass Strait, and the City Devonport in one place. Where you’ll immerse yourself in our superb collection of shipbuilder’s models and explore local history via rare exhibits and tales of daring and resilience.
- Maritime Museum – featuring Bass Strait and local history collections.
- Captain’s Wheel- test your skills on one of the best shipping simulators in Australia.
- Public Programs – exhibitions, specialist talks, workshops and learning activities.
- Gift Shop – quality Tasmanian and maritime gifts, science kits, toys, and souvenirs.
- Marion Storm Café – Offering a delicious coastal menu and the best coffee in town! (This is an independent business, not managed by the Museum or the Devonport City Council). For Café bookings: please call 0422 284 77.
Exhibit Collections
The story of Devonport is entwined with the story of the Bass Strait and at times our port city has played a central role in Tasmania’s maritime history. The Bass Strait Maritime Centre Collection and exhibitions reflect that connection with the following themes:
Local history – The story of Torquay and Formby, two towns amalgamating to become Devonport in 1890; from the pioneers such as the Cocker, Fenton, Holyman and Henry families and their influence on the emergence of Devonport as the key port on the North-West coast in the early 1900s to modern day Devonport.
Maritime History – Devonport’s apogee as a maritime centre was between 1880 and 1930, at the time when steamships were replacing sailing ships. Devonport’s shipbuilders were building the largest steamships in the state. Pioneers such as the Wood, Holyman, Griffiths and Burgess families shaped the foundations of Devonport’s rich maritime heritage.
Naval History – The story of local hero Teddy Sheean, a farm labourer from Latrobe who served on the HMAS Armidale, is the focal point for the naval stories and memorabilia exhibited.
Geographic region/Historical period
The Bass Strait Maritime Centre artefacts, stories, and research materials for the geographic region bound by the township of Don in the West to Port Sorell in the East and Latrobe in the South, range from the early 1800s to the current day.
Opening Hours
The museum is open seven days a week and only closed on Boxing Day, Christmas Day and Good Friday.
- Monday to Friday: 10am – 3pm
- Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays: 10am – 3pm
Admission Prices
(Don’t forget to use the LetsGoKids Voucher!!)
- Adult: $10 AUD
- Child (ages 4-16): $5 AUD
- Student/Concession: $8 AUD
- Family (2 adults and up to 6 children): $25 AUD
Special discounted rates are available for groups of 10+ or more, please go to https://www.bassstraitmaritimecentre.com.au/about/groups/.
