Tour of Tasmania: Hobart's waterfront

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Hobart has one of the finest deepwater ports in the world, and a waterfront to match. Historic buildings, including the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, line the waterfront. Salamanca Place known by mariners around the world as the place to "hang out" in 19th century Hobart, is now known for its craft shops and extremely popular Saturday market. Kelly's Steps, in Salamanca Place, lead to the suburb of Battery Point.

Near Hobart's Constitution Dock (below) it is possible to dine at a seafood restaurant or purchase your meal live from local fishermen. After Christmas every year, the dock is evacuated to make room for participants in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, arguably the finest blue-water ocean classic in the world.

Hobart's waterfront, 3.21Mb QuickTime movie.

To the northern end of the waterfront is the Gasworks Village, part of a recently renovated area of the city known as Wapping. There are craft shops and galleries, along with Australia's only commercial whiskey distillery. There are also several pubs lining the Hobart waterfront, including the historic Customs House Hotel.

Parliament House, Tasmania's seat of government, is located between the docks and Salamanca Place. Chambers are occasionally open for public viewing. Hobart's waterfront is only about three blocks (five minutes) walk from the centre of the city.