First Day

We travelled overnight from Melbourne to Devonport on the Spirit of Tasmania I. Our departure was delayed by about an hour, and we finally left Port Melbourne at around 9.30.

The trip over was relatively smooth. We had a cabin, and so after a late dinner (and a few drinks in the bar!) we turned in. There were some roughish seas as we came through the heads, but nothing too "unsettling!!" Neither of us had to resort to travel sickness pills :)

We were due in to Devonport at 6.45 this morning, and so we woke early to be ready and to see our approach to the port. It was so windy on the starboard side of the boat that I couldn't hold the camera still enough for photos, but Gavan got some video which we will post later. I got a few pictures from the port side, which was more sheltered.

Once we left the boat, we went back across the Mersey River into the town centre for breakfast, before driving down to Hobart.

It was a 270-odd km trip through the centre of Tasmania from Devonport to Hobart, but it's a straightforward drive and so it didn't take too long. We were surprised after all the rain that we have had on the mainland this summer, to find that the countryside still looks very dry in Tasmania. Speaking to a local in Hobart, we were told that although it has been a cool summer, they have not had a lot of rain. They are preparing themselves for a very cold winter.

We got to Hobart in time for lunch, and took a stroll through the Salamanca Market. This was one of my "must see" places for this trip, and Saturday was the only option for it! It didn't disappoint. Loved the laid back, country feel of the market. Plus, of course, all the lovely goods for sale!! Salamanca Place, where the market is held is a fascinating street. A quick Google search informed us that the buildings along the street are Georgian, and were originally warehouses.

Later in the afternoon, we crossed the Tasman Bridge and headed to our accommodation at Seven Mile Beach. It's been a fairly tiring day so it's time for some quiet book time I think.