Bass Strait Maritime Museum

07/09/2026

It all started with a princess... 👑⚓

The Princess of Tasmania was built in Newcastle for ANL at a cost of £2 million pounds.

On her journey to Devonport, the ship was escorted by the warship HMAS Quiberon.

There are also rumours that, during the journey through the night, HMAS Quiberon used the Princess of Tasmania to conduct torpedo drills!

The Princess of Tasmania carried 334 passengers and approximately 100 vehicles, with a crew of 67.

She was the first in the line of what we now know as Ro-Ro ferries, marking the beginning of a new era in Bass Strait travel. ⚓

She served Tasmania until 1972...

Who can name the ship that replaced her? 🤔⚓

06/09/2026

⚓ HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! ⚓

To all the amazing dads, fathers, grandfathers and father figures — thank you for being our anchor, our guide and our safe harbour.

We hope you have a wonderful day surrounded by family and loved ones.

Happy Father’s Day! ⚓❤️

05/09/2026

Does this look familiar? 👀

Here’s a clue… we’re now up to numbers 4 and 5 — but remember, it all had to start with 0! 😉

Any guesses what we’re talking about? ⚓

05/09/2026

05/09/2026

We are proud to announce a special item in our Teddy Sheean VC display — a replica of his Victoria Cross medal.

This replica will help visitors better understand and appreciate the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of Ordinary Seaman Edward “Teddy” Sheean VC. ⚓🇦🇺

We look forward to sharing this important piece of history with our visitors.

04/09/2026

I think we will need to update our wall very soon! 👀

With the arrival of the new Bass Strait ferries, it looks like we’ll need to make room for another picture! 🚢⚓

04/09/2026

Trying to track down a sailor in the family? Looking for information about a particular ship, passenger or voyage?

You might be surprised by what can be found in the Maritime Museum’s collection!

We regularly hear from people researching family histories and Tasmania’s maritime past, and our library volunteers can help search the records and archives held in our collection. Researchers can also arrange to consult collection objects and archival material by appointment.

Research enquiries can be sent to [email protected] with your contact details and as much information as you have about what you’re looking for.

Find out more: https://www.maritimetas.org/heritage/research

22/08/2026

📣 A HUGE SHOUT-OUT TO OUR AMAZING VOLUNTEERS PAST AND PRESENT ⚓💙

Our museum simply wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible people who give their time, skills and passion to help keep our maritime history alive.

From welcoming visitors and sharing stories, to caring for our collections, working behind the scenes and helping with special events — every contribution makes a difference.

👏 Thank you to each and every one of our volunteers for everything you do for the North West Coast’s Premier Maritime Museum.

We truly couldn’t do it without you! ❤️⚓

Thank you, volunteers! 🙌

22/08/2026

As part of the Bicentenary weekend of activities, the tall ship, Julie Burgess, will be in port with thanks to the support and sponsorship by TasPorts. Two hour tours available Saturday 31st October and Sunday 1st November, 10am and 2pm. Cost $80 + Booking Fee.
Tickets are on sale now
https://events.humanitix.com/julie-burgess-stanley-sailings
For the itinerary of the weekend's activities
https://stanleyandtarkine.com.au/stanley-bicentenary/

22/08/2026

⚓️ Our Local Navy Room at Bass Strait Maritime Museum ⚓️

A wonderful part of the Bass Strait Maritime Museum, our local Navy Room is a place where friendships are made, stories are shared, and the service and sacrifice of our Navy personnel are remembered and honoured.

It’s a special space celebrating our naval history and the people who have served, while bringing our local community together.

Come along, discover the stories, and experience a little piece of our maritime heritage. 🇦🇺⚓️