Maritime Museum of Tasmania

If you have an interest in maritime history, then the Maritime Museum of Tasmania is a great place to spend an hour. Located next to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and opposite Constitution dock it is easy to get to.

During our visit, the second floor was undergoing renovations, which meant we missed some displays. The remaining area was still interesting as it covered Tasmania’s maritime history.

One of the more interesting displays was a model of the Tasman Bridge disaster. This occurred on 5 January 1975 when a bulk ore carrier collided with bridge pylons, causing a section of the bridge to collapse. Seven crew and five drivers from four cars were killed when they drove off the bridge and fell 45m to the water below. The model shows the SS Lake Illawarra lying on the river bottom with bridge debris covering her.

Tasmania’s contribution to Antarctic exploration has been significant, due to its proximity. A model of the exploration ship Nella Dan commemorates these achievements.

Other displays included interesting figureheads and boats, along with more models ships and photos.