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Bass & Flinders Maritime Museum
4.7
189 reviewsAbout
Inspiring the next generation of explorers!
Housings one of Tasmania’s most varied collections of maritime artifacts, the museum showcases the replica Sloop Norfolk, James Kelly's whaleboat the Elizabeth, and the Admiral, the Kenneth Dickenson, the Tamar Class Melanie, the sabot Zephyr 2, rowing fours, canoes, and a tribute to solo round the would quest by Ken Gourley.
The Bass and museum also feature an extensive collection of maps and charts, photographs, paintings, logbooks, movies, diaries, and journals.
In 1798, explorers Bass and Flinders were dispatched to Van Diemens Land to ascertain if it was an island or not. Sailing with a crew of eight aboard His Majesty's Colonial Sloop Norfolk, they took shelter in the Tamar River, anchoring off what is now George Town. Explore the tale of Bass and Flinders and Tasmania’s rich Maritime History at the Bass and Flinders Maritime Museum.
The modern-day Norfolk is a close replica of the original vessel which was built on Norfolk Island. Work on the construction of the replica began in 1994 and was carried out by a group of volunteers assisting the builder.
The replica Sloop Norfolk on display here at the Bass and Flinders Museum is built from three endemic Tasmanian timbers; Huon pine (planking), Celery Top pine (keel, frames, mast, and spars), and decorated with Blackwood.
To find out more come and visit us.
Hours
Closed now
Daily: 10:00–16:00
Facilities and visitor features
12 featuresCaters for people who use a wheelchair.
Nearby places
Reviews & Ratings
Peggy Jackson
Google review
We had the most incredible experience at the maritime museum in George Town – I genuinely can’t recommend it enough! From the moment we arrived, the volunteers made us feel so welcome. They were not only friendly, but incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, which made the whole visit so engaging and enjoyable. You can really tell how much they care about sharing the history and stories behind everything in the museum. A real highlight was being shown through the replica Norfolk by Craig. Chatting with him was such a privilege – hearing firsthand that he helped build the boat and then sailed it in 1998 made the experience feel so special and personal. It’s something we’ll remember for a long time. There is so much to see, from fascinating artefacts to beautiful artwork and unique bits and pieces – you could easily spend hours exploring. Even if you don’t know much about boats or maritime history, this place is absolutely worth visiting. It’s interesting, immersive, and full of stories. Honestly, I could have stayed all day. Such a fantastic experience – a must-visit if you’re in the area.
Santwana Raychaudhuri
Google review
It's a Fantastic museum. Wonderful narration attracted us to a tour of the ship peeping inside as well as around it. Being a sailer Man Ian was very much confident in each detail of his narration. We spent wonderful time in the museum. The Store also has many beautiful things to offer.
Peter D
Google review
Fantastic museum..certainly worth a visit..such enthusiastic guides and just wonderful exhibits..if you're interested in the!search and history you must go!
Monica Burgess
Google review
Would highly recommend visiting! I went on a spontaneous trip with my Dad and we absolutely loved it. Would highly recommend if you need to fill in some time or are in the area. I would absolutely go again. Our guide was so informative, she was so invested and really enthusiastic. She told us so much information we didn’t know and made it really enjoyable. I will be bringing some friends and family for sure. Thank you for a wonderful visit! 😇
Denis Snowden
Google review
What a maritime museum - absolutely outstanding- very friendly and informative guides. The history contained in this building is unbelievable. The various boats both original and replica’s on display is stunning. What those early Mariners/Sailors had at their disposal and what they managed to achieve is unbelievable. The replica of the Norfolk is an example of the passion of those who were involved with the building of the ship and those involved in her sailing. During our visit we were lucky enough to hear from one of the crew of the Norfolk who was on board during the 1998 sailing from the mainland to Tasmania. Highly recommend
Get in touch
Where you'll be
8 Elizabeth St
George Town TAS 7253