Why River Derwent Will Spark Your Interest

Welcome to the captivating world of River Derwent. With its quaint charm and scenic beauty, it’s one destination that you cannot miss. This majestic river flows through the heart of Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, and is surrounded by stunning scenery and is home to many must-see attractions that are sure to leave you in awe. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the River Derwent has it all. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or hop aboard one of the Hobart dinner cruises and see the amazing sights from the water. Now, get ready to discover why River Derwent will spark your interest.

Cruising on River Derwent

What better way to explore the picturesque attractions of the river than to take a Hobart river cruise? Get together for a spectacular dining experience with your favourites out on the waters. Take in the mesmerising views of both the north and south end of the river. Feast your eyes to a number of beautiful areas including waterways like Storm Bay and D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Cruises also offer on board commentary as well. Here’s the best part! There's a high chance of spotting seals, dolphins and whales depending on the season.

The Sydney To Hobart Yacht Race

Well, it is a known fact that the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is a world renowned race in Australia. The highlight is that River Derwent is the finish line for this race that has been running for a good 70 years. Up to 100 yachts flag off from Sydney Harbour and brave the high seas, before they reach Hobart and cross the finish line at River Derwent. Thronging crowds head to various vantage points on the river banks to watch the exciting finish of the race.

Whale Watching at River Derwent

Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales, Blue Whales and Minke Whales can be spotted in the River Derwent estuary due to years of intense preservation efforts since the 1800s.

The Southern Right Whales use the serene waters as a spot to give birth to their young ones. They produce only one calf every three years and they reach a breeding age in about 10 years. Therefore to spot them is very special, as they are pretty low in number.

The Humpback Whales are the most common, they are very acrobatic, often leap out of the water, slapping and showing their tail before diving. As a mating call to their female counterparts, the Male humpbacks resort to their whale songs.

Hobart’s iconic MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)

Located along the Derwent River is Hobart’s iconic attraction MONA–The Museum of Old and New Art. This exceptional museum offers a permanent collection, “Monanism” and a regular calendar of temporary exhibits. The building, which is set on three floor undergrounds, is home to a unique collection that binds both modern and contemporary art. It’s the ideal destination for architecture, art and food lovers. It’s the perfect place to explore and find endless new things. Some of the attractions are moody underground galleries, Siloam–the mysterious tunnel extension to Pharos and Spectrum Chamber of rainbows. You can catch the sunrise or sunset in “God’s gazebo”. What’s more? There’s even live music most of the days, mostly over the summer.

A Little Trivia About River Derwent

It is known by the palawa kani (Tasmanian aboriginal) name “timtumili minanya”

River Derwent is the important source of water for irrigation and water supply in Hobart

It is also widely used for recreation, boating, recreational fishing, marine transportation and more

So, these were some points of interest and attractions of River Derwent. Do stop to explore this magnificent river valley on your travels in Hobart, Tasmania.