Devonport sits at the mouth of the Mersey River, where the Spirit of Tasmania ferries arrive from Geelong. It also has an airport. Many visitors pass straight through, but the town is a handy base.
Things to do
- Mersey Bluff Lighthouse — a striking red-and-white striped lighthouse with coastal walks and Aboriginal rock carvings nearby.
- Bass Strait Maritime Centre — maritime history.
- The foreshore — walks along the river and coast.
- Sheffield — the Town of Murals, about 30 minutes inland, with views of Mount Roland.
Getting to Cradle Mountain
Cradle Mountain is about 1 hour 15 minutes from Devonport via Sheffield or Railton.
Practical info
Devonport has supermarkets, fuel, car hire and accommodation of all types.
Arriving on the Spirit of Tasmania
The ferry terminal is on the eastern side of the Mersey River. Day and night sailings operate at different times of year. On arrival, follow signs for biosecurity checks.
Nearby
Latrobe, a short drive away, has heritage buildings and platypus spotting at Warrawee Forest Reserve. Ulverstone and Penguin lie to the west along the coast.
Where to eat and stay
The town centre and the Mersey foreshore have cafes, pubs and restaurants. Accommodation ranges from motels and apartments to holiday parks, and many travellers stay their first or last night here to fit ferry times.
Before or after the Spirit
If you arrive on the morning sailing, pick up supplies in Devonport and head straight for Cradle Mountain or along the coast to Stanley. On departure day, spend the afternoon at the Mersey Bluff lighthouse area or the riverside before boarding.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Spirit of Tasmania dock?
In Devonport, on the Mersey River.
How far is Devonport from Cradle Mountain?
About 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Is there accommodation in Devonport?
Yes, from motels to apartments and holiday parks.
What is there to do in Devonport?
Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, coastal walks, the maritime museum and day trips to Sheffield and Cradle Mountain.
