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Sullivans Cove: Hobart's Historic Waterfront

Explore Hobart's historic heart: Sullivans Cove, where history meets vibrant waterfront life on the River Derwent.

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Sullivans Cove, the heart of Hobart, Tasmania, is where Lieutenant Governor David Collins established a settlement in 1804. Today, it's a vibrant harborfront with restaurants, galleries, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into Hobart's past and present.

A brief summary to Sullivans Cove

  • Hobart, Tasmania, AU

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the atmosphere and admire the historic buildings.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor.
  • Visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) to learn more about the region's history and culture.
  • Consider a ferry trip to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) for a unique cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Hobart CBD, Sullivans Cove is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the waterfront and follow the signs to the harbor. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from the center of town.

  • Public Transport

    Many bus routes service the Hobart waterfront area. Check the Metro Tasmania website for the most up-to-date routes and timetables. Alight at a stop near the Elizabeth Street Pier or Brooke Street Pier for easy access to Sullivans Cove. A single bus fare within the city is approximately $3.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Hobart. A short taxi ride from the CBD to Sullivans Cove will cost approximately $6 - $9. Taxi ranks are located near major hotels and attractions.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the vicinity of Sullivans Cove, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. There are several parking garages and metered street parking options. Expect to pay around $4 - $6 per hour for parking.

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Discover more about Sullivans Cove

Sullivans Cove, located on the River Derwent, marks the birthplace of Hobart and has served as its main stage for over 200 years. For thousands of years, this area was the traditional land of the muwinina Tasmanian Aboriginal people. In 1804, Lieutenant Governor David Collins recognized the cove's potential as a safe harbor for a new colony. Sullivans Cove quickly transformed into a bustling waterfront, lined with wharves, streets, houses, and factories. The air was filled with the sounds of industry, from flour mills and fruit canneries to whaling ships and the voices of countless workers. It became a melting pot, attracting people from diverse backgrounds seeking opportunity or a fresh start in Van Diemen's Land. Today, Sullivans Cove retains its historical charm while embracing modern life. Stone warehouses stand alongside contemporary buildings, housing restaurants, galleries, and shops. Visitors can explore the area's rich history, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant waterfront. Ferries depart from here, offering access to MONA and other destinations. Sullivans Cove is also home to the renowned Sullivans Cove Distillery, established in 1994. The distillery has garnered international acclaim for its single malt whisky, winning multiple awards and putting Tasmanian whisky on the world map. While the distillery itself is now located in Cambridge, a suburb near the Hobart Airport, Sullivans Cove's legacy remains intertwined with Hobart's waterfront.

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