Hobart ......

Although we were promised an overcast day, we disembarked to a clear brisk morning.  The disembarkation process was much smoother than in Melbourne and we found the Thrifty depot with no problems. Michelle at Thrifty was a Maori lass from up north and we got an upgrade, although I think it was more for their benefit!

Unfortunately as we were so early, our friends Val & Max from Noosa were waiting for us at the wharf.  Once text contact was made we were soon on our way with Max the Tour Director & Navigator.  First stop was for coffee & muffins (free muffins for seniors) at Sorell, which Max was pleased to note also had a 'dump station' - not that we needed to know that :-)

Apart following the slowest Toyota in Australia, we had an easy drive to Port Arthur, after also stopping off at the blowhole at Eaglehawk Neck - most impressive sight.  We were fortunate to arrive at Port Arthur before midday and the rush of visitors.  They even accepted the Gold Card, even though the sign stated Australian card only.  As funny as it may sound but the grounds are really lovely, despite both early and more recent history at the site.  The 40 minute lecture in the midday sun was frankly a disappointment, but we did glean some interesting insights. A cruise around the bay and little islands was fascinating, when it was pointed out that one of the islands was a juvenile facility for children transported to Australia at an age as low as 9.

After lunch it was all too soon to leave for the journey back to Hobart, about 1.5 hours.  Val & Max then had another 3 hour drive, retracing some of our journey - thanks to you both for your friendship and company.  Omitted to mention that while Max & I were doing the hard work up front, the women were doing 10 months of catch-up.

We drove through the area devastated by the recent bush fires and in particular around the Dunalley area.  So sad to see the devastation and the randomness of the fires.  House upon house reduced to brick chimney, yet in the middle a house and grounds completely untouched.  The school was completely destroyed, but a new school and grounds upland running after 3 weeks. Teams of fencers etc. out and about - a great spirit in the area.

The next couple of days were on the Tasman Sea and it pretty well lived up to it's reputation with clouds, wind and a large swell.  Gentle really, but made both navigating the decks and dancing a little 'interesting'.  Today (Friday) we set the alarm for 6.00 so we could be on deck for Milford Sound.  It was raining, but stopped after half an hour and we had some spectacular views.   We were particularly impressed at how they turned the ship around so we could exit.  The rest of the day has been spent in the Fiords answer visited 4 of them, the last being Dusky Sound. Looking forward to going around Foveaux Straight tonight and all set for Dunedin, where they have free WiFi.

Port Arthur - Murray with Max & Val

Port Arthur

Devastation from the fires

Milford Sound