the convict trail

We have said our farewells to Hobart and are making our slow way back up the coast. Actually at the moment we are still south of Hobart as we have to get right round the Tasman Peninsula first. There is a canal through the neck at the north end of the peninsular, but it is very shallow and has shifting sand bars and several people have advised us not to attempt it even though in theory it could be done at high tide.

Had a very pleasant evening at a fish restaurant in the old dock area with B & B before leaving, and took a very excited dog for a walk around - so many seagulls and good food smells.

Got as far as Port Arthur last night (43 09.060 and 147 51.269). It is one of the best known places in Tasmania as it is the site of the Van Diemen's Land penitentiary where thousands of Brits (25% Irish) spent years doing hard labour. Convict labour built beautiful solid stone buildings, all the stone being hand hewn locally. Bush fires have destroyed all the floors and roofs, but the walls remain and the setting is superb. A grassy hillside looking over the bay.

The weather was perfect this morning, sunny and still; and by the time it clouded over and a breeze came up we had seen enough, so set sail to go about 20 miles further round the coast. It is very impressive bit of coast line, huge towering cliffs and pinnacles of vertical strata. Lots of albatrosses gliding on the thermals - not good for sailing of course as we just get downdraughts which can be extremely gusty or the wind is completely cut off.

Tonight we are in a sheltered little bay in the Tasman National Park, so hope to walk part of the coastal trail tomorrow. Position 43 07.617 and 147 59.290.