What landmarks and monuments can’t you miss in Devonport?
Spirit of the Sea
Overlooking the mouth of the Mersey River, the Spirit of the Sea is a striking five-metre high statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. Cast from bronze, the 700kg statue is illuminated after dark, welcoming those arriving in Devonport by boat. Just a short walk from the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, the sculpture is best appreciated up close, where you can spot smaller details such as carefully sculpted shells and barnacles.
Mersey Bluff Lighthouse
Established in 1889, the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse is one of Devonport’s best known landmarks. Overlooking the Bass Strait, it’s the lighthouse’s unique vertical red and white stripes that set it apart. Although you may not be able to tour the interior of the lighthouse at this point in time, the spectacular ocean views offered by the surrounding Mersey Bluff make it well worth a visit following your cheap flights to Devonport. Be sure to spend some time soaking up the beautiful coastal scenery, keeping an eye out for the Spirit of Tasmania as it arrives and departs from the city, passing by the lighthouse.
What are the top travel tips for first-time travellers to Devonport?
Devonport Airport is located approximately 8 kilometres from Devonport’s CBD. To get from Devonport Airport to the city centre after your flights to Devonport, you’ll either need to catch a taxi or hire a car. The taxi fare from the airport to Devonport will set you back approximately $20 one way. Several car hire providers can be found at the airport, making hiring a car a good choice if you intend to explore the region surrounding the city or are wanting to set out on a road trip around Tasmania. To ensure you don’t miss out on the hire car of your choice, especially during the peak tourist season from December to February, be sure to secure your car rental when booking your return flights to Devonport.
Devonport’s city centre is quite easy to navigate on foot. If you’re planning to stay in central Devonport, pack a pair of good walking shoes and enjoy the opportunity to explore the city and its top attractions at your own pace.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options available in Devonport, allowing you to find a room to match your holiday budget. From hotels and serviced apartments to budget-friendly hostels, there are plenty of great rooms available. If your return flights to Devonport are due to arrive on a weekend or during the city’s peak tourist season, which runs from December to February, be sure to book your accommodation as early as possible. As Devonport is a port of call for the Spirit of Tasmania, rooms can be in high demand at these times.
What are the major events and festivals held in Devonport?
Devonport Jazz
Held annually on the last weekend of July, Devonport Jazz is a four day festival that celebrates all things jazz. Attracting artists from across Tasmania, Australia and the globe, the festival features an impressive lineup of performances and events held at venues throughout Devonport and its surrounds. Previous festivals have attracted the likes of James Morrison, Kate Cebrano, Graeme Bell and Don Burrows, with the next festival lineup likely to be better than the last. If you love live jazz and want to see more of what makes Devonport so special, plan your flights to Devonport to arrive in time for the festival.
Devonport Food and Wine Festival
One of the region’s most popular events, the Devonport Food and Wine Festival is held throughout October, showcasing the produce of Tasmania’s north west coast. From local wines and cheeses to freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, chocolates and artisanal produce, this corner of Tasmania offers plenty of delicious foods to sample and celebrate. Although the festival program does vary from year to year, you can expect an assortment of cooking demonstrations, workshops, masterclasses, and events perfect for the whole family. Be sure to book your airfares to Devonport to coincide with the festival if you’re wanting to see why the locals think the region’s food and wine scene is worth exploring.
Christmas in Devonport
Throughout December, Devonport plays host to an exciting lineup of Christmas-themed events, making it easy to get into the festive spirit if your flights to Devonport are booked for this time of the year. The celebrations begin with the Devonport Christmas Parade, which sees floats from local schools, businesses and community groups make their way through the town. The night typically features a visit from Santa, with the town’s annual Christmas Market also held on the same day. Later in the month, Devonport’s Carols by Candlelight sees the community come together to enjoy performances by local choirs, vocal groups and bands, while the annual Breakfast in the Park, held by the Rotary Club of Devonport, sees friends and families come together to enjoy a bite to eat and plenty of family-friendly fun.
