Tasmania Day One

We had three days in Hobart, Tasmania—three days Ellie had planned down to the details. She’d even rented a 12‑person van for us so we could get around easily and see as much as possible.

Then cruise-ship life intervened.

An illness going around onboard, plus unexpected symptoms, meant Ellie had to miss the entire Tasmania visit. I offered to stay back with her, but she wouldn’t hear of it. She insisted I go with our friends, enjoy the time, and bring her back the stories (and photos). So that’s what I did—still feeling a little strange heading out without the person who made the whole plan happen. Not to mention my first outing without my new bride.

We piled into the van Ellie had rented, and Lyn took the wheel. Lyn is one of those drivers who’s clearly done this before—confident, quick, and focused. She drove fast, but in a way that made you feel like we were in capable hands. We got where we needed to go without any of the usual “Are we on the right road?” uncertainty.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Our first stop was the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, and it was an easy place to settle into the day. The gardens are beautifully maintained, and I loved seeing the mix of local ferns and endemic species—plants that feel like they *belong* to Tasmania.

The flowers were gorgeous, but the most photogenic area (at least for me) was the Japanese garden. Every angle felt composed: clean lines, layered textures, and that calm, intentional design that makes you slow down and look longer. I took far more photos there than I expected.

We’d hoped to head to Wellington Park, but the weather had other ideas. The park was closed due to conditions, which was disappointing—but we didn’t waste the day.

Instead, we drove to the Mt. Nelson overlook, and it ended up being a great substitute. From up there we could see Hobart spread out below, and best of all, we could spot our ship sitting in the harbor. It was one of those moments that makes you pause—especially knowing Ellie was back onboard resting while we were out exploring. I made sure to get a few photos to show her later.

We headed back into Hobart for dinner at the Prince of Wales Hotel, and the timing couldn’t have been better: Monday night is their steak special night. For $20 AUD (about $13.75 USD), I had a ribeye that felt like the perfect end to a full day—simple, satisfying, and a surprisingly good deal.

Tomorrow’s plan is Bruny Island—assuming everything lines up. For now, I’m grateful we made the most of Day 1, and I’m especially grateful to Ellie for pushing me out the door and insisting I enjoy Tasmania even if she couldn’t.

More to come.