Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025

Visit a paradise for maritime culture and history enthusiasts at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival!

The first Australian Wooden Boat Festival held in November 1994 was a fantastic event organized by passionate devotees Cathy Hawkins, Ian Johnston, and Andy Gamlin. Over two days, it drew large crowds and featured a popular food section. Highlights included a stunning French frigate carrying a charming canoe from Isle de Pins (New Caledonia) and the HM Bark Endeavour Replica on its inaugural voyage from Perth, WA.

Under the azure summer sky, which perfectly complemented the 180 beautiful wooden boats in Constitution Dock, the festival was celebrated as an incredible success. Today, the festival is the most significant event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival boasts the world record for the largest collection of wooden boats in one place! Each year, it attracts over 600 remarkable wooden ships.

This four-day festival will take place from February 7 to 10 at the Hobart Waterfront. You're invited to experience its magic!

What to Expect When Attending Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025

You can immerse yourself in the splendor of the opening Parade of Sail and the captivating closing Admiral's Sail.

The festival features a stunning collection of wooden vessels, from historic tall ships and classic yachts to traditional fishing boats.

You'll see and attend exciting on-water displays, boat cruises, engaging symposiums, and cooking demonstrations. You'll also get to watch master boatbuilders at work, creating wooden boats using traditional methods. This is a great chance to learn about the craftsmanship and skills involved in building these beautiful vessels.

The festival tavern will also host theatre performances, film screenings, and live music. And let’s not forget the delicious Tasmanian food and drink! Families will love the dedicated kids' maritime precinct, with shaded areas and plenty of fun activities to entertain the little ones.

The weather is expected to feel like spring, with temperatures averaging between 14 C (57 F) and 21 C (70 F). Although the days are often warm and enjoyable, the evenings can be a bit cooler, so it's wise to pack some cozy layers. There’s a chance of rain too, so having a light waterproof jacket or an umbrella on hand is a smart choice.

Tickets

While some activities are free, such as walking around Hobart's vibrant and bustling waterfront to view the boats, many parts of the festival, including certain exhibitions, boat tours, and live performances, require a ticket. Check out those events and purchase your ticket.

Security Protocols

• Security personnel will be on-site to check bags at the entrance and keep everyone safe.
• Medical assistance will be available to anyone in need.
• Prohibited items include any dangerous objects and large bags or backpacks.

How to Get To or From the Event

You can reach the Hobart Waterfront by public transport or car:

• Bus: Public bus services run from various parts of Hobart to the waterfront. Check the local transport provider's schedules (Metro Tasmania) closer to your travel date.
• Car: If you’re driving, several car parks are available around the Hobart Waterfront. However, expect heavy traffic, especially during festival times. You should arrive early for the best parking options.

Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025 Bag Policy

Remember, large bags and backpacks aren't allowed, and there's no place to store them on the event grounds.

If you're traveling with luggage, Bounce is a great solution for you.

Bounce is the largest luggage storage network in the world, with more than 15,000 locations in 4,000+ cities worldwide. By partnering with local businesses around the world, Bounce empowers people to be free to explore wherever they are.

Discovering and reserving luggage storage is a breeze with the Bounce app or website! Simply drop off your bags and make the most of your day without heavy lifting.

Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Have a Great Time

Explore the Hobart area, pick a convenient location, and contact us!

The price for storing your bags in this city is only A$5.60 per day. We offer 24/7 support, and there's no cancellation fee.

How to Stow Your Bag at Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025 With Bounce

• Book us: Choose a location, contact a Bounce partner, and pay online.
• Head to the location: Bring your confirmation and arrive at the chosen place to store your luggage.
• Visit the festival: Have fun and enjoy the show!

How to Make the Most Out of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2025

• Check the schedule: Take a look at the schedule for all the exciting details on boat displays, inspiring workshops, thrilling races, and captivating performances. You won't want to miss highlights like the Parade of Sail!
• Enjoy local food and drinks: Savor Tasmanian cuisine at the festival's food stalls, including fresh seafood and local wines.
• Take photos: Capture the moments with your family and friends to have as a memory of this iconic festival.

The Australian Wooden Boat Festival will be spectacular! Pack your bags, come to Hobart, and store your luggage with Bounce!