Lady Nelson Tall Ship
ProHighlights
- Full-size replica of an early colonial brig, built locally in 1988
- Takes up to 36 guests on single-day charters around south-east Tasmania
- Guests can help set the square sails or take a turn on the helm
About Lady Nelson Tall Ship
The Lady Nelson is a two-masted, square-rigged tall ship based on the Hobart waterfront. Launched in 1988, she is a full-size replica of the colonial brig that carried early European settlers to the Derwent, and she is run by the Tasmanian Sail Training Association with a crew of trained volunteers. Private groups can charter the ship with crew for social and corporate functions, weddings, anniversaries and birthday parties. A charter can head out under sail on the Derwent, or stay alongside at the Elizabeth Street Pier berth as a waterfront function space. For single-day charters in most spots around south-east Tasmania the ship carries up to 36 people, and guests can either cater for themselves or have the crew organise food. There is plenty for guests to do on board. They can haul on lines, help set sails, ring the bell or steer under supervision, or simply settle in and watch the city slide past. Younger crews have their own option too: pirate-themed sails suit groups of children aged roughly six to ten, whether a school group, cubs or a birthday party. A historian can be added to a heritage-themed charter for an extra cost, and very large groups can ask about pairing the Lady Nelson with a second tall ship. Charters are priced by length, and summer and special-event dates can attract a loading of around 20%. Because the ship is volunteer-run, the money raised from charters goes towards maintaining the vessel and its youth and school programs.
Inclusions & amenities
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Frequently asked questions
How many guests can the Lady Nelson take on a charter?
For single-day charters in most locations around south-east Tasmania the ship carries up to 36 people. Longer overnight voyages are limited to 10 passengers because guests sleep on board.
Can we bring our own food on a Lady Nelson charter?
Yes. Charter groups can self-cater, or the crew can arrange catering for the occasion. Celebrations held on board have been run both ways over the years.
Does the ship have to leave the pier for a function?
No. Besides sailing charters, the Lady Nelson can be hired as a non-sailing function space alongside its Elizabeth Street Pier berth, charged by the hour, for birthdays, parties and corporate functions.
Is there an option for a children's birthday party?
Yes. Pirate sails are offered for young groups, with dress-ups and a sail on the Derwent. The crew say these suit children aged around six to ten.
Are toilets available on board the Lady Nelson?
There are toilets below deck, reached down a short, steep stair that works much like a ladder. Guests with mobility concerns are asked to talk to the office before booking so the crew can advise.
Suitable occasions
Zoe Xue
a week ago
The 90mins sailing was a great experience. The volunteer crews are very friendly and knowledgeable. I learnt many things about the ship, sailing and the team from them. Great to see them also training people of all ages…
Anita Pava
3 months ago
A fabulous afternoon out on the Derwent River in Hobart. We booked for my Father's 80th birthday and he had a wonderful time. Crew and Captain were friendly and considerate, and it was a wonderful experience.
Mary Phillips
5 months ago
A beautiful ship and the volunteers were extremely knowledgeable. It was a lovely way to spend 90 minutes on the river!
Lee Davison
8 months ago
We did the harbour cruise, amazing experience, highly recommend, the history of the original Lady Nelson and the replica are fascinating. The crew informative and are genuine about their passion.
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