Detailed
information
Relax on board the MV Southern Contessa and take
a leisurely river cruise down the Huon River to the
picturesque historic village of Franklin. Pass near
river bank vegetation, old houses and small jetties
with boats tied up while keeping an eye out for
pelicans, sandpipers and many other birds.
The two hour cruise heads south down the eastern
side of Egg Island, through a cutting in the island
then on to Franklin. The cruise then returns along
the western side of the Huon River giving
passengers a close look at the changing vegetation
and life on the river.
For coaches a variety of options are available
ranging from one way trips up or down the river to
return trips across Port Huon Estuary to a local
fish farm.
The Southern Contessa is also available for
charters on weekends and when not undertaking its
daily cruise.
Built out of fibreglass in 1984 the Southern
Contessa is approximately 60 feet long and weighs
around 24 tonnes. It is surveyed to carry 65
passengers, however, to maintain passenger comfort
and personalised service, numbers are generally
limited to 50 per cruise.
MARKET: F.I.T, Groups, Coach groups, School
groups
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Operating hours
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Office hours - 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
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Special charters
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Operate outside office hours
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Days
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Every day except Christmas Day
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Travelling distance /
time from Hobart
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40 km from Hobart via the Southern
Outlet freeway / Approximately 35 minutes
&endash; normal driving conditions.
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Departure times
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Monday to Friday - 10.00 am daily
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Departure point
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Huon Visitor Centre jetty
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Duration
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2 hours
Shorter cruises for groups or individuals
can be arranged.
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Style of ride
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Combination of relaxing cruising,
beautiful scenery and fish farming.
Morning tea provided on daily cruises.
Catering by arrangement for charters.
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Maximum/minimum number
of passengers
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Surveyed to carry 65 passengers. Daily
cruises between 48 &endash; 50 passengers.
No minimum number for daily cruises.
Charter fees by arrangement with a minimum
of 2 hours.
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Equipment
provided
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All safety equipment as required by
Marine and Safety Tasmania including life
jackets and life rafts.
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Use of cameras
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No restrictions
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Restrictions
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Passengers to keep to defined areas. No
smoking in enclosed areas.
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What you need to
bring
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Clothing suitable for the day plus a
warmer item
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Length
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Approximately 30 kilometres
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