Historically, maritime trade was key to the Tasmanian economy.

Exporting whale oil, lumber, wool, wheat, and agricultural produce including potatoes and apples enable the Van Diemen’s Land colony to flourish in the nineteenth century.

Ships leaving Tasmanian ports to cross the Bass Strait, loaded with goods for buyers on the mainland and internationally, was a daily occurrence.

Trade is still a key part of the Tasmanian economy, and we export approximately half of the material produced in the state.

Shipbuilders, sailors, and vessels make this possible, and you can learn more about their contribution at the Maritime Museum Tasmania.