We’ve been immersed in nature but after Christmas an exciting event brought us to the Hobart waterfront bang in the middle of the city. We were camped in the Margate Hills 25 minutes south of the CBD. Instead of leisurely mornings at the campsite, it was now all about getting there early enough to get a parking spot.
It took a bit of getting used to: driving down the A6 into town, towards people, towards action. On our first morning on 26 December all carparks were full already. Then we found Argyle Street carpark. An old concrete council carpark with low beams (so low our aerial hit the ceiling) and maddening traffic up and down the worn-out ramps. It became our city base. Just a few steps down Argyle Street towards the harbour: the best bakery in Tasmania (Pigeon Whole Bakers, we became devotees fast), the best secondhand store for ladies clothes (Goodbyes), TMAG (Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery), and then Constitution Dock!
The sailing weather was great and the super maxis were on their way for an early finish. Andoo Comanche was expected to cross the line first in the early morning of the following day. It was hot in Hobart; we stumbled around like country folk not used to the city and had very expensive coffees and croissants at a touristy coffee shop at Salamanca Markets.
Next morning when we arrived at the dock, the first few maxi yachts had arrived with Andoo Comanche the first to cross the line. But the weather changed dramatically. The middle-sized yachts would have to battle it out against a storm.
The place was buzzing with energy. One yacht after the other arrived – some with torn sails. All received a warm welcome. Eager viewers were lined up at the quays, clapping and cheering. Happy, tired, elated sailing crews stood on their boats as they came in glad that the ordeal was over and ready to celebrate their arrival – no matter which place they had made in the race.
Several people had told us that we could go up to a boat and chat with the crew. We gave it a go and boy, were they ready to talk! Hundreds of yachts had entered the race, so the arrival continued for a few more days. The last boat made it across the finish line on New Year’s eve just in time for the fireworks.
Liz Mike Travels 