TasPort Tower

Architect: Phillp Lighton, Floyd & Beattie, Engineers: Johnston McGee & Gandy (1987)

Above Working Hobart

What can you see from 36 metres above Hobart’s working waterfront?

Step inside the Port Tower Building for a rare opportunity to see the River Derwent, Hobart and its busy port from the place where vessel movements are monitored and coordinated.

Towering above Hunter Street since 1987, the Port Tower was designed specifically for marine pilots, providing a clear vantage point over timtumili minanya/the River Derwent and the approaches to the Port of Hobart. Its elevated position and panoramic outlook are not simply about the view. They are essential to the building’s working purpose.

Look closely and you’ll discover a piece of practical 1980s architecture that has retained much of its original character. The building is shaped by what it needs to do, providing clear sightlines, functional workspaces and an elevated position above the waterfront.

For Open House Hobart, TasPorts is opening the doors to this normally restricted facility. Step inside and discover the people, technology and infrastructure behind one of Tasmania’s most important gateways, and hear how the Port of Hobart helps keep the island connected to the rest of the world.

Then look out.

From the tower, the familiar city takes on a different perspective. See the waterfront, kunanyi / Mount Wellington, the city and the sweep of timtumili minanya/the River Derwent from a vantage point few people get to experience.

Come and have a look behind the scenes, discover the architecture of a working port and see Hobart from above.

A rare view of a city at work.

Open: Sun 8 Nov, 1.00pm – 4.00pm

Note: Due to the limited capacity in the Port Tower, there may be a short wait for access.