Entering the Tamar River from the sea gives you a sense of what enticed the first Europeans to weigh anchor here in 1798: a fertile river mouth with gently sloping hills, soft beaches, and excellent fishing.

The estuary was known by Aboriginals as Ponrabbel, but was re-namedDalrymple, and later the Tamar (after the river which divides Cornwall and Devon in England). At 58 kilometres, it is Australia’s longest navigable tidal estuary, varying in width from 250 metres to four kilometers (Tamar River Cruises glide up the river daily).

The Tamar River Estuary meets the sea near the current Low Head Historic precinct: it’s one of the best coldwater marine environments in the world, and, with 3 metre tidal variations, is one of Tasmania’s most rewarding dive spots. Two surfing beaches are nearby, at Bell Buoy and East Beach, plus a series of point breaks including “Cow Head’ at Five Mile Bluff and “Tam O’Shanter” (voted one of the best in the state).

It’s no surprise the Tamar has the oldest yacht club in Australia. The Tamar Yacht Club, located at the head of the river in Launceston, held its first Regatta in 1837 and has had a continuous history from 1879. The Club also has a modern marina and sailing facilities closer to Bass Strait at Beauty Point.

The serenity of the Tamar is a haven for waterbirds, and a visit to the Tamar Island Wetlands Centre will introduce you to their diversity. Stroll the boardwalks onto Tamar Island and see 20 to 30 regular species of birds (from the great white egret to sea eagles and pelicans) all in their natural habitat.