We crossed the strait on the overnight (6pm - 8:30 am) "Spirit of Tasmania". The daylight crossing on the Devil Cat, we understand costs more for vehicles, and was too "iffy" for us as once the waves exceed a certain height the crossing is cancelled. You are then "fitted-in" wherever they can, which can wreck any tight plans or bookings you might have made. The seas were very smooth going across, but there was a heavy swell coming back. The ship however is very stable and both voyages were most enjoyable. The passage fare includes dinner and breakfast, both of which are self service with ample opportunity to "pig out" if that is your want (the food was great in quality, quantity and variety)! Pets were carried in "pet friendly" containers in what appeared to be a special part of the ship. We watched them load a trailer full of these containers, and there did not appear to be any distressed howls or meows coming from it! When we were in Tassie there was a report on the radio saying TT Lines were considering replacing the Spirit with two smaller ships which together would provide a daily daytime crossing.

Don't take any fruit or vegetables with you. On arrival in Devonport, you, your car and your van will be "attacked" by gorgeous Beagle sniffer dogs!

We had been told by other A'vanners that the standard of caravan parks in Tasmania was generally not as high as on the mainland (or the "other" island as Taswegians call it). The parks we stayed at were those recommended by the "natives", and we were more than happy with the location and facilities offered. We had toured Tasmania by car (staying at guest houses) 8 years ago and had done the "touristy" things so this time concentrated on those areas we had not seen or wanted to see again. In the remoter areas, caravan parks are a bit thin on the ground and accommodation in them is limited, so we do suggest you phone ahead to book a site a day or so before arriving particularly if travelling during school holidays. On the subject of caravan parks, the "Tourist Park Accommodation Guide" put out by the NRMA (was free but now $5.50 - further "benefit" of de-mutualisation) is a must. Also, the RAC Tasmania map available from the NRMA (free) is excellent and was sufficiently detailed for all our touring needs.

Our first stop was at the "Cradle Mountain Tourist Park" in Cradle Valley. Accommodation is limited so suggest you book ahead. Sites are "nooks and crannies" in the bush which provide good privacy. There is a terrific communal "shelter" and a large camp kitchen - both with open log fires, even in February! This van park is ideally located for hiking in the northern parts of the Cradle Mountain Lake Clair National Park. In the 8 years since our previous visit, the Parks people have done a terrific job in making the wilder areas more accessible.

Next stopover was at Dover Beachside Holiday Park. Dover itself we thought a bit drab but the van park was fine and a good base for exploring the local area. Don't miss the new Tahune Airwalk which takes you for what seems like kilometers, high up over the huge tree tops. If you are into day hiking, take the Arve Road Forest Drive to the Arve River Picnic Area then walk to Hartz Peak (1255 metres). On a clear day you can see over seven sets of ranges, well into the South West National Park. A little less strenuous but just as enjoyable are the Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs. Tasmanian Parks again have done a fantastic job in upgrading these areas.

I've bored you enough - go see it for yourselves!