Australia, port by port · Tasmania
Hobart and Tasmania
A first point of entry with a strict pilotage regime for foreign-registered yachts, and the gateway to Port Davey and the Southern Ocean.
Last reviewed 29 October 2026
ABF port of entryDAFF first point of entryPilotage over 35 mForeign yachts: MAST permission
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Entry status
Hobart and Launceston (Bell Bay) are on both the ABF and DAFF lists; Burnie and Devonport are ABF-only.
Pilotage
Compulsory over 35 m in all defined ports, with no recreational exemption (Pilotage and Navigation Regulations 2017, reg 26). Under reg 24 a vessel registered outside Australia gets none of the exemptions without MAST’s written permission, so a foreign yacht under 35 m may also need a pilot or permission. Defined ports include Hobart (zones A to C, including the D’Entrecasteaux Channel) and Port Davey/Bathurst Harbour. TasPorts pilotage exemption certificates (35 to 75 m, up to 12 passengers, 25 knots or less) need MAST’s written approval for a foreign-flag vessel and 72 hours’ notice for check trips.
Berths and refit
Constitution Dock for casual stays (booked within 7 days of arrival; bridge openings 09:00, 11:00, 14:00). TasPorts publishes superyacht lay-up charges per GRT per day (ex GST). Refit: Southern Marine Shiplift, Launceston (2,160 t, 60 m); TasPorts Queens Domain slipways; Richardson Devine Marine.
Port Davey and the south
A Parks and Wildlife Service permit is needed for vessels of 35 m or more and for commercial tours; 5 knot zones; no sewage in Bathurst Channel, Bathurst Harbour or James Kelly Basin; no bilge discharge; clean the hull first. Macquarie Island is a restricted area needing Parks permission plus Parks Australia permission for the marine park. Antarctic voyages organised by an Australian resident or agent may need Australian Antarctic Division approval; confirm at least 3 months ahead.
Sources: Tasmanian Pilotage and Navigation Regulations 2017 · TasPorts pilotage exemption · Port Davey boating
Tasmania rewards planning: MAST permissions, pilots and park permits take time, and we arrange them before you leave the mainland. ASY handles clearance and berthing here. Talk to us or email us.
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Condensed from Australian Superyacht Services’ Definitive Guide to bringing a foreign superyacht to Australia, researched against Commonwealth, state and port authority sources. Rules and fees change; where a point is unsettled we say so. General information, not legal advice. Reviewed 29 October 2026.
