BY THE SEA IN TASMANIA'S NORTH WEST
THE LOCATION
Stanley is a small seaside township located on Tasmania’s northwest coast. The romantic town now draws visitors thanks to its well known remarkable, geological volcanic plug and its incredibly preserved colonial buildings.
The closest big city to Stanley is Devonport (1.5 hours drive – where the Spirit of Tasmania ferry docks), whilst Launceston is 225 kilometres away and nearly 3 hours drive.
THE HOTEL
The Ship Inn Stanley is a boutique hotel, lovingly restored by owners Alastair and Kerry Houston.
The unmistakable sunflower yellow building houses 9 suites / apartments, each purposefully named and each with a story to tell.
Almost all the suites and apartments are reached via stairs and there is no elevator. If mobility access is required, contact The Ship Inn directly so they can advise the best accommodation option for you.
Positioned at the base of The Nut on the edge of town, The Ship Inn is ideally located in town and within walking distance to the main strip of restaurants, cafes and attractions.
We stayed in the Greenhills Suite, a Queen suite tucked away on the first floor. Climbing the old timber staircase, the room feels a tad poky at first given the slanted ceiling, but the earthly corner quickly wins you over with the breathtaking vista across the bay through the dormer windows. The queen bed, two velvet green armchairs, kitchenette and writing desk fit somewhat perfectly, the decor honouring the hardships endured by Tasmania’s early settlers who arrived in the 1800s.
It’s a quaint spot for two people and we found the room comfortable with everything that we needed for a short stay in Stanley. If you can manage to pack enough for the two of you in one suitcase, you may find this helpful given the limited room space.
PLANNING A NORTH WEST TASMANIAN ROAD TRIP?
CHECK OUT OUR BRIEF GUIDE TO STANLEY
THE AMENITIES & THE FACILITIES
Each suite includes a kitchenette (a full kitchen in the apartments), ensuites with walk-in showers, sitting chairs and Salus toiletries. Whilst each suite is unique, they all boast incredible interior design details paying homage to Tasmanian history and the colourful characters from a bygone era. Historical artefacts, original artwork and bespoke fittings seamlessly intertwine with modern rich linens, sumptuous pillows and of course, Wi-Fi access.
The guest lounge is the place to unearth tales of merchant sailors, local shipwrecks and the colonial gentry that frequented this pocket of Tasmania. The semi-outdoor area features a seating area fronting a peaceful water feature and kitchenette. The inner room of the lounge is where you can sink into a velvet lounge, savouring a tipple and thinking of the trials and tribulations attached to the historical artefacts dotting the room.
The off-street parking leads guests up to the gym, yoga room and laundry. Four bicycles and helmets are also stored here, available for guest use. A side gate leads to the extensive, tiered back garden. Painstakingly restored with beautiful stone walls, timber decks and lush lawn, the garden beds are filled with flowers and plants carefully placed in tribute to the Ship Inn’s rich English heritage. It’s the perfect spot to simply sit still with a glorious view over the bay.
THE HOSPITALITY
There is a reception desk, however, there was no need for us to reach out to the owners.
Self check-in instructions are emailed to you before your arrival and there is a detailed information book in each room.
Rooms are serviced daily and breakfast is also included in the price. The continental breakfast consists of a fresh loaf of bread, condiments, Tamar Valley yoghurt, homemade granola, apple compote and stewed rhubarb with juice, tea and coffee. You are welcome to dine in the privacy of your suite or take your goodies up to the back garden to enjoy the seaside view.
THE LOWDOWN
How To Get To The Ship Inn Stanley
From Launceston, The Ship Inn Stanley is around 2 hours 30 minutes drive. Factor in at least an extra hour for pit stops along the Cradle to Coast trail.
How To Book a Suite at The Ship Inn Stanley
You can book your stay at The Ship Inn Stanley via Airbnb or directly on the their website.
