The "A Night at the Museum – Ghostly Tour" at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre was one of the most enjoyable events I’ve attended in Devonport. The combination of history, immersive storytelling, and a unique after-hours experience in the museum made for an unforgettable evening.
The tour was led by an actor portraying William Chapman, the Harbour Master from 1855, who guided us through the museum by lantern light. As we moved through the exhibits, he shared stories about Devonport’s maritime history and the significance of the artifacts on display. Seeing the museum’s collection through the eyes of “Chapman” gave the tour an engaging and immersive feel, making it easy to imagine the past coming to life.
Throughout the tour, we learned about various artifacts and their connections to Devonport’s seafaring heritage. The dim lighting and atmospheric setting added to the experience, making it feel like we were stepping back in time. The performance by the actor brought an extra layer of authenticity, making the stories even more compelling.
The evening concluded with a choice of hot chocolate or a warming hot toddy, followed by a quiz that tested our knowledge from the tour. It was a fun and interactive way to wrap up the night, allowing everyone to reflect on the fascinating stories we had just heard.
This was a well-organised and engaging event, offering a fresh perspective on the museum and its collection. I hope it returns next year—it’s a fantastic way to experience Devonport’s maritime history in a truly immersive way.
Article originally published 15th June