What is Bass Strait?
Bass Strait is the stretch of sea that separates Tasmania from mainland Australia. It is about 240 kilometres wide at its narrowest and is known for rough, unpredictable weather.
The strait is named after George Bass, a British naval surgeon who explored it in 1797 and 1798. In 1798 and 1799, Bass and Matthew Flinders sailed around Tasmania, proving it was an island separate from the mainland.
Bass Strait contains more than 50 islands, including King Island and Flinders Island. Its waters hold important oil and gas fields, and the shallow seabed, strong winds and currents have caused many shipwrecks over the centuries.
Crossing the strait
The Spirit of Tasmania ferries carry passengers and cars overnight between Geelong in Victoria and Devonport in Tasmania. Undersea cables also carry electricity and communications across the strait.
Seals, penguins and seabirds live on many of the strait's islands. Phillip Island, near the Victorian coast, is famous for its nightly little penguin parade.
Did You Know?
During the last ice age, sea levels were lower and a land bridge connected Tasmania to the mainland.