George III, Convict transport shipwreck in D'Entrecasteaux Channel, Tasmania
The George III was a British merchant vessel used for transporting convicts between England and Tasmania during the 1830s. The wreck now lies in D'Entrecasteaux Channel and remains a testament to the maritime history of that era.
The vessel departed England in 1834 with over 300 people aboard, including convicts and passengers, and sank shortly after near Tasmania's coast. The event was among the most severe maritime disasters of early European settlement in Australia.
The ship served as a vital transport vessel for convicts sent to Australia, and its loss had profound effects on early colonial history. The disaster shaped settler awareness of the dangers inherent in sea voyages of that era.
The site is located in D'Entrecasteaux Channel and is primarily of interest to experienced divers, as the wreck lies in deep water. Visitors should work with local boat guides or dive clubs familiar with local conditions.
A fire broke out aboard caused by careless handling of open flame near powder stores, leading to severe food shortages. The crew later faced scurvy cases, which though typical for ships of that era, proved particularly severe on this voyage.
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