Danish Royals Embrace Tasmania’s Coastal Charm and Cultural Heart on Final Day Down Under
King Frederik X and Queen Mary of Denmark concluded their six-day Australian tour with a deeply personal and action-packed final day in Hobart, Tasmania, on March 19th. The visit, marking Queen Mary’s first official return to her home state in over two decades, offered a poignant blend of marine exploration, industrial innovation, culinary immersion, and artistic discovery.
Their Majesties began their Tasmanian immersion with an engaging encounter with the region’s vibrant marine life. A boat trip to the Alum Cliffs Marine Reserve, in collaboration with the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), provided an up-close and personal look at the underwater world.
Queen Mary, 54, was visibly captivated, pictured with her mouth agape as she delicately handled a sea urchin. King Frederik, 57, and the Queen alike appeared astounded as a marine researcher showcased a formidable live lobster, held aloft in his bare hands.
This educational excursion served a dual purpose, allowing the royal couple to engage with researchers and gain insights into critical environmental initiatives. Discussions focused on the vital work of kelp forest restoration and the ongoing efforts to understand and protect marine biodiversity, particularly in the face of climate change impacts on marine ecosystems.
Tasmania’s Premier, Jeremy Rockliff, joined the royal couple on their marine adventure. Speaking to local media, he expressed immense pride in showcasing the beauty of his home state, describing it as “the most beautiful place in the world.”
Earlier in the day, the royals were formally welcomed to Hobart at Government House. The ceremony, hosted by Governor Barbara Baker and Premier Jeremy Rockliff, included a traditional Welcome to Country.
An Aboriginal representative led a smoking ceremony, a deeply symbolic act of respect for the land and the Indigenous peoples of Tasmania, setting a tone of cultural appreciation for the day’s engagements.
True to her reputation for mindful and sustainable fashion, Queen Mary opted for a cherished ensemble for her morning’s activities, a re-wear of a beloved outfit previously seen at royal engagements. She looked effortlessly chic in a cream Ralph Lauren Wool Silk Linen Draped Jacket, layered over a ME+EM Paisley print maxi dress. This particular dress and jacket combination, along with a tan, waist-tied belt, brown suede pump heels, hoop earrings, and gold bracelets, had previously been worn by the Queen in July 2023 at an event at Graasten Palace, where she unfortunately experienced a wasp sting. She completed her look with tortoiseshell sunglasses for the boat outing.
The morning’s activities were just the prelude to a packed itinerary. Their next destination was the INCAT Shipyard, a significant player in maritime innovation. Here, the royal couple observed the construction of high-speed catamarans, including the world’s largest battery-powered ferries destined for Danish operator Molslinjen. They were given a tour of the dock and viewed the battery compartment of a completed vessel.
King Frederik had alluded to this visit during his state banquet speech in Canberra earlier in the week, highlighting the significance of these Australian-built, battery-electric ferries that will soon connect Danish regions.
Following their industrial tour, the royals delved into Tasmania’s renowned culinary scene with a visit to The Agrarian Kitchen. This award-winning cooking school and restaurant champions hyper-local produce and sustainable, circular food practices, offering a taste of Tasmania’s commitment to ethical gastronomy.
No visit to Hobart would be complete without experiencing the unique artistic landscape of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). The royal couple were scheduled to tour the acclaimed museum with its founder, David Walsh, and experience a special pop-up concert by Danish electropop duo ROYA within one of MONA’s distinctive exhibition spaces.
The day’s explorations culminated with a leisurely stroll along Hunter Street, a precinct celebrated for its array of historic buildings, offering a final glimpse into Hobart’s architectural heritage.
The grand finale of their Australian state visit was a State Reception hosted by the Tasmanian Governor. This prestigious event brought together specially invited guests, marking a fitting and elegant conclusion to King Frederik and Queen Mary’s official tour of Australia.
