About Boat Reflections

Boat Reflections is nestled in Franklin, one of Tasmania's most historic riverside towns, where the Huon River shapes both the landscape and the way of life. Just steps from the water, our self-contained deluxe rooms give you front-row views of the river and, on clear nights, a rare southern perspective of the Aurora Australis. For guests, this is one of the southernmost stays in Australia — a chance to experience wilderness, heritage, and sky shows all from your doorstep.

Staying with us

Scott's connection to place is embedded in the accommodation itself: five brand-new units, each thoughtfully designed, self-contained, and offering either river or mountain views. Your room looks straight onto the Huon River — sunrises pour through the windows, and the evenings are best spent on the deck watching the last light fade over the water. Each space is simple, modern, and comfortable, with a queen bed, kitchenette, and the privacy you want after a day of exploring. Couples, families, and travellers of all kinds are welcome, with one of the rooms fully wheelchair accessible. Outside the door you'll find the foreshore walking trail, wooden boats tied to the jetty, and a pub, café, and restaurants within a few minutes' stroll.

The town of Franklin

Franklin itself is a village of craft, culture, and flavour. It's home to the world-famous Wooden Boat Centre, where traditional boat-building skills are kept alive, and Franks Cider House, where you can sample ciders made from fruit grown in the valley for over a century. For outdoor explorers, Tahune Forest Adventures and the Franklin Forest walk offer swinging bridges, rainforest trails, and river views that connect you directly with Tasmania's wilderness. Boat Reflections also sits in perfect position for visitors to experience DarkLab's ambitious new project, 'Transformer'. Backed by the team behind MONA, Transformer has been approved by the Huon Valley Council and will create a 'never-ending kaleidoscope' of light and weather deep in the Wilderness World Heritage Area — set to become one of Tasmania's most talked-about art experiences.

The Huon Valley

Beyond Franklin lies the wider Huon Valley — a region of orchards, vineyards, forests, and wild rivers. It’s known as Tasmania’s apple heartland, but it’s also a place of adventure. Drive 30 minutes south and you’re in ancient forests at Tahune Adventures. Head further and you’ll find yourself in the Hartz Mountains, hiking alpine tracks with views over the southern ranges. To the west, boutique wineries and farm gates make up the valley’s food trail.

What ties it all together is a sense of space and authenticity. The Huon Valley isn’t polished for tourists — it’s lived-in and real, and that’s where its charm lies.

Your hosts

Your host, Scott Smith, is not only the builder of Boat Reflections but also a Tasmanian Aboriginal man, proudly descended from Fanny Cochrane Smith, whose voice recordings are among the earliest and most important records of Tasmanian Aboriginal culture. Scott and Vanessa built the accommodation to share what they love about their home — the river, the quiet, and the character of the Huon.