Admire the famously moody view of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel here. This is a bar with a difference - a decent range of local brews, wines and an above average spirit choice mean you can be confident of finding just the right tipple to match your mood and the Channel's mood.

You can also be confident of some decent food to soak up the drinks. Start by tucking into a platter of Bruny Island oysters while you contemplate the island itself through the tall glass windows. Follow up with your choice from a classic gastro-pub selection. Or if you don't want a whole meal, just seek refuge here on a grey misty afternoon and indulge in a decent dessert or a cheese platter.

The contemporary design is a welcome change from the local pub vernacular, with cushioned steamer chairs inside and simple wood and aluminium benches under the umbrellas on the deck.

That mesmerising water is a strong enough drawcard, but the promise of dolphin sightings and even a whale once a year or so are added incentives to visit.