Maritime History
Historic Ports
Since the settlement of Yorke Peninsula during the 1860s a flourishing shipping trade developed. Today Ardrossan, Wallaroo, Klein's Point and Port Giles are still thriving shipping ports with the export of grain and mining produce. They are serviced by large bulk carrying ships, quite different to the smaller ketches and windjammers of yesteryear. All of Yorke Peninsula's ports thrive as coastal holiday destinations. Whether you are dangling a line, reliving the history, diving on jetties or shipwrecks or relaxing on the coast you will enjoy our historical ports - a mixture of yesteryear and modern facilities.
Historic Jetties
Yorke Peninsula is steeped in maritime history. Shipping was the main mode of transport for local produce for many decades, creating many colourful tales surrounding our jetties. Today they still abound with life, full of holiday makers and recreational anglers trying their luck. Yorke Peninsula's Historical Jetties brochure depicts many of these interesting tales.
Shipwrecks
Yorke Peninsula's coastline is home to many shipwrecks and the fascinating history of their demise. The Wardang Island Maritime Heritage Trail has eight shipwrecks within 10 miles to explore in clear shallow waters making it ideal for novice shipwreck divers. The Investigator Strait Maritime Heritage Trail, between Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island, features 26 shipwrecks dating from 1849 to 1982. You can download the Historical Shipwrecks brochure and waterproof dive trail booklets are available from The Farm Shed Museum & Tourism Centre in Kadina and Harvest Corner Information & Craft in Minlaton.
Lighthouses
Surviving earthquakes, fires and constant erosion from the wind and sea, Yorke Peninsula's lighthouses have withstood the test of time. They guided shipping safely through wild seas and around treacherous coastlines and have been an integral part of Yorke Peninsula's history. Read about Yorke Peninsula's lighthouses - and the lighthouses of South Australia - on the Lighthouses Australia website.
