
Princess Royal Harbour has been a significant part of Australian history since 1829.
The harbour was named after Princess Charlotte of Wales, who later became the Princess Royal.
In the harbour's early days, it was an important anchorage for ships and a hub for the local fishing industry.
History and Reviews
The Princess Royal Harbour is home to the Princess Royal Fortress, a site that offers a glimpse into the region's military history. Located on Mount Adelaide, the fortress provides panoramic views of King George Sound.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved gun emplacements, underground magazines, and barracks, which showcase coastal defense strategies from the late 19th century through World War II. The National Anzac Centre, located within the fortress grounds, is a standout attraction that pays tribute to the Anzac legacy.
The Princess Royal Fortress has a solid historical experience, combining military heritage with stunning coastal views. It's particularly appealing to history enthusiasts and those interested in Australia's role in various conflicts.
History

The Princess Royal Harbour has a rich history that spans over two centuries. It was first explored by George Vancouver in HMS Discovery in September 1791, who named the harbour after Princess Charlotte Augusta Matilda, the first daughter and fourth child of King George III.
The harbour was surveyed by several notable explorers, including Matthew Flinders in 1802, Jules Dumont d'Urville in 1826, John Lort Stokes in 1848, and Henry Mangles Denham in 1858.
Until 1901, the harbour was less than two metres deep, but it was dredged that year to improve its depth. The entrance to the harbour was also dredged in 1952.
The Princess Royal Harbour played a significant role in World War I, serving as the departure location for a large convoy of Australian troops in November 1914.
Fortress Reviews
The Princess Royal Fortress in Albany, Australia, offers a unique historical experience with its well-preserved gun emplacements, underground magazines, and barracks.

Located on Mount Adelaide, the site provides panoramic views of King George Sound, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Australia's role in various conflicts.
The fortress features informative displays and the opportunity to explore the tunnels and bunkers, giving insight into coastal defense strategies from the late 19th century through World War II.
While some visitors mention that certain areas could benefit from improved signage or guided tours to fully appreciate the historical context, the overall experience is educational and engaging.
The National Anzac Centre, located within the fortress grounds, is a standout attraction that offers a moving tribute to the Anzac legacy.
If you're planning to visit, be aware that the steep walk to reach some parts of the fortress may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Here's a summary of the Princess Royal Fortress's rating:
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- Aggregated rating based on reviews from multiple platforms
Fishing and Facilities
Princess Royal Harbour has a fishing industry that's been a significant part of the local economy for decades.
The harbour is home to a number of fishing boats, including trawlers and longliners, which operate in the surrounding waters.
Fishing is a major contributor to the harbour's economy, with many local businesses relying on the industry for their livelihood.
The harbour's facilities cater to the fishing industry, providing services such as fueling, maintenance, and repair for the boats.
Where to Fish Nearby?
If you're looking for a fishing spot nearby, consider the lake at the heart of the resort, which is stocked with trout and catfish.
The lake is a short walk from the resort's main building.
The nearby river is also a great spot to catch some fish, with its calm waters and abundance of fish species.
The river is easily accessible from the resort's parking area.
For a more secluded fishing experience, head to the nearby forest, where you can catch bass and other species.
Be sure to check the resort's fishing regulations before heading out.
Facilities

The Albany Port has some impressive facilities that make it a great place for fishing and cargo handling. It has four operational berths, with a fifth one ready to be developed when needed.
The port can accommodate large vessels like panamax size ships, with a maximum laden draft of 11.7 meters. This is a significant advantage for cargo handling.
You'll also find two tugs with 45-tonne bollard pull capacity, a 12-tonne mobile crane, and three forklift trucks with capacities ranging from 2 to 5 tonnes. These are essential for handling cargo and ensuring smooth operations.
The port has a large cold storage facility with a volume of 98,000 cubic meters, which is perfect for storing perishable goods. It's located at the rear of Berth No. 1.
The port has direct rail access, which is a game-changer for transporting goods like woodchips from the Albany Plantation Export Company's woodchip mill. This reduces the need for road transportation and makes the process more efficient.

Here's a breakdown of the port's berths:
The port's facilities are designed to handle a variety of cargo, including bulk cargo, containers, and roll-on/roll-off vessels.
Recommended Lures
If you're planning to fish at Princess Royal Harbour, you'll want to know the best lures to use. The harbour is known for its good fishing, with many species caught here.
5-star lures have been hand-picked for Princess Royal Harbour, so you can trust they'll perform well.
Ecology
Princess Royal Harbour is home to a thriving seagrass meadow of Posidonia, a vital component of the harbour's ecosystem.
The harbour's water quality has been consistently monitored and tested over time, providing valuable insights into the health of the marine environment.
Located in Albany, Western Australia, Princess Royal Harbour benefits from the surrounding King George Sound, which helps regulate the water flow and quality.
The harbour's establishment dates back to 1791, making it a historic and culturally significant site in Australia.
Here are some key locations associated with Princess Royal Harbour:
- Princess Royal Harbour
- Albany, Western Australia
- King George Sound
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