Observations on the Coasts of Van Diemen's Land

The north coast of Van Diemen's Land puts on a very different aspect from that of the west or south coasts. The long swell from the southern Indian Ocean, which strikes over to the coast of New South Wales from Hunter's Isles, leaves this side of Bass' Strait in smooth water. From this cause, and from the most prevailing winds being off the land, the north coast has more the appearance of being the shore of a harbour, than of one that is exposed to the sea.

Circular Head is steep, resembling a round twelfth cake in form, and is high enough to be seen more than eight leagues. The cape, to which it is connected by a low isthmus, and of which it forms the easternmost part, is smooth, sloping, and rather low.