Hafen
Port Arthur

Explore the history of what was formerly one of the most feared penal colonies in Australia during this exploration of Port Arthur Historic Site, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Port Arthur Historic Site

Located on the Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur was formerly one of Australia's most feared penal colonies. More than 10,000 English convicts were sent here over a turbulent, 40-year period.

Self-Guided Walk, Church, Hospital, Old Guard House, Model Prison

Upon arrival at the jetty, start your self-guided walk through one of Australia's most feared penal colonies followed by a scenic harbour cruise discovering the secrets of this historic site. Established on the Tasman Peninsula as a timber-cutting station in 1830, Port Arthur grew in size and importance in the last decades of transportation. More than 10,000 convicts were transported here from England during the forty years the prison was used and it was these same prisoners who eventually became the settlers of this new land. Now an historic site, Port Arthur has been carefully restored, making it easier to explore these fascinating ruins.

Church, Penitentiary, Hospital, Old Guard House

During your self exploration, visit interesting sites that include the church, which was designed by an inmate, along with the penitentiary, hospital, old guard house, and a model prison - a radical experiment in prison design for the time.

At the conclusion, you may remain in Port Arthur and simply catch a tender boat back on board at any time.

Experience an unforgettable three-hour wilderness cruises along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania.

Tassie Wilderness Cruise

Depart the pier for a brief transfer to your vessel and travel beneath the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere at Cape Pillar. Explore waterfalls, rock formations, archways and deep-sea caves. The coastline is part of Tasman National Park, and home to a variety of wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales and thousands of seabirds.

Tasman Peninsula, Spectacular Coastline, Wildlife Sightseeing

At any time of year, you're likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets, albatross and sea eagles wheeling on the wind, cliff-nesting cormorants and peregrine falcons, or a pod of playful dolphins surfing the bow-wave of the boat. The custom-built, yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular coastline and wildlife of the Tasman Peninsula. Each vessel is covered with open-air tiered seating for an excellent all-round view and connection with the environment.

At the end of your cruise, transfer back to the pier.