This tour is active and involves some walking and is an outdoor activity, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Minimum age to participate in the tour is 8 years
All participants should have a sense of adventure, reasonable fitness, and good mobility.
Our general meet point is 7.25am - Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre, 20 Davey Street, Hobart. Please be ready 5 minutes prior to pick up time. There are many options for your lunch at the Port Arthur Historic Site. There are cafes and takeaway food options to suit your style and budget. You are welcome to bring your own food/snacks along with you for the day. The tour finishes at 6pm
Absolutely. Port Arthur Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed convict settlement offering a profound glimpse into Australia's colonial past. Visitors can explore preserved ruins, historic buildings, and beautiful grounds while learning about the lives of prisoners and soldiers. The site provides a unique educational and moving experience, highly recommended for history enthusiasts.
Port Arthur was established in 1830 as a timber station and quickly became a notorious penal settlement for repeat offenders from Britain and Ireland. It operated for over 45 years, known for its strict discipline and experimental 'separate prison' system. After its closure in 1877, the site evolved into a heritage tourism destination, preserving its significant yet somber history.
Yes, Port Arthur Historic Site offers several dining options for visitors. You can find cafes and restaurants on-site providing a range of choices from light snacks and coffee to more substantial meals. These facilities allow you to refresh and refuel during your exploration of the extensive grounds.
Admission to Port Arthur Historic Site typically includes access to the expansive grounds, historic ruins, restored buildings, and museums. It also usually covers a guided walking tour and a harbor cruise around the Isle of the Dead. These inclusions provide a comprehensive overview of the site's history and significance.
The complimentary harbor cruise around the Isle of the Dead offers a unique perspective of Port Arthur Historic Site from the water. It provides views of the penitentiary and surrounding landscape, while a guide shares stories about the island's role as the burial ground for convicts and staff. This cruise enhances understanding of the site's isolated history.
Beyond Port Arthur, the Tasman Peninsula tour explores other stunning natural and historical sites. Highlights include the Waterfall Bay cliff-top walk for spectacular coastal views, the natural rock formations of Devils Kitchen and Tasman Arch within Tasman National Park, and the charming historic Richmond Village with its iconic bridge.
The optimal season to visit Tasmania and Port Arthur Historic Site is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (November to April). During this period, you'll experience longer daylight hours and milder weather, which is ideal for outdoor explorations and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Tasman Peninsula.
The most convenient way to reach Port Arthur Historic Site from Hobart is by joining an organized tour, which often includes comfortable round-trip transportation. Alternatively, you can drive yourself, as the site is about a 90-minute drive southeast of Hobart. Public transport options are limited and often require multiple transfers.