SHARE THIS POST
Embark on a journey through time and nature with this captivating 2-day itinerary in Port Arthur, where Tasmania’s dramatic landscapes meet its fascinating convict history. Nestled on the Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur offers a unique blend of breathtaking coastal beauty, rich wildlife, and a deep connection to Australia’s past. Over two days, you’ll experience the thrill of the Tasman Island Cruise, witnessing towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline teeming with marine life, before diving into the eerie yet compelling stories of the convicts who lived and laboured at the Port Arthur Historic Site. From exploring iconic natural landmarks like the Tessellated Pavement and Devil’s Kitchen to walking among the haunting ruins of a once-notorious penal settlement, this itinerary offers a perfect mix of adventure, reflection, and awe. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, Port Arthur promises a memorable and immersive Tasmanian experience. Get ready to be captivated by this extraordinary destination!
In a rush? Download our itinerary for FREE to view it from your mailbox later!
Getting there
Reaching Port Arthur is an easy and scenic drive from Hobart, taking approximately 90 minutes along the picturesque Arthur Highway. The journey offers stunning views of Tasmania’s rugged coastline, passing through quaint towns and lush forests. If you’re coming from Hobart, head southeast on the Tasman Highway (A3) before taking the turnoff onto the Arthur Highway (A9), which leads directly to the Tasman Peninsula. For those flying into Hobart, car rentals are readily available at the airport, making it convenient to explore the area at your own pace. Alternatively, guided tours from Hobart offer a stress-free option to visit Port Arthur without worrying about transportation. Whichever way you choose to travel, the journey to Port Arthur is as beautiful as the destination itself!
Day 1: Stop #1 - Tasman Island Cruise
Start your day with an exhilarating Tasman Island Cruise – a breathtaking journey along the rugged coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck. Check in by 9:15 am at the Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre, conveniently located just 100 metres before the Port Arthur Historic Site entrance. The three-hour cruise showcases the best of Tasmania’s wild coastline, with towering sea cliffs, remote islands, and incredible marine wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and seabirds. Depending on the sea conditions, the route is tailored daily to offer the best possible experience, making every trip unique. Dress warmly, even in summer, as the cool sea breeze can bite. Beanies, scarves, and gloves are highly recommended, along with a camera to capture the extraordinary views. This immersive experience will leave you in awe of Tasmania’s natural beauty, and it’s a fantastic way to kick off your visit to Port Arthur. Book your Tasman Island Cruise experience via the link below:
Day 1: Stop #2 - Explore Eaglehawk Neck's Natural Wonders
After your lunch break, set off to explore the striking geological formations of Eaglehawk Neck, a short drive from Port Arthur. These dramatic natural landmarks offer a unique insight into the region's rugged landscape.
Tessellated Pavement
Start with a visit to the Tessellated Pavement, an extraordinary rock formation that resembles a tiled floor. Shaped by natural erosion over thousands of years, this stunning coastal feature offers a perfect blend of artistry and nature. Low tide reveals the true beauty of the pavement, where salt crystals create shimmering patterns on the rocks, offering ample photo opportunities.
|
|
Tasman Arch
Next, head to the Tasman Arch, a towering natural rock bridge formed by the constant battering of waves against the cliffs. This incredible archway gives you a glimpse into the power of coastal erosion, and the nearby Cliffs Lookout Point provides stunning views of the coastline. Don’t miss the chance to admire the sheer scale of this natural wonder as it frames the wild ocean beneath. Tasman Arch, Cliffs Lookout Point, and Devil's Kitchen (our next stop) are all easily accessible by walk via the less-than-1-kilometre Tasman Arch Track.
Next, head to the Tasman Arch, a towering natural rock bridge formed by the constant battering of waves against the cliffs. This incredible archway gives you a glimpse into the power of coastal erosion, and the nearby Cliffs Lookout Point provides stunning views of the coastline. Don’t miss the chance to admire the sheer scale of this natural wonder as it frames the wild ocean beneath. Tasman Arch, Cliffs Lookout Point, and Devil's Kitchen (our next stop) are all easily accessible by walk via the less-than-1-kilometre Tasman Arch Track.
|
|
Devil's Kitchen
A short walk away from Tasman Arch is Devil’s Kitchen, another impressive example of nature’s force. Here, the relentless pounding of the waves has carved out a deep, narrow chasm in the cliffs. Watch as the waves crash against the jagged rocks below, creating a dramatic scene that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring.
A short walk away from Tasman Arch is Devil’s Kitchen, another impressive example of nature’s force. Here, the relentless pounding of the waves has carved out a deep, narrow chasm in the cliffs. Watch as the waves crash against the jagged rocks below, creating a dramatic scene that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring.
|
|
The Blowhole
Finish your afternoon at the Blowhole, where the sea surges through an underground tunnel before erupting in spectacular bursts of water. This dynamic natural feature changes with the tides, with the best views on high tide when the water shoots higher and more frequently. There are picnic areas and short walking tracks nearby, making it an ideal spot to pause and take in the coastal beauty before heading back to Port Arthur. Don’t miss the nearby Fossil Bay Lookout, located just over 100 metres from the Blowhole, offering a spectacular view of the bay.
Finish your afternoon at the Blowhole, where the sea surges through an underground tunnel before erupting in spectacular bursts of water. This dynamic natural feature changes with the tides, with the best views on high tide when the water shoots higher and more frequently. There are picnic areas and short walking tracks nearby, making it an ideal spot to pause and take in the coastal beauty before heading back to Port Arthur. Don’t miss the nearby Fossil Bay Lookout, located just over 100 metres from the Blowhole, offering a spectacular view of the bay.
|
|
Day 1: Last Stop - Ghost Tour at the Port Arthur Historic Site
After dinner, prepare for a thrilling evening at the Port Arthur Historic Site Ghost Tour. As night falls, the site transforms into a place of mystery and intrigue, with ghostly stories echoing through the centuries-old ruins. This 90-minute, lantern-lit tour takes you through some of the most infamous buildings of the former penal colony, where more than 1,000 people perished during its time as a settlement. Your guide will lead you through darkened passages and eerie ruins, sharing tales of the unexplained events that have haunted Port Arthur since the 1800s. Paranormal activity has been reported here for more than a century, with countless visitors adding their own eerie experiences to the site’s haunted history. As you walk along the dimly lit paths, you’ll feel the weight of the past and question whether the restless spirits still linger.
Pro Tip: Be sure to arrive 15–30 minutes before your tour time for check-in, and dress warmly as Tasmania’s night air can be quite brisk. This is a guided, lantern-lit walking tour that includes a 2km walk around the historic site at night, so comfortable shoes are a must. Tours operate in most weather conditions, so make sure you’re prepared - leave your umbrellas behind as they’re not allowed on the tour!
Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, this Ghost Tour will leave you with lasting memories (and perhaps a chill down your spine!) as you conclude your first day in Port Arthur. More information about the tour timings and tickets can be found on Port Arthur Historic Site's official website.
Whether you’re a sceptic or a believer, this Ghost Tour will leave you with lasting memories (and perhaps a chill down your spine!) as you conclude your first day in Port Arthur. More information about the tour timings and tickets can be found on Port Arthur Historic Site's official website.
Day 2: Immersed in History at the Port Arthur Historic Site
Prepare for an unforgettable second day at the Port Arthur Historic Site, where Tasmania’s convict history comes alive. Your entry ticket gives you access to two consecutive days of exploration, so today is your chance to dive deeper into the stories of the people who lived, worked, and died here. With more than 30 historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and tours, the day promises a journey back in time through Australia’s dark convict past.
Begin your visit at the Port Arthur Gallery, where interactive displays and exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the site’s history and its inhabitants. This is the perfect place to get your bearings and develop a sense of the significance of Port Arthur’s role as a penal settlement. The gallery features personal stories of the convicts, military officers, and free settlers who lived here, bringing their experiences vividly to life. Once you’ve explored the gallery, pick up your Port Arthur Audio Experience and start a self-guided tour. The audio guide allows you to explore the site at your own pace, stopping to hear stories and historical details about each area. With over 30 buildings and ruins to discover, including the imposing Penitentiary, the chilling Separate Prison, and the picturesque Commandant’s House, the audio tour offers an immersive experience into the daily lives of those who lived here.
|
|
One of the highlights of the day is the complimentary Harbour Cruise included with your entry ticket. This scenic 20-minute cruise takes you around Mason Cove, providing stunning views of the site from the water and a unique perspective of the remote and rugged beauty of the Tasman Peninsula. But don’t stop there – upgrade your experience with the Isle of the Dead Cemetery Tour (via the link below), one of the most captivating and haunting tours available at Port Arthur.
Isle of the Dead Cemetery Tour: A Journey to the Past
Step aboard the MV Marana for a short voyage to the Isle of the Dead, the final resting place for over 1,000 souls who lived and worked at Port Arthur. This tiny island, just off the coast, serves as a solemn reminder of the harsh realities faced by convicts, soldiers, and their families. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you through the island’s two distinct burial sections. The southern end holds unmarked graves of convicts, whose anonymity was only partially acknowledged after 1850 when headstones began to be erected for a select few. These forgotten men, whose stories were often lost to history, find their voices revived on this tour.
|
|
In contrast, the northern end of the island is marked with the headstones of military officers, free settlers, women, and children, highlighting the stark social divide that persisted even in death. As you walk among these graves, your guide will share personal stories, revealing the lives of convicts, soldiers who guarded the prison, and officers who commanded it. The Isle of the Dead Tour offers a deeply reflective experience, connecting you with the poignant histories of those buried here. With its haunting beauty and profound stories, this tour is an essential part of your visit to Port Arthur. Just be sure to come prepared for all weather, as the island's steep gradients make it important to plan ahead for mobility needs.
After returning from the Isle of the Dead, continue exploring the historic site for the rest of the day. Wander through the beautifully restored heritage gardens, where officers and their families once strolled, or visit the Convict Church, where prisoners attended mandatory services. The site’s Commandant’s House offers a glimpse into the more comfortable life of those who oversaw the prison operations, contrasting sharply with the grim conditions of the convicts. Throughout the day, make sure to join the complimentary guide talks offered at key locations, where experts will provide deeper insights into the buildings and the people who once occupied them. These talks offer fascinating anecdotes and historical context, enriching your experience as you move through the site.
|
|
After two incredible days exploring Port Arthur and its surrounding natural wonders, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s convict past and an appreciation for the region’s stunning landscapes. From the breathtaking coastal views on the Tasman Island Cruise to the haunting tales of the Ghost Tour and the rich history uncovered at the Port Arthur Historic Site, this journey offers a perfect blend of adventure and reflection. As you wrap up your time in Port Arthur, it’s time to head back to where you came from, carrying unforgettable memories of Tasmania’s history and beauty.
Our Itinerary
|
Download our itinerary for FREE! |
Love our itinerary? Excited to visit Port Arthur? Book your accommodation via Booking.com below at cheaper prices!
If you have an exciting itinerary that you’d like to be hosted in the Guests’ Itineraries section of our website, please contact us at [email protected] and we are super excited to collaborate with you on the same.
This post may contain affiliate links which means that at zero additional cost for you, we will earn a small commission if you decide to buy something via the links provided. This helps us in running our website. Thank you!
This post may contain affiliate links which means that at zero additional cost for you, we will earn a small commission if you decide to buy something via the links provided. This helps us in running our website. Thank you!