1 Day Port Arthur Tour
Explore Tasmania’s ruthless convict past at the World Heritage Listed historic site on this Port Arthur day tour.
During our day we'll explore colonial village Richmond and the famous Port Arthur prison where we'll join a guided tour, take a harbour cruise and allow plenty of time to explore Australia’s best heritage attraction.
- Air-Conditioned Vehicle
- Knowledgeable/Experienced Guide
- Small Group Adventure
- Visit Port Arthur
- Learn about Tassie's Convict History
- See Colonial Village Richmond
- Guided Scenic Walks
- Harbour Cruise
- Accommodation Transfers
- Port Arthur Entry Fees
- Airconditioned Transport
- Trip length:
- 1 Day
- Group size:
- Max 20
- Start:
- Hobart
- End:
- Hobart
- Vehicle:
- Airconditoned 4WD Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Non
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Join us for a fun and action-packed day out on the Tasman Peninsula. Explore, discover and learn with our guides as we enjoy a variety of activities, walks, sightseeing, history, and so much more!
Today is action packed and fast paced. We make an early start from Hobart and drive directly to the stunning Tasman Peninsula. This area has amazing history, fascinating stories and spectacular scenery. It is also home to Australia’s highest sea cliffs. We enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline from Pirates Bay Lookout, this provides a great perspective of the surrounding area, it’s geological features and also the difficulties faced by escaping convicts!
Passing through Eaglehawk Neck and "The Dogline" our Tour Guides will share with you some fascinating stories and history of the area. Then we begin one of Tasmania's "Great Short Walks". We follow a spectacular track, of around 2 km’s along the Waterfall Bay cliff top. The walk takes around 45-60 minutes, is undulating, but categorised as an easy walk. The track concludes at the remarkable rock formations of Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen.
Continuing our journey, we arrive at Port Arthur Historic Site. As we enter the Port Arthur Historic Site, there is a wealth of information and history to take in and you will have ample time to explore and discover the nooks and crannies with around 4 hours on site. Your entry includes a complimentary Harbour Cruise around the Isle of the Dead, ‘The Port Arthur Experience' a podcast that provides a fascinating introduction to the site, and complimentary site talks throughout the day led by Port Arthur’s expert guides. Discover the grim and violent history of the early Australian Penal system and get a sense of the isolation experienced by the convicts in this “inescapable prison”. Walk among the main penitentiary; see the solitary confinement cells and many more buildings in this World Heritage open air museum.
On our return to Hobart, we travel via the historic township of Richmond. Arriving late the in the afternoon, you will have time to meander the streets, stop for a coffee, visit the Lolly Shop, Chocolatier and walk across Australia’s oldest bridge still in use – a convict built sand-stone bridge, reported to be haunted!
We arrive back into Hobart around 6.00pm.
Departs
Tour Starts:
In Hobart CBD
- 07:00 - Amberley House
- 07:00 - Argyle Motor Lodge
- 07:00 - Bay Hotel Apartments
- 07:00 - Clydesdale Manor
- 07:00 - The Lodge on Elizabeth
- 07:00 - Motel 429
- 07:00 - North Hobart Post Office 412 Elizabeth Street
- 07:00 - Prince of Wales Hotel
- 07:00 - Quest Trinity House
- 07:00 - Regent Park Apartments
- 07:00 - Rydges Hobart
- 07:00 - St. Ives Apartments
- 07:00 - Tower Motel
- 07:00 - Wrest Point
- 07:05 - Lenna of Hobart
- 07:05 - Salamanca Inn
- 07:05 - Salamanca Wharf Hotel
- 07:10 - Ibis Styles Hobart
- 07:10 - Travelodge Hotel Hobart
- 07:15 - Best Western Hobart
- 07:20 - Crowne Plaza Hobart
- 07:20 - Grand Chancellor Hotel Hobart
- 07:25 - General Meet Point
- 07:25 - Backpackers Imperial Hotel
- 07:25 - Hadleys Orient Hotel
- 07:25 - Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
- 07:25 - RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel
- 07:25 - Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre (16-20 Dave Street Hobart)
My Hotel Not Listed: Let us know where you will be staying and we will arrange the nearest pick up location for you.
Tour Finishes
In Hobart CBD
- 18:00 - Hobart
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can drop down 5 degrees celcius
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Money for lunch
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Sleeping bags are needed and can be hired for $15 if you don't have one.
- Rechargers
- Camera
What is included
TRANSPORT
- Airconditioned mini bus
- Accommodation transfers
OTHER
- Port Arthur Entry Fees
- Hostel & Hotel pick up and drop off
- Guided walk and Harbour Cruise included
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How fit do I need to be?
Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.
Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble.
Can we depart Tasmania the day our tour finishes? Can we be dropped off at the Airport?
Yes, you can depart Tasmania the same day your tour finishes; to be on the safe side we advise all flights leaving Tasmania should be booked for 8pm or later.
We can arrange an airport drop off on the final day of tour the following tours: 7 Day, 6 Day, 5 Day, 4 Day. If you wish to be dropped at the Airport on either of these please ensure you have all possessions with you on tour as you will be dropped at the airport on the way back into Hobart.
For all other tours you will be dropped into the city centre.
Can I arrive in Tasmania the day my tour departs?
No, You will need to arrive into your departure city at least the day before your tour is scheduled to depart, due to the early start to our day tours and multi-day tours you cannot arrive the same day your tour is set to depart.
How can I get from the Airport to the city centre?
HOBART AIRPORT INFORMATION
LOCATION – Hobart Airport is located 17 kilometres (roughly a 15-20 minute drive) from the city centre of Hobart. You can get to and from the airport via the SkyBus, Uber or taxis.
SKYBUS HOBART EXPRESS SHUTTLE SERVICE – Skybus operates a regular express bus service between Hobart Airport and select locations in Hobart’s city centre.
TAXIS – Taxis are located directly out the front of the building and cost approximately $40 to $60 each way to/from Hobart’s city centre. If you need a mini-van or special taxi ask one of the kerbside assistants who will radio one through for you.
UBER – Uber is available in Hobart and rides can be organised through their app. Fares can be cheaper than taxis however wait times can vary largely and are dependent on available drivers in the local area.
LAUNCESTON AIRPORT INFORMATION
LOCATION – Launceston Airport is located 15 kilometres south of Launceston on the Evandale Main Road. You can get to and from the airport via shuttle bus or taxis.
TAXIS – Taxis are located directly out the front of the building and cost approximately $30 to $40 each way to/from Launceston’s city centre. If you need a mini-van or special taxi ask one of the kerbside assistants who will radio one through for you.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.
If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.
Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
If you cancel a booking due to COVID-19
Within 21 days of departure and due to you having COVID-19 or symptoms and supported by a medical certificate, or due to border closures inhibiting your ability to travel, we will refund monies paid by you in connection with the booking less any unrecoverable costs.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
Cost and Fees
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
What accommodation will we be sleeping in during our Tassie trip?
During our Tasmania tours we stay in a wide variety of different hostels and motels with dorm style accommodation. All accommodation are run by friendly and hospitable locals who's job it is to make sure you enjoy your stay while in Tassie!For those who'd like more privacy, we do have the option to upgrade to twin or double rooms with private facilities.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations.
What will the weather be like?
Between the months of April and August Central Australia is quite cold so be sure to bring warm clothing. Temperatures range from about 20c during the day right down to 2c at night.
Between October and March temperature are warm, so light clothing during the day is ok. However, night times can still be quite cool so its wise to bring light winter clothing for extra warm.
Where do I meet the tour?
Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.
Is food included on this tour?
We believe that our guests prefer to do their own thing when it comes to meals. We allow them their own space each day to dine out and enjoy the local fare and provide recommendations, and we also assist by taking guests to the local supermarket to purchase items that can be prepared in the kitchen at each hostel, either individually or as a group. If there's something you can't do without, just bring it with you! Please advise your dietary requirements at the time of booking.
What vehicle do we use to explore Tasmania?
For our Tasmania tours we generally use one of our custom prepared 4WD Mini buses. However this depends on the size of the group and the amount of days we are out and about. Each Tasmania tour varies so please refer to your tour info panel on the top right hand side of the page.
What is the weather like in Tasmania?
Tasmania weather has four distinct seasons. The warmest months are December, January, February and March. Autumn (Fall) has many sunny days and the landscape produces a mass of colour as 200 year-old oaks, elms, birches and Tasmania’s own native beech, turn from gold to red in preparation for winter. Winter runs from May through August. Spring spans September, October and November, and brings oceans of wildflowers. The average summer temperatures sit between 17 and 23 degrees Celsius (62 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit) and in winter, between 3 and 11 degrees Celsius (37 and 51 degrees Fahrenheit). Tasmania’s location below the 40th parallel means the summer evenings display a lingering twilight