Port Arthur Historic Site
The beautifully presented grounds are a stark contrast to the harsh conditions endured by the convicts. You can walk through the buildings on your own with an information book in hand or there are free guided tours. The entry fee also includes a short ferry ride around the harbour. The ferry takes you past the dockyard, the Point Puer Boys’ Prison and the Isle of the Dead cemetery. There are a range of other tours available at extra cost including a ghost tour and tours of the boys’ prison and the cemetery. The Port Arthur historic site lies at the very tip of the Tasman Peninsula and is UNESCO World Heritage listed. This historic penal colony was placed in this idyllic setting with a green mountain backdrop because of the harbour (for ease of unloading prisoners transported from England) and because it was situated on a peninsula it was easier to protect.
Tasman Island Cruises
Take an unforgettable three-hour journey on one of Pennicott’s famous Yellow boats. You’ll be amazed at the towering sea cliffs of Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy and marvel at the Tasman Island. On the way you’ll get up close to amazing sea cliffs, caves and sea life including seals, dolphins, migrating birds, and often whales.
Three Capes Track
The Award-Winning Three Capes Track is one of the newest of Tasmania’s long distance walks. The four-day, 48 km walk starts with a boat cruise from Port Arthur across the bay to Denmans Cove. Each night you will stay in an eco-friendly cabin with excellent facilities. There are no muddy boots on this walk as the entire walk is across boardwalks and crushed gravel trails. The walk will take you to the edge, traversing the Blade to the end of Cape Pillar, increase your step count and stair count on the way to Cape Hauy and enjoy spectacular views of Cape Raoul across the bay from your first night’s lodgings. Once you arrive at Fortescue Bay a charter bus whisks you back to Port Arthur.
