Port Arthur isn’t just about exploring ancient ruins or rugged coastline on foot. It’s also a place where boat tours and cruises open up a whole new way to see Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife. Whether you’re after epic sea cliffs, deep sea caves, or a firsthand look at local seabirds and marine mammals, the waters around Port Arthur deliver. We’re particularly fond of the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise, where you’ll get to see the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere and watch dolphins, seals, and whales in their natural habitat.
While some tours focus on scenic coastlines, others combine history with wildlife, like the Hobart: Port Arthur, Harbor Cruise and Isle of the Dead Tour. No matter what kind of maritime adventure you prefer, Port Arthur’s boat tours offer memorable ways to experience Tasmania’s wild coast and historic sites from a different perspective.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of boat tours and cruises, from wilderness expeditions along towering cliffs to historic harbor cruises with guided walks. Highlights include wildlife sightings, visits to key historic sites, and spectacular scenery. For a full list of options, see below.
1. From Port Arthur: Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise, a 3-hour voyage that takes you along Tasmania’s rugged southeastern coastline. This trip is renowned for its dramatic sea cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and blowholes. What makes it special is the opportunity to see the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere up close, with their sheer drops and jagged edges.
This cruise is also a wildlife magnet. Expect to see hundreds of seals, thousands of seabirds, and, depending on the season, dolphins and migrating whales. The crew is knowledgeable, sharing fun facts about the area’s geology and wildlife, making it both entertaining and educational. The reviews speak volumes, with a 4.9/5 rating from 660 travelers, many praising the quality of the scenery and wildlife sightings.
Priced at $119 per person, the trip is a strong value considering the length and richness of the experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to see Tasmania’s coastline from an angle only accessible by boat. Be prepared for some spray and wind—layering your clothing is recommended.
Bottom Line: A lively, wildlife-rich cruise showcasing Tasmania’s spectacular sea cliffs and caves—ideal for adventurers and photographers.
2. 3-Hour Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise from Port Arthur
This 3-hour wilderness cruise offers an in-depth look at Tasmania’s rugged coastline and remote islands. Departing daily from Port Arthur, it navigates between the historic site and Eaglehawk Neck, giving you a fresh perspective on the area’s geology and wildlife.
The tour highlights include panoramic views of towering sea cliffs, deep sea caves, and hidden coves. Your guide shares insights into the natural environment, including native albatrosses, eagles, dolphins, and seals. One of the unique features is the opportunity to see Tasmanian wildlife in their natural habitat while cruising past notable sites like Tasman Island, with its historic lighthouse, and the beautiful, white sands of Safety Cove.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 261 reviews, travelers love the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking vistas. The price of $122.04 offers excellent value, especially considering the chance to see whales during migration season.
Good for: wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone eager to explore Tasmania’s wild coast without straying too far from Port Arthur.
Bottom Line: An immersive, wildlife-packed cruise with expert commentary, ideal for those wanting a comprehensive coastal experience.
3. Hobart: Port Arthur, Harbor Cruise and Isle of the Dead Tour
For travelers based in Hobart, this full-day tour combines history and scenery with a harbor cruise and guided walk around the Isle of the Dead. It’s a well-rounded way to learn about Port Arthur’s convict past while enjoying the stunning coastline.
This tour includes streamlined entry to the Port Arthur Historic Site, saving you time, plus a scenic cruise around Carnarvon Bay. You’ll get a 1-hour guided walk on the Isle of the Dead, a fascinating cemetery island with stories of convicts and settlers. The trip also visits Remarkable Cave and Maingon Bay Lookout, offering spectacular views.
Rated 4.7/5 from 134 reviews, travelers appreciate the smooth logistics and informative guides. The $119 price makes it a good value for those short on time but eager to see the highlights.
Best suited for history buffs and those wanting a comprehensive day trip, this experience blends education with scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Combines boat, walking, and cultural highlights for a full-day experience that brings Port Arthur’s past and coastline vividly to life.
4. Port Arthur: Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise
The Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise is a 1.5-hour trip focused on spectacular cliffs, caves, and dolerite columns. Departing from Port Arthur Historic Site, this cruise is a must for lovers of geology and dramatic scenery.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to see Cape Raoul’s towering rock formations—some resembling giant steps descending into the sea. You’ll cruise past Point Puer and the Isle of the Dead, gaining perspective on Tasmania’s maritime history. Wildlife fans will enjoy spotting Australian fur seals lounging at the cliff bases and watching seabirds soar overhead.
Rated 4.8/5 from 37 reviews, travelers describe the trip as “amazing” and “gorgeous,” often highlighting the crew’s friendly attitude and the incredible natural scenery. For $86, it’s a budget-friendly option that packs a punch in visual drama.
Ideal for shorter excursions or those with limited time, this cruise offers a condensed taste of Tasmania’s coastal wilderness with an emphasis on geological marvels and wildlife.
Bottom Line: A focused, scenic cruise perfect for geology buffs and anyone wanting high-impact views in a short timeframe.
5. Cruise Ship – Port Arthur Shore Excursion – Hobart
This tailored shore excursion is designed specifically for cruise travelers docking in Hobart. It’s flexible, with a duration of about 6.5 hours, and can be customized to fit your schedule.
Highlights include a visit to the Port Arthur Historic Site, with cruise-in options in Carnarvon Bay, and stops at local producers like the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry and Lavender Farm. The small group size ensures personalized attention and better access to sites.
Rated 4.8/5 from 13 reviews, travelers praise the tour’s flexibility and local flavor. The $158 price reflects the personalized service and diverse experiences packed into the day.
This tour is best suited for cruise visitors who want to maximize their time and experience both history and local Tasmanian products.
Bottom Line: A flexible, personalized option perfect for cruise passengers wanting to see Port Arthur and taste the region’s best.
6. 90 minute Cape Raoul Cruise and Port Arthur Historic Site entry
Rounding out our list is the 90-minute Cape Raoul Cruise, which combines a shorter scenic boat trip with Port Arthur Historic Site entry. Priced at about $118.79, it offers a balance of natural spectacle and cultural depth.
The cruise whisks you beyond the historic ruins to see Cape Raoul’s jagged cliffs and caves, with white sands of Safety Cove and Crescent Bay. The highlight is viewing the columnar dolerite formations that look like giant steps into the ocean. Seal sightings at the cliffs are common, and you’ll also cruise past Point Puer and the Isle of the Dead.
Rated perfect 5/5 by recent reviewers, it’s a compact but memorable experience ideal for travelers with limited time who want the best of both worlds—coastal scenery and history.
Bottom Line: A short, high-impact cruise that pairs scenic coastlines with access to Port Arthur’s historic core.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Port Arthur
When deciding which boat tour suits your interests, consider your budget, time, and what you’re eager to see. For wildlife lovers, the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise offers the most wildlife encounters and scenic cliffs. If history and culture are your focus, the Hobart day tour or the shore excursion would be ideal.
For those pressed for time but craving impressive geology, the Cape Raoul Cruise offers a quick yet stunning view of Tasmania’s coast. Budget travelers may prefer the Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise, which provides excellent scenery for less.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Port Arthur’s waters provide a variety of boat tours that cater to wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, and scenery lovers alike. For a full immersion in Tasmania’s coastal wilderness, the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise stands out. Meanwhile, history lovers should consider combining a harbor cruise with a walk around the Isle of the Dead.
If you’re short on time, the Cape Raoul Cruise is an excellent way to see Tasmania’s magnificent cliffs without a long commitment. No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable maritime adventures.