Port Arthur is a haven for travelers seeking more than just a quick look at Tasmania’s rugged coastline and fascinating history. The area’s extraordinary coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife-rich waters make it a natural playground for boat tours and outdoor adventures. Among the many options, the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise stands out for its jaw-dropping sea cliffs, deep sea caves, waterfalls, and seals — a must-do for anyone who loves spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing. Meanwhile, the Port Arthur Historic Site offers a deep dive into Australia’s convict past, especially if you’re a history buff interested in exploring well-preserved ruins and hearing engaging stories. For those seeking a thrill, the Ghost Tours add a spooky twist to your visit, turning the historical site into a haunted playground after dark.
If you prefer a mix of adventure and history, the Hobart day trip with a harbor cruise and Isle of the Dead tour offers a balanced experience. For active travelers, the full-day kayaking tour lets you paddle past towering cliffs and water-carved caves. Whatever your interest, Port Arthur’s varied tours promise a memorable experience—just be sure to book early, as these popular trips fill up fast.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a broad mix of wildlife cruises, historic site visits, ghost walks, and adventure tours. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat trip or an energetic outdoor activity, there’s something here for everyone. Some tours, like the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise, are packed with wildlife sightings and stunning vistas. Others, like the Port Arthur Historic Site, focus on immersing you in Australia’s convict past. For thrill-seekers, the full-day kayaking provides an up-close look at cliffs, caves, and seals. Read on for detailed insights into each experience.
1. From Port Arthur: Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise offers an unforgettable three-hour trip along the stunning coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck. This cruise is renowned for its jaw-dropping natural beauty, including the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a photographers’ paradise, with chances to see deep sea caves, archways, waterfalls, and blowholes carved into the rugged coastline.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat: hundreds of seals basking on rocks, thousands of seabirds, and frequent sightings of dolphins, migrating whales, and even albatross. The boat’s crew is knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories and fun facts throughout the trip. With excellent reviews and a 4.9-star rating from 660 travelers, it’s clear this trip offers great value for the price of $119. Expect a smooth ride with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable wildlife encounters. It’s best suited for those who love nature, wildlife, and dramatic scenery.
Bottom Line: This cruise is a top pick for nature lovers wanting a combination of wildlife and awe-inspiring views in a short, well-organized trip.
2. 3-Hour Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise from Port Arthur
Coming in at number 2 is the 3-Hour Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise. This tour is perfect if you want a deeper look at the sheer rugged coastline and vertical sea cliffs that define Tasmania’s south. Departing daily from Port Arthur, the cruise navigates between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck, giving you panoramic views of the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
The real draw here is the chance to see deep sea caves, spot native albatrosses, eagles, dolphins, and seals, all in their natural environment. Guests appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable guides, with many reviews praising the trip for its value and scenic beauty. A typical review states, “This ferry ride is good value for money… sharing fun facts along the way.” For $122.04, you get a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife watching, stunning coastlines, and expert narration. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the wild side of Tasmania’s coast without the commitment of a full-day tour.
Bottom Line: A beautifully curated trip to see Tasmania’s majestic cliffs and wildlife, especially suited for those wanting a shorter but impactful cruise.
3. Port Arthur Historic Site Admission and Tour Options
Number 3 on our list is the Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site that vividly brings Australia’s convict past to life. For $35, you can explore at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour, participate in daily site talks, and even hop on a harbor cruise around the Isle of the Dead. This flexibility makes it ideal for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The site covers 100 acres, with over 30 historic buildings and ruins including the Convict Water Supply Trail, the Museum, and the Convict Study Centre.
The reviews are glowing, with visitors appreciating the chance to wander freely and learn from engaging guides. One reviewer mentions, “Great insight into our history. Well laid out.” The site’s preservation and interpretive programs make it a top choice for an immersive experience, especially if you’re interested in understanding Australia’s early penal colonies.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, flexible way to explore Tasmania’s convict history, perfect for history buffs or families wanting an easy day out.
4. Port Arthur Historic Site [official]
![Port Arthur Historic Site [official]](https://happytovisit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/port-arthur-historic-site-official.jpg)
At number 4, the official 2-day pass allows you to truly learn about the site’s history, covering over 30 ruins and buildings with in-depth guided or self-guided tours. For around $36, the pass includes a harbor cruise, access to the Museum, and daily talks. You can spend hours wandering the grounds, following the Convict Water Supply Trail, or visiting the Dockyards.
Guests often comment on the site’s well-preserved buildings and the quality of the interpretive materials. One reviewer says, “A lot to see, requires at least half a day,” highlighting its value as a comprehensive experience. The two-day ticket makes it ideal for those who want to take their time or revisit parts of the site.
Bottom Line: If you’re a history enthusiast wanting a thorough exploration, the 2-day pass offers excellent flexibility and depth.
5. Hobart: Port Arthur, Harbor Cruise and Isle of the Dead Tour
Number 5 is a full-day guided tour from Hobart, combining Port Arthur with a harbor cruise and Isle of the Dead. The trip includes streamlined entry, saving you time and hassle. You’ll visit Tasman National Park, see Remarkable Cave, and enjoy a guided walk around Isle of the Dead—a cemetery island with fascinating history.
This tour, priced at $119, offers a good mix of nature, history, and scenery. Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and the seamless experience. It’s a great choice if you want to cover more ground in a single day without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one day trip with expert narration and scenic boat rides.
6. Port Arthur Historic Site Ghost Tour
Number 6 is the Ghost Tour, a 1.5-hour lantern-lit walk that reveals Port Arthur’s haunted tales. For $23, you get an atmospheric experience, walking through ruins and hearing ghost stories that date back 25 years. The tour’s guides share spooky stories, making it ideal for those who enjoy a thrill and a bit of history with a supernatural twist.
Guests describe the atmosphere as “creepy and informative,” and many appreciate the exclusive after-hours access. If you’re into ghost stories or want to see the site in a different, mysterious light, this tour offers a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Bottom Line: A fun, spooky way to explore Port Arthur after dark—perfect for thrill-seekers or those interested in paranormal tales.
7. Tasman Peninsula full day kayaking tour
If you’re seeking an active adventure, the full-day kayaking tour ranks high. For about $189, you’ll paddle past dramatic cliffs, caves, and a semi-submerged shipwreck. This small-group tour (max 10 travelers) includes transport, a gourmet lunch in a secluded cove, and the chance to spot seals, dolphins, sea eagles, and even whales.
Guides Luke and Misha have garnered rave reviews for their professionalism and knowledge, making this a memorable day on the water. It’s suited for travelers with some paddling experience, comfortable with outdoor activity, and eager to get close to Tasmania’s rugged coast.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers wanting a personalized, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience on the water.
8. Port Arthur: Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise
Number 8, the Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise, takes you on a 1.5-hour journey to see towering dolerite columns, caves, and arches. During the cruise, you’ll spot Point Puer and Isle of the Dead, along with the white sands of Safety Cove. This tour captures the raw beauty of the Tasman Peninsula.
Rated 4.8 stars from 37 reviews, passengers rave about the “amazing” scenery and friendly crew. It’s perfect if you want an intimate boat trip that highlights the dramatic coastal geology and marine life, especially seals lounging at the cliffs’ base.
Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic cruise for those interested in geology, wildlife, and dramatic coastline views.
9. Port Arthur Ghost Tour
Another ghostly option, the Port Arthur Ghost Tour, runs for about 1.5 hours. It’s a shorter, more intense experience, focusing on paranormal tales and haunted sites. For just over $23, the lantern-lit walk reveals stories of ghostly footsteps, unexplained sounds, and the eerie atmosphere of the former penal colony.
Many reviewers note the “creepy and informative” storytelling, making it ideal for those interested in local legends and supernatural tales. This tour shares a different side of Port Arthur—its mysterious, haunted past.
Bottom Line: A quick but effective ghostly encounter, especially fun for those who enjoy a spooky story.
10. Shore Excursion – Port Arthur – Tasman Peninsula
Designed for cruise ship passengers, this half-day tour combines Tasmanian food tastings, scenic stops at Doo-lishus Fish Van, Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry, and the Lavender Farm. For around $67, you’ll get port pickup and drop-off and visits to Devils Kitchen and Tasman Arch.
It’s great for travelers wanting a taste of Tasmania’s culinary delights along with nature stops. Reviews praise the well-organized itinerary and friendly guides, making it an easy, enjoyable way to see highlights without overextending your day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers looking for a convenient, tasty introduction to Tasmania’s scenery and food.
11. Cruise Ship – Port Arthur Shore Excursion – Hobart
Number 11 offers a customized, half-day tour for cruise passengers based in Hobart. Costing around $158, it includes Port Arthur, Carnarvon Bay, and local producer visits like Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry. It’s flexible, tailored to your schedule, and perfect if you want a personalized, intimate experience.
Guests appreciate the small groups and local insights provided by guides. It’s ideal for travelers wishing to maximize their port time with a mix of history, scenery, and food.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for cruise travelers who want a customized, comfortable day exploring Tasmania.
12. 90-minute Cape Raoul Cruise and Port Arthur Historic Site entry
This combo tour offers a 90-minute wilderness cruise around the Cape Raoul cliffs, plus entry to the Port Arthur Historic Site. At $118.79 per person, it’s a good way to combine coastal scenery with historic exploration.
Rated a perfect 5.0, travelers highlight the grand cliff scenery and friendly crew. The cruise offers views of the white sands of Safety Cove and seal sightings at the cliffs’ base, making it especially appealing for geology and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic day combining boat views and history at a reasonable price.
13. Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula Full-Day Escapes from Hobart
Finally, our number 13 is a full-day guided walk through Tasmania’s Tasman National Park. For just $99, you’ll witness spectacular coastal scenery, high cliffs, and wildlife sightings. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to dive into the wilderness and experience Tasmania’s untamed beauty firsthand.
Guests recount the magical scenery and the informative guides who share local insights. It’s perfect for those seeking a moderate outdoor adventure without the need for strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers wanting a guided nature walk in Tasmania’s stunning coastal landscapes.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your Port Arthur experience, think about your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If wildlife viewing and dramatic scenery top your list, the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise offers breathtaking vistas and marine animals. For history lovers, the Port Arthur Historic Site provides an in-depth look at Australia’s penal past, while active travelers might enjoy the full-day kayaking for its immersive water-based experience.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Ghost Tours or half-day shore excursions, which combine highlights with affordability. If you’re planning a cruise stop, the Hobart day trip offers convenience and variety in one package.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Port Arthur’s tours cover a broad spectrum: from wildlife-rich boat trips and scenic cruises to immersive historical explorations and ghostly tales. For families, the self-guided site visits are ideal—while adventure travelers will love kayaking and boat excursions. History enthusiasts should not miss the Port Arthur Historic Site, and thrill-seekers will find the ghost tours a perfect fit.
No matter your style, these experiences showcase Tasmania’s rugged coastline, fascinating history, and vibrant wildlife. Book your preferred tour early, and prepare for a memorable journey through one of Australia’s most captivating regions.