Shore Excursion – Port Arthur – Tasman Peninsula

Experience the Best of Tasmania with a Shore Excursion to Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula

When your cruise ship docks at Port Arthur, you have a fantastic opportunity to explore some of Tasmania’s most captivating sights without straying too far from the dock. This half-day tour, priced at just over $67 per person and lasting around three hours, offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, local foods, and fascinating landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Devils Kitchen, Tasman Arch, sample handmade chocolates, and enjoy fresh seafood at the Blowhole, all with port pickup and drop-off included.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour are the well-structured stops that combine scenic vistas with authentic tastes—perfect for those who want to see the land and indulge in some of Tasmania’s best local products. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and the live commentary keeps things engaging and educational.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour can occasionally feel a bit rushed, especially if there’s any delay at the start, as one reviewer mentioned. So, if you’re someone who values a very relaxed pace, it’s worth being aware of the tight schedule. This tour is best suited for cruise passengers who want a compact, yet comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s highlights, especially if you’re eager to combine scenic views with local flavors.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending nature, history, and local foods
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Inclusion of port pickup and drop-off adds convenience
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling with lively commentary
• Authentic tastings including chocolates, seafood, and lavender products
• Flexible options for different interests, from natural wonders to culinary delights

If you’re visiting Port Arthur by cruise, this tour offers an excellent way to make the most of your limited time ashore. It’s designed to hit some of the most visually stunning and tastebud-pleasing spots on the Tasman Peninsula, all within a compact three-hour window. The price of $67.12 is quite reasonable for such an experience, especially considering that most travelers book this tour about 70 days in advance—a sign of its popularity.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour begins at the Port Arthur Historic Site, a place cloaked in history and drama. From the start, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned mini bus, which is a comfortable and practical way to cover the distance between each stop. The small group size (up to 20) ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd or feel hurried.

Stop 1: Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry
Your sweet tooth will love this stop. The award-winning chocolate maker offers samples of handmade chocolates that have drawn praise from visitors—some calling it a “delicious” experience. With free admission, it’s a treat for your senses and a good way to start your journey.

Stop 2: Doo-lishus Fish and Chips
Next is a classic Tasmanian experience—fresh seafood. This local fish van offers seafood platters and oysters that get rave reviews for their freshness. Visitors describe the food as “brilliant” and “not to be missed,” making it a highlight for seafood lovers. Note, cash only.

Stop 3: Tasman National Park and Geological Wonders
One of the most breathtaking parts of the tour is the visit to Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen—some of the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. These natural rock formations are jaw-dropping and provide excellent photo opportunities. We loved the way guides bring these sites alive with stories about their formations, making the scenery even more impressive.

Stop 4: Port Arthur Lavender Farm
A peaceful change of pace, this stop has you strolling through lavender trails and browsing handmade crafts. Visitors mention the “scenic lavender trail” and unique products made from lavender, which add a floral aroma to the trip. It’s a charming stop, especially for those who enjoy botanical sights.

Stop 5: Port Arthur Historic Site
Finally, you’ll visit the famous Port Arthur Historic Site, with optional time to explore gardens and the gift shop. It’s a chance to soak in the atmosphere and learn about Tasmania’s convict past through guided commentary from your guide, like Mark or David, who many reviewers praise for their knowledge and storytelling.

The blend of natural scenery, historic sites, and food tastings makes this tour appealing to a wide range of travelers. We loved the way guides keep the journey lively with engaging stories about Tasmania’s convict past and local traditions.

The food tastings, especially at the chocolate shop and seafood stop, add flavor—literally—and give the tour a tasty edge over more straightforward sightseeing trips. Plus, the port pickup and drop-off mean you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics or missing your ship.

The small group size ensures a more intimate atmosphere, where guides can answer questions and tailor their commentary. This aspect adds a layer of value for those who want a more personal touch.

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the tour can be a bit rushed, especially if there are delays at the start. One traveler noted that their experience was “a little hurried” due to timing constraints, which can be frustrating if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, the food lines during peak season can sometimes extend the journey’s timeline, impacting the schedule.

It’s always good to be aware that this is a short, tightly packed excursion—perfect for a quick taste of Tasmania but not for deep exploration. If you’re someone who loves to linger over each site or take long walks, you might find this a bit hurried.

This is ideal for cruise travelers looking for a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s highlights. It’s perfect if you want a balance of scenic views, local foods, and history without spending a full day on tour. Those who appreciate small group settings and engaging guides will find this especially enjoyable. Foodies will love the tastings, and nature lovers will enjoy the views of Devils Kitchen and Tasman Arch.

However, if you’re seeking an in-depth exploration or a very relaxed experience, you might prefer to allocate more time for each stop or look for longer, more leisurely tours.

In all, this Port Arthur shore excursion from Tassie Tours combines scenic natural wonders, delicious local foods, and engaging storytelling into a compact and manageable experience. It offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of port pickup and drop-off, and the small group size ensures a personal feel.

It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want to maximize their brief time ashore without feeling rushed. The tour’s highlights—like Devils Kitchen, Tasman Arch, and the chocolate and seafood tastings—are memorable, making it a satisfying way to taste Tasmania’s diverse charm.

While the pace may be brisk for some, most travelers walk away with a good sense of the land, history, and flavors that make Tasmania special. For anyone seeking a convenient, fun, and informative snapshot of the Tasman Peninsula, this tour hits the mark.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately three hours, including multiple stops around the Tasman Peninsula.

Is food included in the tour?
No, the tour includes food tastings at the chocolate factory, seafood stop, and lavender farm, but not a full meal.

What transportation is used?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned mini bus, which comfortably fits up to 20 travelers.

Are port pickup and drop-off provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Port Arthur Historic Site for convenience.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but since stops involve walking and some uneven terrain, it’s best to consider mobility needs.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 70 days ahead, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s highlights—delivered with a personal touch and good humor.