Port Arthur, Richmond and Tassie Devils Active Tour from Hobart

A Full-Day Tour of Tasmania’s Highlights from Hobart

If you’re after a day packed with adventure, history, and wildlife on the island of Tasmania, this tour from Hobart offers an energetic way to see a lot in just over ten hours. For $132.21 per person, you’ll explore the dramatic Tasman Peninsula, visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, watch Tasmanian Devils feeding, hike along rugged coastlines, and enjoy a charming stop in the historic town of Richmond. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour is designed for those who want to pack their day with as much as possible.

What we love about this experience is its combination of spectacular scenery and fascinating stories, delivered by guides who clearly enjoy sharing their knowledge. The Waterfall Bay Cliff Walk offers breathtaking views that will stay in your memory, and the chance to see Tasmanian Devils in action is something truly special. Plus, the inclusion of all entrance fees and a harbor cruise makes for excellent value.

A potential consideration is that the day moves quickly — it’s busy, with lots of stops, and some travelers might wish for more time at certain locations, like Richmond or the Unzoo. Also, it’s a physically active tour, so be prepared for some walking and undulating trails, and bring sun protection and a jacket depending on the weather.

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Tasmania’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving. If you’re short on time but eager to experience diverse landscapes, historic sites, and wildlife, this tour offers a well-balanced snapshot.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day: Combines coastal walks, wildlife, history, and scenic drives.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts enrich the experience with stories and insights.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, a harbor cruise, and Tasmanian Devil feeding are covered.
• Active and Short: Includes walking, hiking, and sightseeing, suited for those with moderate fitness.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up views of Tasmanian Devils and free-roaming kangaroos.
• Time Management: Tight schedule requires brisk pace, especially at Port Arthur and Richmond.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Early Departure and Tasman Peninsula

The day kicks off bright and early at 7:30 am with a quick drive from Hobart’s central meeting point. From there, it’s all about covering ground in a fast-paced manner, but that’s what makes it ideal if you’re short on time. The first stops are Pirates Bay and Eaglehawk Neck, where the scenery is dramatic and the history of the area is captivating. The coastal views are stunning, and the stories about the area’s past add a layer of storytelling to the scenery.

A recurring theme on this tour is spectacular coastal scenery. We loved the way guides shared stories about the Dogline — the historic defensive barrier used against convicts — alongside the natural beauty of rugged cliffs and ocean vistas.

Tasmanian National Park and Waterfall Bay Walk

Next, you’ll visit Tasmanian National Park, passing through Eaglehawk Neck. Here, the guides often share local tales that help bring the landscape alive. The highlight for many is the Waterfall Bay Cliff Top Walk, a 45-minute easy trail with breathtaking ocean views and iconic rock formations like Tasmans Arch and Devils Kitchen.

Our reviewer noted, “Every overlook was another beautiful view,” and that’s exactly what this walk delivers. It’s undulating but manageable, and the vistas are worth every step. We’d recommend bringing sunscreen and a hat, as the exposed coastline can get quite sunny.

Meeting the Tasmanian Devils

The next stop is the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, a highlight for many visitors. Unlike traditional zoos, this place allows the animals to roam freely in open spaces, giving a more authentic experience. Watching the devil feeding is a lively spectacle — snarling, fighting, and bone-crushing — and the guides are experts at sharing insights.

One reviewer remarked, “Seeing the Tasmanian Devils in action was amazing,” and many found this to be the absolute highlight of their day. The opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos in a cage-free environment** adds to the appeal.

Port Arthur Historic Site

The centerpiece of the tour is the Port Arthur Historic Site, a former penal colony with a somber, moving atmosphere. Your entrance fee is included, and you get about three hours to explore. The site offers a wealth of buildings, ruins, and exhibits to absorb history at your own pace. Several reviews mention that, given the size of the site, it’s a rushed visit if you want to see everything — so prioritize what interests you most.

Guided tours are available but often book out early, so planning ahead is wise. There’s also a harbor cruise included, which provides a relaxing perspective on Port Arthur’s rugged coastline, adding a different dimension to the visit.

Historic Richmond and Return Journey

On the way back to Hobart, the tour stops for about 45 minutes in Richmond, a charming town famous for its historic bridge and sweet shops. Many visitors enjoy wandering the streets, visiting the Lolly Shop, or grabbing ice cream. Some reviewers felt they wanted more time here, especially those interested in browsing shops or taking pictures.

The final leg of the tour offers a chance to reflect on the day while passing scenic views and capturing last-minute photos. The tour concludes back at the starting point in Hobart.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation is by comfortable minibus, with a maximum group size of 20, fostering a friendly atmosphere. The tour begins early at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an active day — especially if you’re not used to a lot of walking. Some reviews mention that the walks and hikes are manageable but require moderate fitness.

Cost-wise, the inclusion of entrance fees, the harbor cruise, and the Tasmanian Devil feeding make this a good deal. There’s no need to worry about extra costs at key stops, which adds peace of mind. However, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning to buy lunch at Port Arthur is wise — the site offers multiple options.

What to bring? Cell reception is generally good, but WiFi and charging ports are unavailable on the bus — so bring a power bank and camera. Sunscreen, a hat, and a jacket might be necessary depending on the season.

Authentic Encounters and Why It Works

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. They make stories come alive, whether discussing the penal history at Port Arthur or the local wildlife. The opportunity to see Tasmanian Devils feeding close-up is a rare chance and worth the trip for animal lovers.

The scenery — from rugged coastlines to historic towns — adds natural beauty and a sense of place. The walks along the cliffs are manageable but offer breathtaking views, making this tour not just about culture and history but also about connecting with Tasmania’s stunning outdoors.

Reviewers also appreciated the good value for money, especially given the included attractions and activities. While some felt the day was busy, most agreed it was worth the effort to see so much in one go.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who appreciate a mix of history, wildlife, and outdoor scenery. If you’re comfortable walking and want to maximize your time in Tasmania without renting a car, this tour hits many highlights efficiently. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys learning through storytelling and prefers guided insights over self-led exploration.

Travelers with a passion for wildlife will love the chance to see Tasmanian Devils and kangaroos in naturalistic environments, while history buffs will appreciate the detailed stories about penal colonies and convict history. It’s a long day, but one filled with diverse experiences that create a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees to the attractions visited — including Port Arthur and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo — plus the harbor cruise are covered. Guides are included, too.

How long is the walking involved?
There are walks such as the Waterfall Bay Cliff Walk, which takes about 45 minutes, and some additional walking around Port Arthur and Richmond. The walk at Waterfall Bay is easy and manageable for most.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While most of the walk is manageable, some reviews mention that the early morning coastal walk might be taxing for seniors with mobility issues. Children who enjoy active outings and wildlife will find plenty to enjoy, but always check with your group’s comfort level.

What should I bring?
A day pack, sunscreen, hat, water, and possibly a jacket depending on the weather. Note that there are no charging ports on the bus, so a power bank is recommended.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not provided, but there are options at Port Arthur’s café. It’s wise to bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during your free time.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 20 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

How early does the tour start?
It departs at 7:30 am from Hobart, so be prepared for an early start.

Can I customize this experience?
Since it’s a guided tour with a set itinerary, customization isn’t usually an option. However, booking ahead for guided tours at Port Arthur might give you more flexibility if you want to explore in depth.

Final Thoughts

This active tour from Hobart offers a rich mixture of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and historic sites, all within a single day. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience, giving you more context and connection to each stop. It’s a great way to see Tasmania’s diverse landscape without the stress of driving or planning multiple trips.

While it’s a long day with some brisk pacing, those who love a full itinerary will find it rewarding. The inclusion of special moments like Tasmanian Devil feeding and scenic coastal hikes makes this a memorable adventure.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, engaging day trip that hits many of Tasmania’s highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect for travelers eager to get a taste of the island’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history — all in one energetic package.