Leaving Hobart, the group will take a leisurely drive south along the Tasman Peninsula to Port Arthur, enjoying the spectacular scenery and learning about Tasmania’s historical past and the horrific fires of January 2012, along the way.
At the Port Arthur Historic Site one will experience a fascinating, 40 minute guided walking tour—a great introduction to Port Arthur, its people and its past. The tour is led by an experienced tour guide and provides an introduction to the most significant parts of Port Arthur, giving you a great foundation to continue exploring at your leisure.
Your entry fee includes a fully narrated 25 minute harbour cruise on board the MV Marana. The MV Marana will take you past the Dockyard, the Isle of the Dead Cemetery and the Point Puer Boys’ Prison. The on-board guide will provide commentary, introducing you to the maritime history of Port Arthur. You can also enjoy a warm drink, a bite to eat or even a local wine or beer, on board, as you take in the view.
The time allotted for the Port Arthur experience on this tour is two and a half hours, by which time most travellers are ready to resume their excursion.
Golf buggies are available for anyone not too steady on their feet. Refreshments are available in the restaurant situated at the main entrance (at own expense).
From Port Arthur, the tour will head for Richmond, stopping off at the Lavender Farm (optional), the quaint little hamlet of Doo Town, where each dwelling has its own unusual name, the Tasman Arch, the Blowhole and the Devil’s Kitchen. The group will continue to Richmond Historic Village where one can visit the historic goal, the oldest Catholic Church, the oldest Anglican Church, and the oldest convict constructed bridge in Australia, and a model of Hobart City as it was circa 1820.
You may also choose to include a trip to the top of Mt Wellington, for amazing views over Hobart and the surrounding area. Please note: If you have selected this option at the time of booking and the trip up the mountain is not possible on the day of travel due to bad weather conditions, you will receive a Hobart city tour as an alternative. This option may not always be available for Cruise Ship passengers who may have time constraints.