Magpie
4.7(99 reviews)

Grand Port Arthur & Isle of the Dead Tour

FromA$200
9 hours
Hobart, Australia

About this activity

Discover Tasmania's convict past with a guided tour of Port Arthur and a boat trip to the Isle of the Dead, offering historical insights and scenic beauty.

Highlights

  • Explore Port Arthur's historic penitentiary
  • Cruise to the haunting Isle of the Dead
  • Learn about convict history from expert guides
  • Stroll through the beautifully restored gardens
  • Capture stunning views of the Tasman Peninsula

Full description

Step back in time and immerse yourself in Tasmania's rich convict history with this comprehensive 9-hour tour. Begin at the Port Arthur Historic Site, once a notorious penal colony, where you'll explore the well-preserved penitentiary, church, and gardens. An expert guide will share captivating stories of the convicts and their lives. Then, embark on a boat trip to the Isle of the Dead, the final resting place for many convicts and free settlers. As you cruise, enjoy panoramic views of the Tasman Peninsula and learn about the island's intriguing past. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-do for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Port Arthur Historic Site
  • Boat trip to Isle of the Dead
  • Expert commentary on historical significance
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

Travel across the Tasman Bridge into the Coal River Valley then onto the historic town of Richmond. Enjoy a short photo stop at the famous convict built Richmond Bridge.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

We continue on to the breathtaking Tasman Peninsula. Be in awe of the wonderful views from the Pirates Bay Lookout.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Rich in visual history, the Port Arthur Historic Site evokes a powerful sense of a past convict era and of early Australian settlement heritage. Explore at your own pace and enjoy complimentary site talks at key locations throughout the day, entry to the Port Arthur Gallery which includes interactive displays, a cruise on Carnarvon Bay and a one hour guided walking tour on the Isle of the Dead. Ask your guide about the FREE optional Remarkable Cave tour.

Duration: 5 hoursAdmission: YES
4

Experience the power of this rugged coastline. Take the walkway right down the mouth of the cave and feel the power of the waves.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: YES
5

An experience not to be missed! This is the perfect stop on our return to Hobart. Indulge the senses and browse amongst the huge range of hand-forged chocolate. Using the finest Belgian Coverture chocolate there’s sure to be something that tantalises the tastebuds. From the gift shop you can watch these delightful products being hand-made.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Children under 5 years old are free but must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Photography is allowed; however, tripods and drones are prohibited.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle for sun protection.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps
  • Infant Seats Available

Traveler reviews

4.7
99 reviews
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A wonderful tour

An absolutely wonderful day. Very well organised. Barry our coach driver kept us entertained and was so knowledgeable. Port Arthur itself is haunting and beautiful. The Isle of the Dead tour was definately a highlight not to be missed. Our guide was a true wealth of knowledge and a wonderful narrator of the history of the site and it's characters. So glad we did this. The chocolate factory stop on the way home was great.

Sylvie-n-JoeApr 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Was an amazing experience...

Was an amazing experience and Phill our driver had a very good knowledge that he shared with the group. Good sense of humour too.

Annick_PApr 3, 2026VIATOR

Awesome

Phil the driver made this trip. Highly informative and a grand sense of humour. Run with this lot - they're great.

Discover50302373429Mar 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Very good

Very good . The driver Phip was excellent.

R663XHshanepMar 11, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Satisfying

The bus driver is an excellent storyteller and very pleasant

252pingcMar 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR
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