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Tasman Island Cruises provides unforgettable wilderness cruises along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania.

The cruise travels beneath the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere at Cape Pillar. Guests explore waterfalls, rock formations, archways and deep-sea caves.

The coastline is part of the Tasman National Park. It is home to a variety of wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales and abundant sea birds in their thousands.

At any time of year you're likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets, albatross and sea eagles wheeling on the wind, cliff-nesting cormorants and peregrine falcons, or a pod of playful dolphins surfing the bow wave of the boat.

The custom built yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular coastline and wildlife of the Tasman Peninsula. Each vessel holds a maximum of 43 guests. Covered open-air tiered seating means an excellent all-round view and connection with the environment. The boats have been created for these journeys and they are gentle on the environment due to their fuel efficiency and low emission operation.

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See Australia's highest sea cliffs

Encounter marine wildlife & seabirds

Keep a close lookout for sea eagles soaring above the cliffs, pods of dolphins surfing the bow wave, albatross wheeling on the wind and shearwaters skimming the swells. 

TOUR OPTIONS

The cruise departs daily from Port Arthur.  You can drive yourself to Port Arthur, or take our Full Day Tour from Hobart.

• Full Day Tour
• Full Day Tour + Devil Park
• Full Day Tour + Historic Site

Drive yourself to Port Arthur and join the cruise.

Cruise Times

Morning Cruise (All Year) Check in by 9.15am Cruise 10am to 1pm approximately 

Afternoon Cruise (peak periods) Check in by 1.15pm Cruise 2pm to 5pm approximately 

Getting There

The cruise starts and finishes at our Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre, located at 6961 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur 7182. This is on the left side of the road, 100m before the Port Arthur Historic Site entrance.

Guests should allow 90 minutes to drive from Hobart to Port Arthur. It is important that guests check in on time to allow for pre-cruise briefing and bus transfer to the boat.

Cruise Route

Each day we tailor the route of your cruise to make the most of the sea conditions between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.  Whichever route we take, you will always start and finish at our Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre in Port Arthur. 

Important Information

Make sure you dress warmly for the cruise - warm jackets, scarves, beanies and gloves are recommended. And don't forget your camera!

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability. Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions .

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking.

For information about accessibility, download our Accessibility Guide .

Our Flexible Cancellation Policy   

If you book directly with us, we have a very flexible cancellation policy:

• No cancellation fees if you need to cancel due to COVID  right up to the time of departure.  This includes if you are unwell or if you have to change your travel plans due to flight changes or travel restrictions.  We will happily move your booking to another day or provide you with a full refund.  Please note you need to advise us prior to departure so that we have an opportunity to re-sell the seats. 
• For non-COVID related cancellations our normal cancellation policy applies . We reserve the right to charge 100% for cancellations within 24 hours of departure.  Bookings are fully flexible up to 24 hours prior to the tour departure. 

Please note that if you book through a third-party website or travel agent, they each impose their own cancellation policies and restrictions.  

Duration   3 Hours Approximately

Operates   Daily, except Christmas Day

Departs From 6961 Arthur Highway Port Arthur TAS 7182 View on Map

Prices Adult $175 Child (3-16 yrs) $105 Family $540 (2 adults, 3 children)

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour

Take a Full Day Tour and spend a day on the Tasman Peninsula, including return guided bus tour, morning tea, lunch and our award-winning 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise.

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:15pm - Lunch, followed by local sightseeing 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Departure Point

The Full Day Tour departs from the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre.  This is situated on Hobart's waterfront on Franklin Wharf, next to the Constitution Dock Lifting Bridge.  Please check-in by 7.15am for a 7.30am departure.

If you have your own car, we don't have any parking available.  There is all-day parking available nearby at the Evans Street Car Park or Market Place Car Park - click here for more information .

Morning Tea & Lunch

Your day includes morning tea and lunch served at local restaurants on the Tasman Peninsula.

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.

For information about accessibility,  download our Accessibility Guide .

Duration   10¼ Hours Approximately (7:30am - 6:00pm)

Departs From Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Dock Head Building Franklin Wharf Hobart TAS 7000 View on Map

Prices Adult $265 Child (3-16 yrs) $195

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour + Tasmanian Devil Unzoo

Take a Full Day Tour and spend a day on the Tasman Peninsula, incorporating return guided bus tour from Hobart, our award-winning cruise, morning tea, lunch and a visit to the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo .  

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:15pm - Lunch 02:45pm - Visit Tasmanian Devil Unzoo 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Prices Adult $290 Child (3-16 yrs) $210

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour + Port Arthur Historic Site

This is the ultimate Tasman Peninsula day tour.  Your day includes return guided bus tour from Hobart, our award-winning 3 Hour Cruise, morning tea and lunch as part of three hours at the Port Arthur Historic Site .

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:30pm - 3 Hours at the Port Arthur Historic Site                     including lunch and time to explore 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Your day includes morning tea at a local cafe and lunch at the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Prices Adult $320 Child (3-16 yrs) $250

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More information.

Let us help you to make the most of your visit to the Tasman Peninsula.

Do I Need to Book?

We recommended booking a few days ahead as our boats are often full and you may be disappointed if you chance to just turn up on the day. We are flexible with bookings so it is not a problem if you decide to change to another day or cancel, whatever the reason. No fee is charged for cancellations before the cruise date (so long as you contact us).

What about the weather?

Our boats are designed to suit the coastline along which we travel and we will certainly make the most of any weather conditions. Our bookings are fully flexible so if you decide the weather on the day is not for you, you can give us a call and we can change your reservation to a different day. Our staff are upfront and honest about the weather and you are welcome to contact us a day or two ahead to get an honest indication of the forecasted weather. Of course, in Tasmania the weather can at times be a little surprising and so a forecast is exactly that, a forecast!

What about sea sickness?

Being in open ocean, sea sickness can be an issue for a small number of people. We have had 13 years experience in dealing with this and have developed some very effective techniques to minimise the chance of sea sickness occurring.

We offer all-natural Travel Calm Ginger tablets to everyone when they step onboard. This product has proven extremely effective in preventing sea sickness in most people. Our staff can also suggest a number of things to further assist in minimising the chances of any sea sickness symptoms:

• Selecting a seat in the back third of the boat (there is a lot less movement up the back of the boat)
• Keeping your body temperature on the cooler side
• If you wear glasses or sunglasses keep the lenses clean at all times
• Avoid looking through cameras, binoculars etc
• Stay away from acidic foods before the cruise such as Orange Juice and coffee

We do emphasise that communication is the key - if you have any concerns please let our staff know.

What do I need to wear?

It is important that you are adequately dressed because it is cold on the boats, even in summer. Warm jackets gloves, scarves & beanies are a good idea. We provide wet weather jackets which go over the top of your clothing, but we encourage you to bring a few warm layers of your own.

Can you cater for special dietary needs?

We use local cafes and restaurants for meals on our Full Day Tours. These venues are able to cater for most dietary requirements. Please mention any special requests to our staff when booking.

Can I do the cruise and Port Arthur Historic Site on the same day?

Yes, our Booking Centre is right next door to the Port Arthur Historic Site. Both can be done in the same day.

Are young children OK?

Children of all ages are welcome aboard our boats and we take many children along on our cruises. As parents you are probably the best judge as to how your children will cope with being out on the water for 3 hours, but we have found that the majority of children enjoy the experience and love seeing the amazing wildlife, huge cliffs and caves along the Bruny coastline.

Is the cruise OK while pregnant?

For the majority of days the cruise is quite suitable for pregnant women and we have had lots do our trip. Our boats are custom built for the coastline that we cruise along. They are able to cut through chop and therefore we can avoid the bumping of waves that some boats experience. It is a good idea to take into account the weather conditions on the day of the cruise as this will effect comfort levels for someone who is heavily pregnant. You can contact us a day or two ahead to get a weather report for the day of your cruise and we are happy to move or cancel bookings if it is not looking suitable for you.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

6961 Arthur Highway Port Arthur

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Tasman Island Cruises

• A full day tour including a 3 hour wilderness cruise

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Trip highlights

• View a variety of wildlife including seals, whales and sea birds.
• Witness the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere
• Explore waterfalls, rock formations, archways and deep-sea caves.

Take a full day tour from Hobart and spend a day on the Tasman Peninsula including guided return bus tour, 3 hour cruise, morning tea and lunch. Robert Pennicott's award winning three hour wilderness cruise takes you along the spectacular coastline between Eaglehawk Neck and Port Arthur. You will see Australia's highest sea cliffs, enter deep sea caves and join in the search for abundant sea and coastal wildlife, such as seals, dolphins and sea birds. The custom built boats are ideal for viewing dramatic coastline and wildlife with covered open-aired seating providing an excellent all round view and connection with the environment. This tour can also be extended to include Port Arthur Historic Site or Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park.

Activities:

Day 1 depart hobart, 3 hour cruise and return to hobart, what's included.

• Bus transfers to and from Hobart
• 3 hour jet boat cruise
• Morning Tea and Lunch

What's not included

• Travel to Hobart
• Alcoholic beverages
• Travel insurance
• Items of a personal nature

Discovery and Cruising

This is one of our least demanding trips. This cruise involve little extended activity and is suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. The itinerary takes place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and involves travelling by bus and jet boat. Sightseeing will be conducted on foot.

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Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole , which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals .

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Best Tasman Island Cruise Tours from Hobart, Tasmania (2024)

Visiting the Tasman Peninsula and taking a Tasman Island Cruise is one of the best day trips from Hobart. Witness towering cliffsides, deep sea caves, stark landscapes , and a chance to spot whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds . Boarding a Tasman cruise is one of the best Port Arthur tours from Hobart and one of my most memorable experiences. 

Tasman Island cruises come complete with a friendly (and very knowledgable) captain and crew from the award-winning Pennicot Wilderness Journeys , an open-air adventure vessel and a bright red jacket to block from wind and rain. 

This isn’t a casual, leisurely cruise like you might think, it’s an adventure cruise! So expect to be zipping along the coastline and launching over Tasman Sea waves on this Tasman boat cruise.

This detailed Tasman Peninsula Cruise guide will outline what to expect, the options you have available to you for combination tours to highlights like Port Arthur Historic Site or Tasmanian Devil Unzoo , and if you decide to stay overnight in Port Arthur before an early morning boat cruise, the best Port Arthur accommodation.

Are you looking for the best things to do in Hobart without a car, why not take one of the many exciting day trips from Hobart ? 

* This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

Map of Tasman Island & Tasman Peninsula from Hobart

Where is the Tasman Peninsula? Located about 90km east of Hobart, the Tasmanian peninsula stretched south to align with Bruny Island to the west. Tasman Island itself is positioned at the bottom tip of the peninsula and is the most southwesterly island in Tasmania. 

Tasman Island can only be reached by a Tasmania boat cruise from Port Arthur, the main town on the Tasman Peninsula, through Pennicott tours.

What to Expect on a Tasman Island Cruise

This Tasmania boat cruise is one of the top things to do in Tasmania and is a must along your Tasman adventure. Of course, due to the wild nature of the Tasmania boat tours, you should be comfortable speeding along open ocean waters. Again, this is not a ‘ cruise ’ cruise, it’s rather an exciting adventure.

Checking Into Your Tasman Island Cruise

If you happen to be renting a car in Tasmania and have made the journey to Port Arthur on your own, park your car at the Pennicott Tasman Island Cruise headquarters and check in at their front counter. You will need a printed or digital form of your Tasman Island Cruise admission and a form of ID. 

If you are planning your own Port Arthur tour from Hobart, make sure to get an early start, as they like all participants to be checked in by 9:15 AM and the journey takes a leisurely 1.5 hours from Hobart.

Next, they will direct you to a back shed to pick up your bright red wind and rain cover (essentially a waterproof poncho), for your Tasmania Island cruise. No need to throw it on now, because you’ll be boarding a bus after a briefing from your boat crew.

A friendly (and witty) boat crew member will give you the low down on how the Tasman Island Cruise is not a ‘cruise’ cruise and rather a thrill ride along the picturesque Tasman Australia coastline. He also explains that the crew will offer out sea sickness pills once you board the Tasmania cruise since most people end up needing them. 

After a few safety lessons, you are allowed one last chance to use the restroom before boarding the bus.

Getting to the Tasman Island Cruise Boat

Embark from the Pennicott Tasman Island Cruise headquarters in Port Arthur, making your way north to Pirates Bay on a big comfortable tour bus. In about 25-30 minutes you will arrive at the boat ramp at Pirates Bay, overlooking Eaglehawk Neck.

Once you arrive, now is the time to throw on that big red poncho and ready yourself for the incredible things you will see along the Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise. Once you’ve boarded the boat, the captain will introduce himself and explain what you will see on your journey. 

This is also the time they will offer out sea sickness pills (pure ginger tablets! Nothing scary here). I took them and am very glad I did since the captain said that we would be experiencing 6ft swells and a bumpy ride.

Your Tasmania boat trip should have lift-off by 10 AM.

What you Will See on the Tasman Island Cruise

Witnessing Tasmania by sea is something you’ll never forget. This Tasman Island 3 hour Wilderness Cruise will take you past some incredible landscapes, all while teaching you about the area and its wildlife.

Deep Sea Caves

Once you’ve sped out of Pirates Bay on your open-air vessel and turned south down the Port Arthur Peninsula coastline, you will pass by the iconic Devil’s Kitchen and Tasman Arch. These famous rock formations create a window where the frothing Tasman Sea meets the layered cliffs, creating a crushing effect.

Continue further, and your Tasman Peninsula eco cruise will stop to take a look at deep sea caves. These mysterious caves can only be entered if conditions are calm (they weren’t for us unfortunately), but even just witnessing how the turquoise waters lap heavily inside the cave is magical.

Waterfall Bay

Just when you thought the towering coastline couldn’t get any more picturesque, you arrive at Waterfall Bay. You can see a statuesque stream of water gushing down from the cliffside, far off in the distance. The thundering drop gets louder and louder as you approach the base of the waterfall, and the captain will take you up close and personal. 

TIP | If you have a camera, protect it from the waterfall spray!

Around the next corner of the coastline, the epic Tasman cruise in Tasmania will take you to calmer waters, sheltered in Canoe Bay. Besides trying your hand at spotting white-breasted sea eagles (endangered in Australia) nested amongst the tree canopy, you will float past the remains of a steel-hulled barge. 

In the 1940s, a barge named the William Pitt was used to construct the predecessor to the Tasman Bridge heading east out of downtown Hobart – a floating pontoon bridge. In 1955, the William Pitt was deliberately sunk to create a breakwater for smaller boats. This wreckage is what you will see in Canoe Bay.

If you have more time on the Tasman Peninsula, you can take a day to snorkel around this wreckage, it’s supposed to be great! On your way out of Canoe Bay, you will pass the white-sand paradise – Fortescue Bay Beach. This beach, as part of the Tasman National Park, makes for exciting hikes and camping.

The Monument at Cape Hauy

The Monument at Cape Hauy is one of the finest examples of volcanic dolerite cliffs along the Peninsula’s coastline. Boasting the 65-metre Totem Pole sea stack and equally as impressive Candlestick, it’s a road climbers’ mecca. 

With tumultuous waters splashing up against an almost sheer vertical cliff, rock climbers make bold and harrowing ascents up the Totem and Candlestick every year. 

Before wedging through the narrow and boisterous opening between the Totem Pole and Candlestick, you will get a closer look at the sea colony that dwells here. 

Tasman Island

The pinnacle of your journey on this Tasman Island Cruise, is, of course, Tasman Island. Just off the coast of the Tasman Peninsula and Cape Pillar, Tasman Island is home to one of Australia’s most inaccessible lighthouse stations. With only one all-steel lighthouse and three small buildings to out the lightkeeper and his family, the island suffered many strong storms.

Standing as the tallest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere, Tasman Island’s windswept and desolate nature tops out at 240 metres above sea level. With almost vertical cliff faces, a steam winch was constructed to move supplies and people from the turbulent Tasman Sea waters. You can still see the winch today. 

A colony of fur seals can also be found here on Tasman Island, for your second chance to see these wonderful seaborn creatures.

Tasman Wildlife

Depending on the time of year, you may have a special spotting of Southern Right Whales (we spotted one in the distance!), Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Minkie Whales or Pilot Whales. But, what you will likely see is one or two large colonies of Australian Fur Seals. In Canoe Bay, try your luck at spotting the elusive Sea Eagles in their large (often multi-storied nests). 

Out at sea, witness the marvel of the sheerwaters, which undertake the longest migration in the world, rarely landing, and the stunning Albatross as it floats around your Tasman Island Cruise vessel, often only flapping its expansive wings once or twice.

A Note About Your Tasman Island Cruise

In good conditions, you would head towards Port Arthur after seeing Tasman Island, whisking past Mount Brown toward the harbour. In my case, the swell was upwards of 6ft, so continuing around to the east of Tasman Island wasn’t possible. We headed back up the way we came along the western coastline to Pirates Bay.

If this happens to you, once you dock at Pirates Bay, take a few minutes to see the Blow Hole and Fossil Bay Lookout before hopping back on the bus to Port Arthur. 

Hobart to Port Arthur Tour Options

Now you have a few options when it comes to how you want to experience a Tasman Island Cruise. Firstly, you can definitely take the straightforward 3 hour Tasmania cruise from Port Arthur if you have your own car. But if you are spending a weekend in Hobart or plan to visit Hobart without a rental car, I have a few tour options for you. 

The Tasman Peninsula is also home to the famous UNESCO-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, a 19th-century penal colony, and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. Both are great options for your trip to the peninsula.

To get the most out of your Hobart to Port Arthur day trips, opt for one of these all-inclusive combination tours below:

1. 3-Hour Tasman Island Cruise from Port Arthur

Best For | Travellers with Rental Car Duration | 3 hours Tour Price | $155 AUD Start Times | 9:15 AM and 1:15 PM Book Tour | 3 Hour Tasman Island Cruise

First things first, if you are renting a car in Tasmania and have arrived in Port Arthur for a night or two, or are planning to make the drive from Hobart to Port Arthur yourself and want the flexibility to explore the Port Arthur Peninsula at your own pace, you can book the simple 3 hour Tasman Island Cruise in Tasmania. 

This will depart the Pennicott headquarters in Port Arthur (where you can also park your rental car) at either 9:15AM or 1:15PM and take care of the rest for you. This tour does not include transportation from Hobart or food.

2. Full-Day Tasman Island Cruise & Sightseeing

Best For | Travellers Staying in Hobart Duration | 10.25 hours Tour Price | $245 AUD Start Time | 7:30AM Book Tour | Full-Day Tasman Island Cruise & Sightseeing

If your only goal is to experience the Tasman Island Cruise from Hobart, this could be a great tour option for you. Board your comfy tour bus at the Hobart docks and make the 1.5-hour scenic drive to Port Arthur. Enjoy a morning tea while getting a safety briefing from the cruise team. 

Now it’s time to embark on your epic Tasman boat cruise. After witnessing the towering cliffs, wildlife and incredible nature, it’s time to dig into a big lunch. On the way back to Hobart, stop off at the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry and picturesque Port Arthur Lavender Farm before heading back to the city. 

This Port Arthur day trip from Hobart takes just over 10 hours, departing at 7:30 AM and returning to Hobart around 6 PM.

3. Tasman Island Cruise & Port Arthur Historic Site

Best For | History Buffs Duration | 10 hours Tour Price | $280 AUD Start Time | 7:30AM Book Tour | Tasman Island Cruise & Port Arthur Historic Site

This tour would be my top choice for a Port Arthur day tour from Hobart. I stayed two nights in Port Arthur with my own rental car, but I constructed an epic one day in the Port Arthur area that included a 3 hour Tasman cruise and a 3 hour exploration of the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur historic site. I thoroughly enjoyed it and so I recommend this tour for you to get the most out of the Tasman Peninsula.

• Scenic bus tour from Hobart to Port Arthur (departing at 7:30 AM)
• Morning Tea
• Port Arthur Historic Site (including 20-min Port Arthur Harbour Cruise)
• Hearty Lunch at a Local Restaurant
• 3 Hour Tasman Island Cruise
• Bus back to Hobart arriving around 5:30 PM

4. Tasman Island Cruise & Tasmanian Devil Unzoo

Best For | Wildlife Lovers Duration | 10.5 hours Tour Price | $265 AUD Start Time | 7:30AM Book Tour | Tasman Island Cruise & Tasmanian Devil Unzoo Tour

For all you wildlife lovers, get an up close and personal experience with the endangered Tasmanian Devil on this epic 10.5-hour day tour from Hobart to Port Arthur. After a 1.5-hour journey in a comfortable coach from Hobart, sip on your morning tea and ready yourself for an adventure on the Tasman Sea. 

After your 3 hour Tasman Peninsula cruise disembarks, enjoy a hearty lunch before spending a few hours in the Tasmania Devil Unzoo in Port Arthur. A great way to see Tasmanian wildlife in a wild setting (not captive!). Return by bus to Hobart at roughly 6 PM.

How to Get to Port Arthur from Hobart

If you are renting a car in Tasmania and need to make the Hobart to Port Arthur drive, you should expect the journey to take roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes (without stops). The distance from Hobart to Port Arthur is 90km. 

Take the Tasman Bridge from downtown Hobart heading west and continue on the A3 Highway. Continue straight onto the A9 Highway at the small village of Sorell. Continue on the A9 all the way to Port Arthur, crossing the scenic Eaglehawk Neck, connecting mainland Tasmania to the Tasman Peninsula.

NOTE | There is no longer a ferry from Hobart to Port Arthur , you will have to get from Hobart to Tasman Peninsula by rental car, bus or tour

Best Port Arthur Accommodation

Port Arthur Tasmania accommodation has something to offer everyone. From camping and caravan parks to boutique hotels. With so much to see on the Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur area, I recommend spending at least a night here, if not two (given you have enough time on your Tasmania itinerary).

The Cove On the Rocks

Port Arthur Villas

Stewart’s Bay Lodge

NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park

Other Day Trips from Hobart

Hobart is blessed with many day trip opportunities with a 30-minute to 2-hour drive from the city centre. My favourite is the gourmet haven of Bruny Island just south of Hobart. Take an epic Bruny Island tour and discover the island’s best produce and products, plus beautiful panoramic views from The Neck Lookout and Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

If you have your own car, follow this one day Bruny Island itinerary to see the island’s highlights. Or simply check out this detailed list of the best day trips from Hobart .

Staying a few nights in Hobart? Here are the best places to stay in Hobart and top hotels.

Tasmania Travel Planning Guide

► is it safe to rent a car in tasmania.

Absolutely, it is safe to rent a car in Tasmania. In fact, renting a car in Tasmania is the best way to see and explore the island .

You can make a very scenic lap of Tasmania in 10 days with your own rental vehicle. Plus public transportation between major tourist hubs in Tasmania is relatively limited.

► What is the best way to book my Tasmania accommodation?

I always use booking.com for all of my accommodation worldwide, and Tasmania is no exception. I stayed in some really epic places on my adventure around the island.

For more cozy apartment-style accommodation try VRBO (better and safer than Airbnb).

► Can you drink tap water in Tasmania?

Heck yes! Tasmania has some of the cleanest tap water in the world . Outside of a few small rural areas where this might not be the case, I really enjoyed drinking straight from the tap in Tasmania.

If you plan to do a lot of hiking in Tasmania, I recommend bringing my favourite self-filtering water bottle with you, just in case.

► What are the best day tours in Tasmania?

Taking a day tour in and around Tasmania is a must when visiting the island.

I highly recommend (and have been on!) the Tasman Island Cruise , the gourmet Bruny Island day tour , the Tamar Valley wine tour and the Gordon River Cruise .

More Tasmania Travel Guides

Best East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Hobart to Launceston Drive (2024)

Renting a Car in Tasmania: Advice on Driving in Tasmania in 2024

Best Tasmania Itinerary 10 Days: A Detailed Self-Drive Itinerary for Tasmania (2024)

Haley is the founder of the global travel blog, Haley Blackall Travel. She has travelled to 40+ countries across 5 continents over the last 15 years and is considered an expert in her field.

She loves to share honest first hand experience from her travels. Her goal is to help readers planning their next trip by providing in-depth travel guides and recommendations for her favourite boutique hotels, things to do and travel itineraries.

Haley focuses her expertise on countries such as Greece, Turkey, Italy, Costa Rica, Australia, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.

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• Bruny Island Cruises
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Explore Our Incredible Wilderness Journeys

Experience an unforgettable adventure with our multi-award winning team

Australian Tourism Legend Robert Pennicott and his team of passionate local staff have been sharing Tasmania's scenery, wildlife and produce since 1999. We now provide Bruny Island Cruises , Bruny Island Traveller , Iron Pot Cruises , Tasman Island Cruises , Tasmanian Seafood Seduction  and  Wineglass Bay Cruises .

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Our Journeys

Bruny Island Cruises Bruny Island Traveller Fluted Cape Walk Iron Pot Cruises Port Arthur Bus Service Tasman Island Cruises Tasmanian Seafood Seduction Three Capes Track Wineglass Bay Cruises

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3-Hour Tasman Peninsula Wilderness Cruise from Port Arthur

Take Robert Pennicott’s award winning three hour Tasman Island Cruise along the spectacular coastline between Eaglehawk Neck and Port Arthur.  See the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, enter deep sea caves observe rich wildlife such as seals, dolphins, sea eagles and albatross.  Departs daily (except Christmas Day) all year round from Port Arthur.

Itinerary This is a typical itinerary for this product

Stop At: Tasman Island, Tasmania, Australia

Marvel at the historic Tasman Island Lighthouse and haulage way.

Be awe inspired by the surrounding sea cliffs,the highest in the Southern Hemisphere.

Duration: 20 minutes

• Explore Explore places to stay Watch Video 7 Day Luxury Getaway 4 Day Tasmania Luxury Getaway Eat & Drink the World's Best Watch Video 5 Day Tasmania's Gourmet Sampler 3 Day Gourmet Hobart & Surrounds History and Culture Watch Video 8 Day History, Art and Nature Self Drive Package 7 Day Icons of Tasmania Coasts & Waterways Watch Video 8 Day Wilderness and Beaches Self Drive Package 5 Day East Coast Self Drive Package Explore Ancient Lands Watch Video 8 Day Tasmanian Wildlife and Wilderness Encounter Tour 6 Day Tasmanian Devil Encounter
• Where To Go Regions Hobart & South Launceston & North North West West Coast East Coast King Island Flinders Island Day Drives Huon Valley Day Drive Derwent Valley Day Drive Tamar Valley Day Drive Cradle Mountain Day Drive Bruny Island Day Drive Self-drive Itineraries Hobart to Port Arthur Port Arthur to Freycinet Freycinet to Launceston Launceston to Cradle Mountain Launceston to Stanley Stanley to Cradle Mountain Cradle Mountain to Strahan Strahan to Hobart Popular Places Hobart & South Hobart Richmond Port Arthur Bruny Island Three Capes Track Huonville Salamanca Markets Battery Point View All Launceston & North Launceston Grindelwald Tamar Valley Cataract Gorge Beaconsfield Mole Creek Derby Mountain Bike Park View All North West Overland Track Burnie Port Sorell Cradle Mountain Devonport Stanley View All East Coast Wineglass Bay Bay of Fires Freycinet Bicheno Maria Island Pyengana View All West Coast Strahan Queenstown View All King Island King Island View All Flinders Island Flinders Island View All Attractions North Cataract Gorge Overland Track Tarkine / Takayna Rainforest The Nut in Stanley Grindelwald World Heritage Sites Gunns Plains Caves Cradle Mountain Tamar Valley View All South Salamanca Markets MONA kunanyi / Mt. Wellington Cascade Brewery Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Tahune Air Walk Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tessellated Pavement Three Capes Track View All East Coast Wineglass Bay Bay of Fires Bicheno Blowhole Painted Cliffs Track Coles Bay Friendly Beaches Douglas-Apsley National Park Scamander Whalers Lookout Old Convict Road View All West Coast Gordon River West Coast Wilderness Railway Gordon River Dam Wall in the Wilderness Zeehan Horsetail Falls Nelson Falls Sheffield Iron Blow Lookout View All
• Things To Do Activities Outdoor Activities Hiking & Walking Mountain Biking Cycling Fishing Golf Kayaking & Canoeing View All Nature & Scenery National Parks Waterfalls Wildlife kunanyi / Mt. Wellington Scenic Flights & Helicopters Cruises & Boat Tours View All Wildlife Tasmanian Devil White Wallaby View All Multi-day Tours Top Picks 10 Day Deluxe Self Drive Package 7 Day Wild West Coast Self Drive Package Self Drive Tours 10 Day Deluxe Package 9 Day Tassie Icons - Hobart 8 Day Wilderness and Beaches 8 Day History & Nature 7 Day Wild West Coast 7 Day East Coast View All Bus Tours 7 Day Icons of Tasmania 4 Day Icons Tasmania 8 Day Tasmanian Wildlife and Wilderness 5 Day of Icons Tasmania 4 Day Private Tour Tasmania Wildlife Encounter View All Luxury Private Tours 7 Day Private Luxury Getaway 4 Day Tasmania Luxury Getaway 3 Day Gourmet Hobart Surrounds 7 Day Best of Golf Tasmania Tour 5 Day Luxury Self Drive Package View All Hikes, Outdoor & Adventure Overland Track Blue Derby Pods Ride Tarkine & Cradle Mountain Explorer Three Capes 3 Day Walk The Walls of Jerusalem Experience Wineglass Bay Beach Hike View All Popular Day Tours Top Picks Gordon River Cruises Tasmanian Seafood Seduction Cruises Tasman Island Cruise Wineglass Bay Cruise Gordon River Cruises Bruny Island Cruise Seafood Seduction Cruise Leven River Cruise Cataract Gorge Cruise Maria Island Cruise & Walk View All Sightseeing Tours Hobart City Scenic Flight West Coast Wilderness Rail Red Decker City Loop Port Arthur Day Tour Cliffs & Beaches Kayak kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer View All Food and Drink Bruny Island Gourmet Tour Highlights of Tas Wine Tour Tasmanian Seafood Experience Tamar Wine & Gin Tour Derwent Wine, Whisky & Cider Tamar Food and Wine Day Trip View All Adventure Tasman Peninsula Kayaking Scenic Flights and Helicopters Leven Canyon Day Trip King River Raft & Steam Bruny Island Day Sail Tahune Airwalk & Hastings Cave Tour View All
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• Plan Your Trip Day Drives Huon Valley Day Drive Derwent Valley Day Drive Tamar Valley Day Drive Cradle Mountain Day Drive Bruny Island Day Drive View All Self-Drive Itineraries Hobart to Port Arthur Port Arthur to Freycinet Freycinet to Launceston Launceston to Cradle Mountain Launceston to Stanley Stanley to Cradle Mountain Cradle Mountain to Strahan Strahan to Hobart View All Multi-Day Self Drive Tours
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Is the Tasman Sea Rough? (And the best time to cross it)

The Tasman Sea, the stretch of water between Australia and New Zealand, has gathered a reputation among sailors for being rough and treacherous. However, in truth the conditions vary depending on the season.

Is the Tasman Sea rough? As a result of the merging currents of the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Ocean, the Tasman Sea can be extremely rough. Sailing conditions vary according to the season with November to March regarded as the best time to cross the Tasman Sea in order to avoid the worst winter weather.

If you’re planning to venture into the Tasman Sea, there are a few things to bear in mind that can help make your journey easier. Read on for more details on the Tasman Sea and top tips on crossing this tough patch of water safely.

On this page:

What is the wave height on the tasman sea, what makes the tasman sea rough, how does the tasman sea compare to other seas, what is the distance between australia and new zealand via the tasman sea, how can i avoid rough seas, when is the best time to sail the tasman sea, crossing the tasman sea.

The wave height on the Tasman Sea is very dependent on the passage of weather systems across the region. Consequently, storm waves and swells generated by colliding weather systems can quickly reach heights of 15ft and more. To make matters worse, it is very difficult to predict when these kinds of waves will appear as the currents shift regularly.

The waters around New Zealand claim some of the highest waves in the world. The tallest wave on record in the Tasman Sea was 42.5m or 120ft, recorded by a rescue helicopter in 1998. This was the year that six people lost their lives during the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race. Most boats without modifications will capsize if breaking waves reach a height of 30% of the boat length.

The Tasman Sea is a marginal sea of the South Pacific Ocean, located between Australia and New Zealand, where the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Ocean meet. Named after the Dutch explorer Abel Janszoon Tasman, the Tasman Sea has become infamous for its rough seas. Unfortunately, it’s also unavoidable if you’re planning to sail between Australia and New Zealand.

The challenging conditions are largely thanks to the currents from the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Oceans, each of which have varying temperatures. Where the waters meet, the waves swell and as a result, the Tasman Sea can be extremely rough and unpredictable. Cyclones and storms are also regular features on the Tasman Sea, making sailing even more challenging.

The strongest current of the Tasman Sea is the East Australian Current. As the name suggests, it runs south down the Australian east coast from the tropics, specifically from the Coral Sea. In the summer, the East Australian Current runs as far as Sydney and sometimes Eden. Cold fronts sweeping up from the ‘Roaring Forties’, a belt of westerly winds, collide with the warmer Australian Current and this can lead to seriously high and steep waves, as well as frequent storms. This combination of current and wind adds to the dangerous sailing of the Tasman Sea.

On top of this explosive mix, the range of depths in the Tasman Sea helps to stir up the water even more. The Tasman Sea’s mid-ocean ridge, formed when Australia and New Zealand broke apart between 85 and 55 million years ago, is the largest underwater ridge in the region but there are many smaller ones too. The seafloor is dotted with mountains that range from hundreds of meters to thousands of meters. In addition, there are coral reefs to contend with, which have caused their own share of shipwrecks.

The Tasman Sea is regarded by many sailors as being one of the most dangerous stretches of water in the world. As well as the Tasman Sea, the Bass Strait between mainland Australia and Tasmania is also known for being very rough. Like the Tasman Sea, the Bass Strait is heavily influenced by weather patterns and at the same time, the severity of the waves varies depending on which side of the Strait you are on. The probability of encountering 3 meter or higher waves is approximately 30% at the western end of the Strait compared to approximately 15% in the North East.

Australia is not alone in having rough seas, however. Elsewhere in the world there are similarly challenging waters. One of the worst seas in the world is the Irminger Sea between Iceland and South Greenland. Located south of the Denmark Strait, the Irminger Sea is thought to be the windiest stretch of saltwater in the world. It is also one of the stormiest seas.

The South China Sea is another good contender for the roughest seas in the world. That region of the Pacific Ocean is controlled by monsoons and tropical typhoons, as well as cyclones, which batter the sea and any sailors who venture into those waters.

The direct route between Australia and New Zealand is roughly 1100 nautical miles, regardless of where you choose to depart from and arrive.

It can also be a good idea to add in a detour to Lord Howe Island on the way. This tiny island in the Tasman Sea lies 600 km or 320 nm east of Port Macquarie on the Australian coast and can be a useful stopping place if the weather is too bad. The Met Office on Lord Howe Island can give you a more accurate picture of the upcoming winds and weather patterns so you can wait for a good weather window before continuing on. If you choose to stop here, it will add about 200 nm to your overall route.

The easiest way to avoid rough seas is to make sure you always have the latest forecast. It is readily available so there is no reason not keep up to date during your journey, checking the weather regularly. Knowing the rate of movement of a pressure system can allow you to calculate roughly how long you have until you encounter it.

An old-fashioned barometer will also give you a good indication of the rate of change in air pressure, helping you to gauge the wind strength that will hit you. Understanding the conditions in advance should allow you to change course and position yourself so that you can avoid the worst of the storms or at least try to stay behind low-pressure systems. The worst thing you can do is ignore the warning signs and continue on your current course.

In all honesty, there is no month that is guaranteed to be smooth on the Tasman Sea! However, the ideal sailing season for the Tasman Sea is generally between November to March. This time of year is summer in the Southern Hemisphere so the weather tends to be fairer than during the rest of the year.

The waters are likely to be smoother around the summertime but bear in mind that the conditions are hugely dependent on the weather patterns. If you’re planning on making the crossing, you will need to get regular updates on forecasts before and during your trip. Even in the summer the sea can get messy.

Sailing during the winter, between April to October, is not advisable as there’s a higher probability that you will be sailing downwind and are more likely to experience stronger winds and rougher conditions. During the winter, the ‘roaring forties’ sweep up northwards bringing higher waves and a greater chance of gales or storms.

To coordinate your sailing itinerary, we have created a map with the typical sailing seasons around the world .

The Tasman Sea is a difficult and dangerous sea for sailors. Known as “the Ditch”, the Tasman Sea is notorious for being unpredictable and prone to storms. Many people have lost their lives making the crossing and ships have disappeared completely, leaving no trace. With this in mind, it is not a journey that should be taken lightly.

The conditions you find will be determined by the weather patterns and these need to be checked daily before and during your voyage. You can improve your chances of having a smooth crossing by being prepared and staying vigilant. The Tasman Sea is certainly rough but it’s not unmanageable. You may be lucky and have a trouble-free crossing. The most important thing is to expect the unexpected and be ready for the worst of conditions should they hit.

You state “Sailing during the winter, between April to October, is not advisable” Let me tell you that the best time to cross the Tasman from NZ to Aus, is after the cyclone season, and that makes it End April to end may for a safe crossing From Aus to NZ, the best time is October/November eg before the cyclone season. Nobody, in their right mind will cross the Tasman in the summer on a yacht!!!

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You may also like, the sailing seasons around the world (with map).

Knowing the sailing seasons around the world help you to plan your trip well. I've made a list of sailing conditions around the world, so you know where to go when.

9 Great Sailing Destinations Across the Pacific Coast

22 Beautiful Sailing Destinations for This Winter

The 15 Most Remarkable Sailing Schools in the World

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Bruny Island Cruises

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Winner of Australia's Best Tourist Attraction 2012, 2014, 2015

Bruny island cruises is an award-winning cruise exploring the rugged coastline of bruny island in southern tasmania..

Cruise alongside some of Australia's highest sea cliffs, beneath towering crags and drift up close to listen to the awesome 'Breathing Rock'. Enter Bruny Island's deep sea caves, pass through the narrow gap between the coast and 'The Monument' and feel the power of nature at the point where the Tasman Sea meets the might of the Southern Ocean.

Join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds. The highly trained interpretive guides love what they do - they work hard to ensure that the experience is fun, enjoyable, entertaining and informative.

The custom-built yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular Bruny Island coastline and wildlife. Each vessel holds a maximum of 43 guests. Covered open-air tiered seating means an excellent all-round view and connection with the Bruny Island environment. The boats have been created for these journeys and they are gentle on the environment due to their fuel efficiency, low emission and quiet operation.

Tour Options & Prices          Book Now   

Towering cliffs, caves and seastacks

Incredible encounters with wildlife

Keep a close lookout for sea eagles soaring above the cliffs, pods of dolphins surfing the bow wave, albatross wheeling on the wind and shearwaters skimming the swells.  At the Friars, you'll drift quietly past rare nesting seabirds and a large haul-out home to thousands of seals.  

TOUR OPTIONS

The cruise departs daily from Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.  You can drive yourself to Adventure Bay, or take our bus from Kettering or Hobart.

• Cruise + Bus from Kettering

Full Day Tour from Hobart

The cruise departs daily from Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.  If you have your own car, you can drive yourself to Adventure Bay and join the cruise.

Cruise Times

10:00am Cruise (1 December to 28 April) Catch 7:10, 7:50 or 8:10 Ferry from Kettering Check in by 9:30am, Cruise 10am to 1pm approximately

11:00am Cruise (All Year) Catch 7:50, 8:50 or 9:10am Ferry from Kettering Check in by 10.30am, Cruise 11am to 2pm approximately

1:30pm Cruise (1 December to 28 April) Catch 10:30, 10:50, 11:10 or 11:30 Ferry from Kettering Check in by 1pm, Cruise 1:30pm to 4:30pm approximately

Getting There

From Hobart, you'll need to drive 45 minutes south to the Bruny Island Ferry Terminal in Kettering. The Bruny Island Ferry is operated by SeaLink. We suggest arriving at the ferry terminal 30 minutes prior to the ferry departure. The SeaLink ferry crossing takes 15-20 minutes and once you're on Bruny Island, it's a 40 minute drive south to our visitor centre at 1005 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay.   Click here for Maps, Driving Directions and Bruny Island Ferry times .

Morning Tea & Lunch

Food is not included in the tour price.  Guests are welcome to bring their own food, or morning tea/lunch can be purchased from our  Bruny Island Cruises Restaurant . 

Important Information

Make sure you dress warmly for the cruise - warm jackets, scarves, beanies and gloves are recommended. And don't forget your camera!

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability.  Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions . 

If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms then you should not travel on our cruises. We would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking.   

For information about accessibility, download our Accessibility Guide .

Our Flexible Cancellation Policy   

If you book directly with us, we have a very flexible cancellation policy:

• No cancellation fees if you need to cancel due to COVID  right up to the time of departure.  This includes if you are unwell or if you have to change your travel plans due to flight changes or travel restrictions.  We will happily move your booking to another day or provide you with a full refund.  Please note you need to advise us prior to departure so that we have an opportunity to re-sell the seats. 
• For non-COVID related cancellations our normal cancellation policy applies . We reserve the right to charge 100% for cancellations within 24 hours of departure.  Bookings are fully flexible up to 24 hours prior to the tour departure. 

Please note that if you book through a third-party website or travel agent, they each impose their own cancellation policies and restrictions.  

Duration   3 Hours Approximately

Operates   Daily, except Christmas Day

Departs From 1005 Adventure Bay Road Adventure Bay Bruny Island View on Map

Prices Adult $175 Child (3-16 yrs) $105 Family $540 (2 adults, 3 children)

3 Hour Cruise + Bus from Kettering

Leave your car at Kettering and catch our daily tour bus, which joins up with the 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise.

Arrive by 8.30am to meet the bus at the Oyster Cove Marina in Kettering, where there is free parking available.  The tour includes the 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise, SeaLink ferry crossing and commentary from one of our local guides. 

08:30am - Arrive at our Kettering Meeting Point (Oyster Cove Marina) 09:00am - SeaLink Ferry Crossing  10:30am - Arrive at Adventure Bay 11:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 02:00pm - Cruise concludes 03:15pm - Bus departs for return journey 04:30pm - Ferry crossing 04:45pm - Arrive Kettering 

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability. Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions .

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Duration   8¼ Hours Approximately (8:30am - 4:45pm)

Departs From Oyster Cove Marina Kettering View on Map

Prices Adult $190 Child (3-16 yrs) $120 Family $600 (2 adults, 3 children)

Why not join our Full Day Tour from Hobart for the ultimate Bruny Island Cruises experience.  Your day includes return guided bus tour, SeaLink ferry crossing, 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise, morning tea, lunch and commentary from our local guides.  

07:45am - Departs from Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre 09:00am - SeaLink Ferry crossing  10.30am - Morning Tea at Adventure Bay 11:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 02:00pm - Cruise concludes, Lunch 03:15pm - Bus departs for return journey 04:30pm - Ferry crossing 05:30pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Departure Point

The Full Day Tour departs from the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre.  This is situated on Hobart's waterfront on Franklin Wharf, next to the Constitution Dock Lifting Bridge.  This is a short walk or taxi ride from most Hobart CBD hotels. Please check-in ready for a 7.45am departure. 

If you have your own car, we don't have any parking available.  There is all-day parking available nearby at the Evans Street Car Park or Market Place Car Park - click here for more information .

Your day includes morning tea and lunch served at our Bruny Island Cruises Restaurant . Morning tea is a freshly baked blueberry muffin and a hot/cold drink.  For lunch you can enjoy premium fish & chips, or delicious homemade pumpkin soup and a gourmet salad roll with your choice of Tasmanian Salmon or local ham.  Gluten free & vegetarian options available. Click here for more details .

Duration   9¾ Hours Approximately (7:45am - 5:30pm)

Departs From Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Dock Head Building Franklin Wharf Hobart TAS 7000 View on Map

Prices Adult $265 Child (3-16 yrs) $195

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Let us help you to make the most of your visit to Bruny Island.

Do I Need to Book?

We recommended booking a few days ahead as our boats are often full and you may be disappointed if you chance to just turn up on the day. We are flexible with bookings so it is not a problem if you decide to change to another day or cancel, whatever the reason. No fee is charged for cancellations before the cruise date (so long as you contact us).

What about the weather?

Our boats are designed to suit the coastline along which we travel and we will certainly make the most of any weather conditions. Our bookings are fully flexible so if you decide the weather on the day is not for you, you can give us a call and we can change your reservation to a different day. Our staff are upfront about the weather and you are welcome to contact us a day or two ahead to get an honest indication of the forecasted weather. Of course, in Tasmania the weather can at times be a little surprising and so a forecast is exactly that, a forecast!

What about sea sickness?

Being in open ocean, sea sickness can be an issue for a small number of people. We have had 13 years experience in dealing with this and have developed some very effective techniques to minimise the chance of sea sickness occurring.

We offer all-natural Travel Calm Ginger tablets to everyone when they step onboard. This product has proven extremely effective in preventing sea sickness in most people. Our staff can also suggest a number of things to further assist in minimising the chances of any sea sickness symptoms:

• Selecting a seat in the back third of the boat (there is a lot less movement up the back of the boat)
• Keeping your body temperature on the cooler side
• If you wear glasses or sunglasses keep the lenses clean at all times
• Avoid looking through cameras, binoculars etc
• Stay away from acidic foods before the cruise such as Orange Juice and coffee

We do emphasise that communication is the key - if you have any concerns please let our staff know.

What do I need to wear?

It is important that you are adequately dressed because it is cold on the boats, even in summer. Warm jackets gloves, scarves & beanies are a good idea. We provide wet weather jackets which go over the top of your clothing, but we encourage you to bring a few warm layers of your own.

Can hire cars go onto Bruny Island?

Generally Yes. The road from the Ferry Terminal to our Booking Centre in Adventure Bay is fully sealed - there is no need to travel on any gravel roads. There is a short ferry crossing, which is not normally a concern for hire car companies. If you are concerned, we suggest confirming with your hire car company whether there are any restrictions. Alternatively, you can always join our Kettering Bus Pick Up Service.

Are young children OK?

Children of all ages are welcome aboard our boats and we take many children along on our cruises. As parents you are probably the best judge as to how your children will cope with being out on the water for 3 hours, but we have found that the majority of children enjoy the experience and love seeing the amazing wildlife, huge cliffs and caves along the Bruny coastline.

Is the cruise OK while pregnant?

For the majority of days the cruise is quite suitable for pregnant women and we have had lots do our trip. Our boats are custom built for the coastline that we cruise along. They are able to cut through chop and therefore we can avoid the bumping of waves that some boats experience. It is a good idea to take into account the weather conditions on the day of the cruise as this will effect comfort levels for someone who is heavily pregnant. You can contact us a day or two ahead to get a weather report for the day of your cruise and we are happy to move or cancel bookings if it is not looking suitable for you.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

1005 Adventure Bay Road Bruny Island

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Best tips for cruising across the Tasman

By: Author Megan Singleton

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2019

Taking a Silversea cruise from New Zealand to Australia

If you’re like me and the thought of cruising the notoriously big Tasman Sea has put you off voyages between Australia and New Zealand, I have some tips below from captain Alessandro Zanello of Silversea’s Silver Muse ship, who I just sailed over the great divide with.

To be honest, I have turned down media invitations on cruises between Auckland and Sydney in the past for fear that the crossing would be vomitingly dreadful, but this latest opportunity was too good to pass up.

It started with a phone call on the Friday night from Sydney, while we were having a barbecue with friends, and she said “we know it’s short notice, but if you can get to Dunedin and on-board the Silver Muse by 1pm tomorrow, you can cruise for 4 nights via Fiordland to Burnie, Tasmania.” Had no idea where Burnie was, but that didn’t matter at this point.

My eyes lit up and of course when you present such an offer to your husband in front of friends, they think you’d be NUTS to turn it down. We decided not to be nuts.

I became mesmerised leaning over the balcony and watching the colours from inky black to white froth and baby blues.

But you can imagine the scurrying! First check the calendar (on the phone) to see what events/appointments we might be able to shuffle, then check Air NZ (phone app) to see what time and what price flights were between Auckland and Dunedin the next day. There was one flight available to get us in by the required time.

Silversea had offered to pay for my airfare, but I needed to cover my husband’s. It was do-able – around $200. Next check the weather reports to see what the sea would be like. Not that we’re anything close to meteorologists, but the isobars looked calm (little did we know there was a storm brewing in the Southern Ocean. More about that later…)

So we had our dinner together and shot home about 10pm to pack, set the alarm for 5.15am and bolted out of bed ready for our adventure (with a little trepidation, I’m not gonna lie) into the unknown.

Note: there is no Uber in Dunedin and a taxi from the airport to Port Chalmers is about NZ$120. Gulp!

Second note: all alcohol is included onboard the Silversea fleet so I felt I could justify it. Gulp…. 😉

Woodfired pizza by the pool for lunch!

It was raining in Dunedin when we landed about 9.30am and I felt so sorry for all the (mainly) American tourists who were pottering about in Port Chalmers township or heading out on excursions to places like Larnach Castle or the Albatros colony, or just for a shop in the Octagon. Don’t you get so sad when your country doesn’t show off its best self?

The Silversea crew were expecting us and we were driven by golf cart around the wharf to the boarding steps and were ushered through a scanner then into (what I now know to be) the Dolce Vita Lounge on the 5th deck where reception is.

Our personal butler Briston came to greet us and after signing the appropriate forms and handing over our passports for the duration (this is normal) we were led to our cabin.

Now would be a good time to watch this quick video I made of my 4 days condensed into 2 minutes…

Opening the door of cabin 905 and my eyes darted across the expansive room past the full size bathroom on the left that has a bathtub and a separate walk in shower and marble basin with Bulgari products (yes). Then the next room on the left was our walk-in wardrobe where we unpacked into the drawers and hung what needed hanging.

Note: men need to bring a jacket as most evenings they are required in all dining areas. On formal nights they also need to wear a tie. We didn’t know about this, but Briston got one for hubby to borrow. Nothing is a problem!

There was a bottle of bubbles chilling in a bucket with two glasses on the coffee table, past our king size bed and in front of the couch. Beyond that was our private balcony.

“What wine would you like in the mini bar?” asked Briston. I was still agog at the room and my husband answered that I like a sauvignon blanc so off he shot and returned with it in minutes.

He familiarised us with the technology in the room and showed us the daily Chronicle of activities and timings and where to find everything – including the eight restaurants.

At 2pm captain Alessandro parped the horn and off we seeped into the deep. The rain had stopped so I stood outside and watched Port Chalmers disappear and we ventured up past Aramoana and the Albatros colony (I didn’t see any) and around the cape, passing St Clair, Dunedin and into Foveaux Strait between the South Island and Stewart Island.

My huge cabin!

The final of the Australian Open was on so after dinner I went to the theatre in the stern on level 5 and watched with a wee bevy 😉

Did you get seasick at all?

The short answer is no. The longer answer is that sea sickness presents in a bunch of ways, the first being that you might feel a bit dizzy in the head. Tick. I found I was walking like a dressage pony down the hallway intending to go on one side yet trotting past cabin doors on the other.

The second symptom of sea sickness is that you can feel sleepy. Tick. Not that I minded, who doesn’t love a snooze?

Could you eat?

Absolutely! It would take a lot for me to be off my food. Besides, four restaurants are on Deck 4 mid-ship – the calmest place to be. On the first night I opted for what became my favourite: Atlantide and had a delicious steak with peppercorn sauce AND mushroom sauce – because I could!

My husband didn’t cope quite as well and preferred to spend the first night lying in bed. He wasn’t sick though, just the whole balance/head thing. I didn’t mind being the “Singleton party of one”.

Of course, being Silversea, he could have ordered room service at no charge. Instead he slept.

What about the storm?

I overheard two ladies a couple of days later talking about a storm coming up from the Southern Ocean and that sent me into a tail spin of paranoia.

Fortunately I got to meet with the captain for his tips (below) on how to manage rough seas, and he put my mind at ease. However I do have some advice for where you want your cabin to be located…

I loved this meal so much I had it twice in 4 nights at Atlantide!

Did I mention all alcohol is included on Silversea?!

Where are the best cabins on a ship?

On any ship the best place to ensure the smoothest sailing is mid-ship and on the lower decks. On Silver Muse there are 4 restaurants mid ship on the 4th deck, and it barely moves down here.

Our cabin at 905 (three doors from the bow) on the 9th deck was quite rocky. I’m sure at one point I levitated off the mattress in the night! However I must point out that at no time did I feel nauseated, just a whizzy head. Like I was drunk! “Pretend you’re in a hammock said a friend,” and so I did.

Here’s a tip: take a sleeping tablet and you’ll sleep like a baby. In fact, you might sleep like a baby anyway with the movement.

What was Fiordland like?

About 10am after sailing all night we finally reached Doubtful Sound and the water became still as we glided through the mist looking at the surrounding mountains and waterfalls that were dancing and gushing with all the rain. We had about an hour here, then slowly made our way out and along to Milford Sound, about two hours later.

Silversea had an expert on board on a speaker we could hear outside on the decks explaining the hanging glacier that feeds the waterfalls and the likelihood of seeing dolphins (yes, except I didn’t see them as I was off to get my phone charger to take more pics! #irony) Plus seals, although we didn’t see them.

It was misty and moody and really quite breathtaking. On a blue sky day it would be amazing, but honestly I loved it like this.

Hot on our heels was another ship so we had a time allocation into the sound then off we steamed into the big wide sea with Tasmania about 2000km beyond our bow.

Entering Doubtful Sound in the mist

Moody Milford Sound in the rain

The Silversea captain’s tips for crossing the Tasman Sea

I sat down with captain Zanello and asked him some questions about the Tasman crossing. Here’s what I learned…

1  The crossing will always have bigger swells between the South Island and Australia than the North Island and Australia as the big sea comes from the Southern Ocean. If you have a choice of itinerary, you may prefer to sail out of Auckland.

2  The dizziness, motion sickness, tiredness is something you get used to and with time it will pass. He has seen crew come and start working for the ship and be quite green for a few days but by the end of the week they are carrying trays of glasses on one hand and are used to it.

3  I asked him about the trick of putting an ear plug in one ear to stop seasickness. He hadn’t heard of that, but as several people had commented on my Facebook page saying it worked then it’s well worth trying. Also it makes a bit of sense as the balance/dizzy thing comes from the inner ear.

4  This might shock you: he believes patches and wrist bracelets are simply placebos. But as we discussed, because so much of motion sickness is controlled by the mind (I know this for a fact because I once closed my eyes on a horrendously bouncy hovercraft between Dover and Calais and pretended I was on the London tube. It worked and my sweaty mo dried up and I averted being sick) so if you get some relief from wearing them, then they work.

The pool is emptied for the Tasman crossing but still great for sunbathing and dining

Breakfast at Burnie, Tasmania

My voyage across the Tasman was at the invitation of Silversea Cruises.

Jump on their website for all their itineraries and ships around the world >>

If you’re going on a cruise, you will love my post for How to Pack for a Cruise here >>

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About Megan Singleton

Hi, I'm Megan Singleton and I'm the word slinger of this travel blog as well as on radio in NZ every Sunday. Former Travel Editor at Yahoo NZ and current freelance writer for a few newspapers and mags from time to time, I set off on this travel writing journey 20 years ago and I've pretty much always got a suitcase half packed (or half un-packed!) I'd love you to join me on Facebook or Twitter and sign up for my newsletters if you want loads of travel tips, advice and deals!

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