Shore Excursion – Port Arthur – Tasman Peninsula

If you’re cruising into Port Arthur and looking to make the most of your limited time ashore, this half-day tour by Tassie Tours offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, local foods, and cultural highlights. While it’s designed for cruise passengers, it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that appeals to those craving authentic sights and flavors without rushing through.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning scenery of the Tasman Peninsula and its towering sea cliffs. Second, the chance to sample Tasmanian chocolates, lavender, and fresh seafood—delicious tastings that truly showcase the island’s artisanal side. Third, the expert commentary and friendly guides who bring the history and landscape to life.

A possible consideration? The timing and pacing can be tight, especially when coordinating with cruise schedules or during peak season when food lines and crowds slow things down. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded glimpse of Tasmania’s coast, combining natural sights with tasty treats, in a manageable three-hour window.

• Scenic views of some of the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Tasty samples at local chocolate, lavender, and seafood stops.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned minibuses and port pickup.
• Informative guides who share engaging stories about Tasmania’s natural and historic sites.
• Flexible and well-structured itinerary designed for cruise visitors.
• Great value for the price, considering the variety of stops and tastings.

The Port Arthur – Tasman Peninsula Shore Excursion starts right at the historic Port Arthur site, but it’s the stops along the way that add flavor and visual drama to this experience. Each location is thoughtfully chosen to give you a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty and local pride.

Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry

Our first stop is at the award-winning Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry. Here, you’ll get to sample some handmade chocolates crafted from local ingredients. With only 15 minutes allocated, it’s a quick but sweet introduction to Tasmania’s artisanal food scene. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, with one noting the chocolates as “delicious” and a perfect start to the tour. Expect to see the chocolates being made and to pick up some treats to take home.

Doo-lishus Fish and Chips

Next, we stop at Doo-lishus, a popular local fish and chip van famed for serving the freshest fish in the south. This is a prime opportunity for seafood lovers to indulge in a seafood platter or oysters, or simply grab some classic fish and chips. The 30-minute break here allows for a proper taste and a breather. Reviewers have praised the freshness and quality, with one saying, “You won’t go hungry.” It’s cash only, so plan accordingly.

Exploring Tasman National Park

The natural star of the tour is the visit to Tasman National Park, where you’ll see some of the most dramatic sea cliffs in the world. The Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen are accessible via a short, easy walk. The rock formations here are breathtaking—layers of rugged cliffs, sea caves, and natural bridges carved by relentless waves. The 30-minute stop is enough to snap photos and appreciate these geological marvels. Several reviewers mention the “spectacular views” and “amazing rock formations,” making this a must-see.

Port Arthur Lavender

A calmer, fragrant stop follows at Port Arthur Lavender, where visitors stroll through a scenic lavender trail and browse locally handmade lavender products. This 20-minute visit is charming and offers a relaxing break amid the natural beauty. One reviewer found the lavender farm “mildly interesting,” but appreciated the opportunity to see a different side of Tasmania’s landscape.

Port Arthur Historic Site

Finally, you’ll visit the Port Arthur Historic Site, which is still the main attraction in the area. Although only 30 minutes are allocated, this provides a snapshot of the former penal colony’s gardens and historic buildings, alongside a visit to the gift shop and lavender produce sampling. The site’s significance is well recognized, and guides often share stories that bring the history alive—an element praised by many guests. It’s a good way to connect with Tasmania’s past even in a brief visit.

This tour offers food tastings, port pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, and lively commentary from guides like Mark and David, who’ve earned praise for their knowledge and engaging narration. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a comfortable experience and a more personal touch.

Not included are additional food or drinks beyond tastings, and lunch isn’t part of the package, giving you flexibility to choose your own meal at Doo-lishus or the port afterward. The overall cost of $67.12 per person is quite reasonable for the range of stops, tastings, and the convenience of port pickup.

The 3-hour duration strikes a practical balance—long enough to see a variety of sights and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed. Reviews note that the tour begins at the Port Arthur Historic Site and ends back there, making it easy to coordinate with cruise schedules. However, some guests have mentioned slight delays, like a 30-minute start delay, which can add pressure if you’re tight on time. The guides seem to handle these hiccups well, keeping the experience enjoyable.

Transportation is via air-conditioned mini-bus, which is comfortable and suitable for the small group size. Being able to be picked up directly from the port saves time and hassle, especially in a busy cruise port like Port Arthur.

Guests have consistently praised the knowledgeable guides—notably Mark and David—for their ability to bring Tasmania’s spots to life with lively stories and interesting facts about the convict history, the geology of the cliffs, and local flora. One reviewer shared that Mark made the history “come alive,” especially when telling stories of the convicts and the dogs that were tied to prevent escapes.

The scenic stops are frequently described as “spectacular,” with visitors appreciating the chance to see some of the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere. The food tastings also receive high marks; the chocolates are described as “delicious,” and the seafood as “fresh,” making the tour a great way to sample Tasmania’s local produce without extra fuss.

One reviewer highlighted the lavender farm as a peaceful, aromatic break, while others enjoyed the informative commentary that added depth to the natural and historical sites. The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights, which many appreciate.

While overall positive, some guests have noted the timing can be tight, especially if early delays occur or if lines at food stops get long. A few reviewers mentioned feeling rushed during the shorter visits, which is something to consider if you prefer more time at each stop.

Plus, food and drinks outside of tastings are not included, so you may want to budget extra if you plan to eat more substantial meals. The tour’s 3-hour limit means you won’t have extensive sightseeing time at Port Arthur itself, but it’s enough for a meaningful overview.

This Port Arthur shore excursion is ideal for cruise passengers who want a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty, local flavors, and history without spending a full day ashore. It’s suitable for all ages, especially those who enjoy scenic walks, food tastings, and engaging storytelling.

If you’re after an authentic, well-paced tour that covers key spots with minimal hassle, this experience should meet your expectations. The small group size and expert guides make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxed but informative snapshot of Tasmania’s eastern coast.

This tour offers a balanced combination of stunning natural scenery, delicious local foods, and insightful commentary, all within a manageable timeframe. The small group size and professional guides ensure a personal touch, making it easier to connect with the sites and stories. The variety of stops—from chocolate to lavender, cliffs to historic ruins—caters to different interests, making it a versatile option for cruise guests.

While the pace can be brisk during peak times, the overall value remains high—offering memorable moments without overstaying your welcome ashore. If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience that highlights Tasmania’s scenic and culinary appeal, this tour deserves a spot on your cruise itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for all ages, with short walks and manageable stops. It’s family-friendly and caters to diverse interests.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops, tastings, and transfer time.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have tastings at chocolate, lavender, and seafood stops, and are free to purchase additional food separately.

Is pickup from the port provided?
Yes, the tour includes port pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are food and drink costs additional?
Yes, outside of the included tastings, any other food or drinks are at your own expense.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor walking; weather conditions can vary, so layers are recommended.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Booking about 70 days in advance is common, but it’s advisable to secure your spot early, especially during peak cruise seasons.

This Port Arthur – Tasman Peninsula tour offers a delightful snapshot of Tasmania’s natural beauty and local flavors, all wrapped up in a friendly, well-paced package. It’s perfect for cruise travelers eager to experience highlights without the hassle of extensive planning.