Hobart: 2 Day Bruny Island Escape & Port Arthur with Devils

Taking a two-day trip from Hobart that combines Port Arthur, Bruny Island, and encounters with Tasmanian Devils sounds like a whirlwind, but it’s actually a thoughtfully designed experience. This tour from Tours Tasmania offers a solid blend of history, wildlife, stunning scenery, and local tastes. With a high provider rating of 4.8, it’s clear many travelers find value in this well-organized adventure.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to explore Port Arthur’s haunting penal colony ruins and learn about Australia’s convict past is compelling. Second, the opportunity to see and even feed the unique Tasmanian Devils adds a rare wildlife element. Third, the hiking along coastal trails on Bruny Island and sampling local foods make it a well-rounded, immersive experience.

One potential hitch? The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for those with a decent fitness level. Also, the tour is limited to small groups of 15, offering a more intimate experience but requiring early booking. Overall, if you’re eager for an authentic taste of Tasmania packed into just two days, this tour stands out.

Key Points

• Authentic encounters with Tasmanian wildlife, including the highly endangered Devils.
• Rich historical insights at Port Arthur, combined with a scenic Harbour Cruise.
• Stunning coastal hikes on Bruny Island, with panoramic views and unique rock formations.
• Delicious local food stops including chocolates, honey, cheeses, and oysters.
• Small group size for a more personalized experience.
• Early start and long day—be prepared for a full itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Tasmania Adventure

Day 1: Port Arthur & Tasmanian Devils

The journey kicks off early from Hobart, with the tour meeting at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre. The first stop at Pirates Bay Lookout treats you to expansive views of the rugged coastline—a perfect warm-up before heading further south. From there, a short drive along the coast takes you to Eaglehawk Neck, where the striking Waterfall Bay Clifftop walk offers dramatic vistas of the crashing Tasman Sea.

This coastal walk is a highlight, especially if you enjoy a brisk trek along cliffs, with views that change with every turn. The guide shares local stories and history, making this more than just a walk—it’s a chance to connect with the landscape.

Next, you’ll visit the Unzoo, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to Tasmanian animals. Here, the Tasmanian Devils are the main attraction. Watching the feeding times is a highlight, with snarling and bone-crushing displays that are both fascinating and a bit shocking. Reviewers mention that guides do a great job explaining the importance of the Devil’s conservation status, adding an educational element. Visitors also get the chance to hand-feed wallabies, making this a memorable wildlife encounter.

The afternoon takes you to Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage location. The guided tour includes a Harbour Cruise to the Isle of the Dead, where you learn about the penal colony’s grim past and see the historic ruins. With around 2.5 hours here, you’ll walk among the main penitentiary, solitary confinement cells, and other remnants of this once inescapable prison. One reviewer noted, “The site talks brought history to life,” highlighting the engaging nature of the guided experience.

On your way back to Hobart, a stop at Richmond Historic Village offers a taste of early colonial architecture and a chance to relax in cafes. After a full day, most guests arrive back around 6 pm, ready for their own accommodation plans.

Day 2: Bruny Island – Hikes & Gourmet Tastes

Following an early start, you’ll cross the D’Entrecasteaux Channel by ferry, a scenic, 20-minute crossing that offers views of the island from the water. Unlike large tour groups, this experience emphasizes walking and exploring—whether along the Cape Queen Elizabeth trail or The Neck.

The Cape Queen Elizabeth trail is a 6.5 km coastal hike that takes around two hours and offers breathtaking views from Mars Bluff overlooking Miles Beach and the iconic Bruny Island Arch. Reviewers love this section, noting the heathland terrain and spectacular scenery. It’s a relaxed but invigorating walk, ideal for nature lovers who appreciate a good coastal panorama.

Next, a climb of 279 stairs at The Neck leads to Trugannini Lookout, providing 360-degree views of the island and the sand dunes below, where penguins sometimes burrow. This is a great spot to pause and soak in the scenery.

Lunch is flexible—either a BYO picnic at Adventure Bay or a visit to a local seafood restaurant. Either way, the bay’s calm waters and views make for a perfect break after the morning’s hike.

The afternoon is dedicated to tasting the island’s famous produce. Stops include:
– Bruny Island Chocolate Company: Known for handmade fudges and chocolates.
– Bruny Island Honey: Offering natural honey and honey ice cream.
– Bruny Island Cheese Co.: Artisan cheeses and some excellent cellar tastings.
– Get Shucked Oyster Farm: Enjoy fresh oysters from Great Bay’s clear waters.

These stops are carefully curated, emphasizing local craftsmanship and quality. Guest reviews repeatedly mention how delicious and fresh the oysters and cheeses are—some say it’s worth the trip just for these tasting stops. The tour wraps up around 5 pm, with the ferry crossing and scenic drive back to Hobart.

Transportation & Group Size: What to Expect

Most of the day involves comfortable coach travel, with early pick-up times ensuring you maximize your time. The small group size (limited to 15 participants) is a definite advantage, allowing for more personalized interactions and less crowding at the stops.

The tour is well-paced, with enough time at each location to explore without feeling rushed. As one reviewer pointed out, the guides are “knowledgeable and engaging,” adding context and stories that make the sites come alive.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, this tour offers a comprehensive mix of history, wildlife, scenery, and food, which many find justifies the price. The inclusion of guided tours, wildlife encounters, hikes, and tastings adds to the overall value, especially compared to separate entrance fees and transportation costs.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a blend of history, nature, and food. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking and hiking since many of the highlights involve outdoor activity. Small groups and knowledgeable guides make it a good choice for travelers seeking a more intimate and enriching experience.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the chance to see and feed the Tasmanian Devils is rare. History buffs will enjoy the detailed stories at Port Arthur, and food lovers will relish sampling local delights. It’s perfect for those who want a multi-faceted snapshot of Tasmania in just two days.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Hobart offers a thoughtfully curated mix of Tasmania’s highlights. From exploring the haunted ruins of Port Arthur and getting up close with Tasmanian Devils to hiking the rugged coastlines of Bruny Island and indulging in local foods, it provides a well-rounded adventure.

The experience shines most when it combines authentic wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and delicious tastings. The guides’ knowledge and the small-group format elevate the trip, making it engaging and personalized.

While it’s a packed schedule, the tour’s varied stops and activities ensure you leave with a richer understanding and appreciation of Tasmania’s natural beauty, history, and local culture. It’s especially suited for energetic travelers seeking a comprehensive, authentic taste of the island in a short timeframe.

FAQ

Is accommodation in Hobart included in this tour?
No, accommodation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own stay in Hobart either before or after the tour.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring hiking shoes, water, comfortable clothing, outdoor clothing, and a daypack to carry essentials during hikes and activities.

How long are the hikes on Bruny Island?
The Cape Queen Elizabeth trail is about 6.5 km and takes around two hours, while the climb at The Neck involves 279 stairs with excellent views.

What is the group size?
The tour limits participation to 15 people, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it involves walking and hiking, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What is included in the tour cost?
The price covers transportation, guiding, wildlife encounters, and tastings at the local food stops. Specific price details vary, but the value is in the comprehensive experience.

When does the tour start and finish?
The tour begins early in the morning, around 6:50-7:25 AM, depending on the day, and returns to Hobart around 5-6 PM.

This 2-day adventure perfectly balances adventure, history, wildlife, and food, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Tasmania authentically and comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here: