Port Arthur, Richmond and Tassie Devils Active Tour from Hobart

If you’re looking to pack a full taste of Tasmania into one day, the Port Arthur, Richmond, and Tassie Devils Active Tour offers a whirlwind of scenic spots, history, and wildlife encounters. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an eventful, well-organized experience that balances adventure with cultural insight.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the expert guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping you connect with the history and wild landscapes. Then, there’s the variety of activities, from coastal walks and wildlife spotting to exploring historic sites. Lastly, the value for money seems solid, considering all the inclusions like entrance fees, a harbor cruise, and special animal encounters.

Of course, it’s a long day, and some reviewers felt a few stops could have had a bit more time, especially Richmond. But if you’re eager to see multiple facets of Tasmania without the hassle of planning each stop, this tour is tailored to those with moderate fitness levels who love to be on the move. It’s especially perfect for travelers short on time but craving a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s highlights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Entrance fees, a harbor cruise, and Tasmanian Devil feeding are covered.
• Active & Fast-Paced: Expect a busy day with walking, hikes, and wildlife encounters.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience with stories and insights.
• Diverse Highlights: From coastal walks and wildlife to historic sites and charming towns.
• Value for Money: A full day packed with activities at a reasonable price.
• Primarily for Moderate Fitness Travelers: Expect some walking and outdoor activity; not suited for those with mobility issues.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Starting Early at Hobart: Setting the Pace

The tour kicks off at 7:30 am from a central Hobart location, with a small group size (up to 20 travelers) that encourages a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The early start means you beat some of the crowds and maximize your day. The transport is a comfortable vehicle, but note there are no charging ports or WiFi—bring a power bank and your curiosity.

Pirates Bay & Eaglehawk Neck: Dramatic Coastlines & Stories

The first stop is Pirates Bay, a stretch of rugged shoreline famous for its wild beauty and historical significance. Passing through Eaglehawk Neck, guides share tales of its notorious past—think of it as Tasmania’s own Alcatraz with a side of stunning scenery. The scenery here is indeed striking, with cliffs meeting crashing waves, and it sets an adventurous tone for the day.

Tasman National Park & Waterfall Bay: Coastal Walks & Breathtaking Views

Next, the tour moves into Tasman National Park, where you’ll enjoy the Waterfall Bay Cliff Top Walk—a 45-minute, undulating hike along easy trails that reveal panoramic views of the coast. Reviewers mention the walk as spectacular, with some even spotting a wallaby along the trail. The views of Tasman’s Arch and Devil’s Kitchen are often highlighted as memorable highlights, offering perfect photo opportunities.

Tasmanian Devils & Unzoo Encounter

A major draw is the visit to the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, where the experience is described as interactive and close-up. Watching Tasmanian Devils feed, with their snarling and bone-crushing antics, is a spectacle many find unforgettable. The guide’s explanation enhances the moment, sharing facts about these unique creatures.

Some reviewers mentioned that they could have spent longer here, as the animal encounters are a highlight. You also get the chance to hand-feed kangaroos in a cage-free environment, making this stop a well-loved animal experience. The wild bird feeding is another charming activity, with birds landing right on your hand—a real treat for nature lovers.

Port Arthur Historic Site: Deep Dive into Tasmania’s Past

The afternoon is dedicated to Port Arthur, a UNESCO-listed site filled with history. You’ll get around 3 hours to explore, which many reviewers say is enough for a good overview, but not for a full, in-depth visit. The site features preserved buildings, ruins, and informative displays. Some opt for guided tours to enrich their understanding, though these fill up quickly and need to be booked in advance.

The harbor cruise included in the ticket offers a relaxing perspective of the historic site from the water, adding a scenic twist to the exploration. Reviewers mention the site as both moving and impressive, especially if you’re interested in Australia’s convict past.

Richmond: Charming End-Point

On the way back, the tour stops in Richmond, a picturesque town famous for its historic bridge and quaint streets. The 45-minute stop allows time for a quick coffee, ice cream, or a stroll through shops. Some comments note that arriving late reduces the time to explore, so punctuality helps maximize this visit.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling in a small, friendly group (max 20) makes the day more personalized and manageable. The vehicle is comfortable, though the absence of charging ports means carrying a power bank is advised. Cell reception is generally good, enabling some connectivity during the trip.

Timing & Duration

Starting at 7:30 am and returning to Hobart late afternoon, the tour totals roughly 10.5 hours. The schedule is packed, so be prepared for a full-on day that involves a fair bit of walking. The walks at Waterfall Bay and around Port Arthur are manageable, described as easy or moderate.

Cost & Value

At $132.21 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions—entrance to multiple major sites, a harbor cruise, and animal encounters. The reviews suggest you’re paying for a curated experience with knowledgeable guides, which significantly enhances the value.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need to bring your own snacks or lunch, although there are food options at Port Arthur’s café. No luggage or airport drop-offs are included, so travel light and plan accordingly.

Authentic Traveler Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently mention the quality of guides, with names like Ian, David, and Lucas receiving praise for their knowledge and approachable manner. Their stories help make the history tangible and the wildlife experiences more engaging.

Many describe the coastal walks and scenic stops as breathtaking, emphasizing the spectacular views of cliffs, rock formations, and ocean. The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is a standout, with visitors capturing close-up photos and videos of the feeding, noting the animals’ ferocious yet adorable nature.

Several reviews mention the long but rewarding day, suggesting that the effort is worth the diverse experiences packed into one trip. The Richmond stop is appreciated as a charming, leisurely finish, although some wished for more time there.

Final thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a mix of hiking, wildlife, and history, all in one day. The guided approach ensures you get insightful stories without the stress of planning, while the diverse stops keep things lively. If you’re after a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s coast, wildlife, and heritage, this tour delivers.

However, keep in mind the long hours and physical activity involved. If mobility is a concern, you might want to consider how much walking is involved at each stop. The tour’s small-group format is ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience, while the inclusions make it a good value for money.

In all, this tour suits adventurous, curious travelers eager to see Tasmania’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or learning opportunities. It’s a busy, rewarding day that leaves you with a well-rounded impression of this unique island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as there are walking and hiking portions, including the Waterfall Bay walk. The routes are categorized as easy to moderate, but some mobility issues might find parts challenging.

Are entrance fees and activities included?
Yes, all major entrance fees, including Port Arthur and the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, are covered in the price. The harbor cruise and animal feedings are also included.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your day pack with essentials, including water, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a light jacket (it can be breezy at Port Arthur). A power bank is recommended since there are no charging ports on the bus.

How long is the stop at Richmond?
The stop is about 45 minutes, enough for a quick stroll, coffee, or ice cream. Arriving late might limit your time, so punctuality helps maximize this part.

Can I book additional guided tours at Port Arthur?
Yes, guided tours inside the site are available but need to be booked separately and in advance, as they fill quickly. The included visit focuses on self-guided exploration.

Is lunch provided?
No, meals are not included. The Port Arthur café offers a variety of options for lunch and snacks, but travelers should plan ahead or bring their own food if preferred.

This Port Arthur, Richmond, and Tassie Devils Active Tour offers a lively, well-rounded day that combines Tasmania’s wild coastal beauty, historic sites, and iconic wildlife. Perfect for those who want to maximize their day and experience the island’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.