Port Arthur Shuttle and Tasman Sights Tour

Planning a day trip from Hobart often involves a lot of logistics—driving, organizing stops, and trying to cram in everything you want to see. That’s where the Port Arthur Shuttle and Tasman Sights Tour shines. This well-rated, all-in-one day adventure takes the hassle out of traveling, giving you a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor—all for just around $34 per person.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We love the convenient pickup points that make getting on board simple, the expert local guides who share insightful stories and tips, and the chance to see multiple highlights without the stress of planning. The only caveat? With a full day packed with stops, it’s best suited to those comfortable with a fair amount of walking, especially at Port Arthur itself.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to make the most of their day outside Hobart without the hassle of driving. It offers a solid value, especially with the included harbor cruise (from July 2025, entry to Port Arthur will be included in the ticket). If you’re after an easy, engaging way to explore some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights, this could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned buses with multiple pickup points.
• Flexible Schedule: Two morning departures and options for extra sites.
• Rich Stops: Including scenic lookouts, chocolate and lavender farms, and the historic site.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, with good humor and local insights.
• Additional Experiences: Optional visit to the Remarkable Cave with breathtaking views.
• Great Value: All for under $35, including a harbor cruise from July 2025.

What to Expect from the Tour

The journey begins with pickups from eight locations around downtown Hobart, starting around 9:30am. From there, it’s a day filled with picturesque stops, tasty treats, and fascinating history—everything designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s unique charm.

Scenic Stops and Mini-Excursions on the Way

You’ll quickly notice that this isn’t just a transport service; it’s part sightseeing adventure. After departing Hobart, the bus makes its way toward Port Arthur, with a handful of memorable stops along the way. Expect to pause at the Eaglehawk Necks Pirates Bay lookout, where the dramatic coastlines and rugged cliffs make for picture-perfect moments. Reviewers particularly appreciate this stop, noting it’s a chance to soak in some of the island’s best scenery.

Next up, a visit to the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry offers a sweet break. Visitors often mention how lovely the factory is, with some raving about their chocolate ice cream and high-quality confections. It’s not just a sugar fix; it’s a taste of local craftsmanship and a great way to stretch your legs before more exploring.

The Port Arthur Lavender Farm follows—a peaceful spot where you can enjoy stunning lavender fields and browse handmade lavender products. One reviewer even claimed it was better than the famous Bridestowe Lavender Farm, praising the scenic design and delightful atmosphere.

Exploring Port Arthur Historic Site

The main event of the day is the Port Arthur Historic Site, Australia’s most preserved penal settlement. You’ll have about four hours here if you opt for the full experience, giving plenty of time to wander the grounds, listen to the self-guided audio tour, and reflect on the site’s dark, compelling past. One reviewer mentioned the site’s size is vast, so coming prepared with a plan helps make the most of your visit.

Entry fee is not included in the ticket for bookings before July 2025, but from that date, it’s included. The site offers plenty of photo-worthy spots, and its historic buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens and waterways. Many visitors appreciated the detailed audio guide, which adds depth to the experience, making history come alive.

Optional Visit to Remarkable Cave

For those craving a little extra adventure, about three hours into the Port Arthur visit, you can hop back on the bus to visit the Remarkable Cave. This quick 8-minute drive takes you to Maingon Bay, where the views of Penguin Rocks and the rugged coast are spectacular. The highlight is descending the 115 steps to view the cave from a platform, surrounded by ancient sandstone cliffs—a photo opportunity not to be missed. Reviewers found this detour worthwhile, with comments about the stunning vistas and the experience of walking down to the cave.

Return to Hobart

After exploring the cave and enjoying the views, the bus loops back to Port Arthur to collect the remaining passengers and heads home. Expect to arrive back in Hobart around 5:30pm, making it a full, satisfying day without feeling rushed.

The Logistics and Value

This tour’s price point of $33.90 per person (plus entry fees if applicable) offers excellent value considering the number of stops, the harbor cruise, and the guided commentary. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially on warmer days, and the pickup from eight locations makes it easy for most travelers to join.

The small group size (maximum 24 travelers) fosters a more intimate, friendly atmosphere, giving you more chances to ask questions and get personalized tips. Reviewers frequently praise the guides—one called Gino “great,” mentioning his blend of humor, knowledge, and local passion, which made the day even more enjoyable.

Transportation timing is strict, so punctuality is key. The tour is designed to maximize your time at each stop, but bear in mind there’s a lot of walking involved at Port Arthur, which might be a consideration for those with mobility challenges.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

What truly sets this tour apart are the small, meaningful touches. The stops at the chocolate factory and lavender farm aren’t just filler—they add a local flavor and a chance to connect with Tasmania’s artisans. Several reviews mentioned the delicious food, friendly guides, and scenic views as memorable highlights.

The harbor cruise included from July 2025 adds a relaxing water-based perspective of Port Arthur’s waterways, giving a different angle on the historic site. Reviewers also mentioned that the guides provided great recommendations for local eateries and spots to explore further, adding value beyond the scheduled stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip that combines history, scenic stops, and local delicacies. It’s well-suited for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers seeking comfort and convenience. The small group size and expert guides mean you’ll get personalized insights, making it ideal for those who enjoy engaging storytelling.

While the walking around the Port Arthur site can be extensive, the availability of a transfer service helps those with limited mobility. It’s also a good fit for families, as long as children are accompanied by adults and are comfortable with a full day out.

Final Thoughts

The Port Arthur Shuttle and Tasman Sights Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, fascinating history, and local Tasmanian flavor—all at an accessible price point. Its well-organized itinerary and friendly guides make it a reliable choice for travelers eager to explore Tasmania beyond Hobart without the stress of planning every detail.

With stops at charming farms, dramatic coastlines, and Australia’s most famous penal settlement, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Tasmania. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature admirer, or simply looking for a laid-back day out, this tour is a smart, enjoyable way to see the best of the region.

FAQs

Does the tour include entry to the Port Arthur Historic Site?
For bookings before July 2025, the entry fee is not included but can be paid separately. From July 2025 onward, entry will be included in the tour price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire day lasts around 8 hours, with most of that time spent traveling, exploring stops, and at the Port Arthur site.

Are pickup points convenient?
Yes, there are eight pickup locations around downtown Hobart, starting at 9:30am, making it easy to join the tour.

Can I visit the Remarkable Cave?
Yes, if you choose the optional stop, you’ll be driven to Maingon Bay and have the chance to walk down to the cave from the viewing platform.

Is the tour suitable for kids or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware that walking around Port Arthur involves some exertion. The tour does offer transfers for less mobile visitors, but not all areas are accessible.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic lookouts, engaging guides like Gino, delicious food stops, and the historic site itself creates a well-rounded experience that offers more than just transportation.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the stops at the chocolate factory and lavender farm give you great opportunities to sample local treats.

This tour strikes a solid balance between value, comfort, and authentic Tasmanian experiences. Perfect for those wanting to explore without the fuss—just sit back, enjoy the views, and absorb Tasmania’s captivating stories.