Circumnavigation of Tasmania

Arrive at your advised check-in location for boarding at 4:00pm, with time to settle into your stateroom before our 5:00pm departure. Take the time to become acquainted with all the facilities onboard before meeting your fellow travellers, the Captain and crew for the Captain’s Welcome Drinks. 

The historic ruins and rugged cliffs of Maria Island National Park are home to diverse wildlife that includes Forester Kangaroos, Bennetts Wallabies, and wombats. Walk to historic Darlington Settlement, explore the ancient seabeds of the Fossil Cliffs, and marvel at the sandstone formations of the Painted Cliffs. 

At Freycinet Peninsula, see the pink granite formations of the Hazard Mountains, and the sweeping bays fringed by Eucalypts. Join a guided hike to the Wineglass Bay beach – one of the best beaches in the world. Witness fur seals lounging on the rocks at the Ile des Phoques.

Visit wild and rugged Flinders Island, and marvel at the pink and gray granite mountain ranges of Strzelecki National Park. Land at beautiful Trousers Point beach, with the possibility of enjoying two of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks at Trousers Point and Castle Rock. Visit seaside townships, discover the sad history of Wybalenna Settlement, and see relics of Flinders maritime past at the Furneaux Museum. 
 

Weather permitting we visit the Kent Group of islands, Tasmania’s northernmost National Park, and a marine protected area. These islands are the remains of a land bridge that once connected Tasmania with mainland Australia over 10,000 years ago. The waters of Kent Island are crystal clear, with a high diversity of fish species. On Deal Island we find the highest lighthouse in Australia, standing 305 meters above sea level, which is manned by volunteer caretakers, enjoy several walk options and swim and kayak off the beach. 

Cruise the scenic Tamar River to Launceston – which has recently been designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Formed by the confluence of the North and South Esk rivers at Launceston, the river’s banks are peppered with scenic reserves, historic properties and notable vineyards. Here spend time in the riverfront city of ‘Launnie’ to view its architectural treasures. 

On our visit to Stanley, walk to see ‘The Nut’ – an old volcanic plug that measures approximately 4.6km with a steep section that flattens to form the top. You can opt for a chairlift to skip the incline. Either way, be rewarded with coastal views before heading to explore Highfield Historic Site. 

Weather permitting we visit King Island, whose tumultuous waters are the final resting place of over 140 shipwrecks. Learn about the island’s rich and often terrible maritime history, as well as it’s famous beef and cheese industries.  

Home to striking mountain ranges, ancient pines and untamed rivers, the wild west coast is the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness and a true frontier. Take in the dramatic scenery during a day of cruising. 

A marine reserve and part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, spectacular Port Davey is only accessible by sea, small aircraft, or a multi-day hike.  Enjoy the unforgettable experience of kayaking in Bramble Cove, and explore Melaleuca, along with hiking and bird-watching. 
We will spend two days here, and upon departure, we will cruise past the remote south coast island of Maatsuyker, home to Australia’s most southerly lighthouse. 
*Access to Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour is subject to annual permits being granted by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife. 

Experience the rugged beauty of Fluted Cape as you walk along the sheer coastal cliffs. Learn about the rich maritime history of Adventure Bay, and explore the history of old whaling stations on the way to Grass Point. 

The Tasman Peninsula is known for its fascinating geological formations, including the soaring 300 metre high dolerite sea cliffs of Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy – the tallest in the southern hemisphere. Watch fur seals hauling out on the rocks, as well as playful dolphins feeding and magnificent albatross soaring amongst the updrafts created by the sea cliffs. At Fortescue Bay we will hike a section of the Three Capes track towards Cape Hauy, and later the ship will circumnavigate the impressive Tasman Island. This evening experience a signature event at Bangor Vineyard, featuring the region’s finest local produce and hosted by 7th generation farmer Matt Dunbabin. 

One of Australia’s most significant historic places, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur ruins stand sentinel on the Tasman Peninsula south of the narrow isthmus of Eaglehawk Neck. For more than 40 years the Port Arthur penal colony housed British and Australian convicts sentenced to hard labour before its heavy iron doors clanked shut for the last time in 1877.