Hobart

Hobart is Tasmania’s capital city and the island’s liveliest port.   Historic warehouses line the waterfront, brimming with cafes, art galleries, restaurants and souvenir stores.  Situated at latitude 40^o south, Hobart is Australia's second oldest city. The city is rich in character and history, nestling alongside one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world and at the base of majestic Mount Wellington which rises 1,270 metres above sea level. The working harbour is home to Antarctic supply vessels and fishing boats from the Southern Ocean.

Hobart is regarded by cruise ship passengers as one of the region's most friendly, exciting and diverse destinations. Airport access provides pre and post cruising options and Hobart is a gateway to a diverse range of day and extended trips.

To read more on Hobart, click here >

Select a downloadable port information sheet for Hobart:
Hobart Macquarie Wharf (PDF)
Hobart Princes Wharf (PDF)

Burnie

Burnie's slogan 'City of Contrasts' describes the nature of this rich and diverse regional city. While the city is dominated by the busy waterfront - the fifth largest container port in Australia - it offers a contrasting hinterland to tempt any visitor.

Burnie occupies a key position on Tasmania’s touring route. It is the gateway to the rich mining and scenic areas of the west coast and the historic and scenic far north-west.

To read more on Burnie, see:
www.discovertasmania.com
Burnie City Council

Select a downloadable port information sheet for Burnie: Burnie Fact Sheet (PDF)

Devonport

The Port City of Devonport is one of the world’s newest regional cruise destinations and is acknowledged as the gateway to Cradle Mountain National Park and the World Heritage areas in the north of the State. The coastal countryside is reminiscent of the green rolling hills of old England dotted with little villages and spring blossoms. And where this countryside meets the mountains, the wilderness begins. The entrance to Cradle Mountain National Park is just an hour and half’s drive from the wharf and the city centre.

The city of Devonport itself, straddling the River Mersey, is a busy port and the retail and commercial centre of the region. As well as shops and boutiques selling local wares, there are galleries and craft centres featuring the work of local artists. For each cruise ship visit, the people of the city extend a festive welcome with entertainment and activities.

To read more on Devonport, see:
www.discovertasmania.com
Tasmania’s North West

Select a downloadable port information sheet for Devonport: Devonport Fact Sheet (PDF)

Beauty Point (Launceston)

Launceston is Australia’s third oldest city having been founded in 1805. It is a treasure trove of history and delights complete with beautifully maintained and restored historic buildings that give it an old world charm and make it unique in Australia.  The city is at the junction of two rivers and stands at the source of the beautiful 64-kilometre Tamar River Valley region that is becoming increasingly famous for its very fine wines.

Launceston has a great reputation for its first-class restaurants, some specialising in Tasmania’s renowned seafood, game and produce. The experience of eating out can also be extended to the great outdoors with picturesque picnic spots within easy walking or driving distance from the city.

Whatever your interest, river cruises, scenic flights, white water rafting, rock climbing and abseiling, bush walks, wilderness tours, colonial home and garden tours, all can be arranged very easily from Launceston.

To read more on Launceston, click here >

Select a downloadable port information sheet for Beauty Point (Launceston): Launceston Fact Sheet (PDF)

Port Arthur

Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula is Australia’s most intact and evocative convict site and is one of Australia's great tourism destinations. Every building, every feature of the Port Arthur Historic Site has a story to tell.  Created with convict labour, the impressive architecture, delightful gardens and chilling prison facilities survive today for you to explore.

To read more on Port Arthur, see: www.portarthur.org.au

Freycinet Peninsula

The spectacular Freycinet Peninsula has been lauded by travel experts the world over. Wineglass Bay on the east side and Coles Bay on the west side both make excellent stops.  Freycinet National Park consists of knuckles of granite mountains all but surrounded by azure bays and white sand beaches. The dramatic peaks of the Hazards welcome you as you enter the park.

Coles Bay
Smaller ships only and a National Parks access pass must be obtained from Parks and Wildlife Services. Anchorage at either Parsons Cove or at the Freycinet Lodge (pilotage is needed).

Wineglass Bay
National Parks access pass must be obtained from Parks and Wildlife Services. Ships can drop off passengers in at Wineglass Bay and allow them to take the Hazards walk, picking them up on the other side of the peninsula at Coles Bay.

To read more on the Freycinet National Park, click here >

Maria Island

This east coast island stop is suitable for smaller, expedition ships only. The historic settlement of Darlington, on the island’s west coast, makes an ideal stop. Maria Island is a national park, and is known for its prolific wildlife, fascinating colonial history, including a convict settlement pre-dating Port Arthur, and swathes of pristine beaches. Parks and Wildlife Services (PWS) permits are essential.

To read more on Maria Island, click here >

Triabunna

Triabunna makes a great alternative stop to Maria Island for larger vessels. This east coast town provides a ferry service to nearby Maria Island.  Triabunna (the word is reputedly an Aboriginal term for a native hen) is a pleasant working port which started life as a garrison town for the penal colony on Maria Island. Today it is a town driven largely by its fishing industry (it is known for its scallops and abalone) and the huge woodchip mill at Point Home (it can be clearly seen from the ferry across to Maria Island).

Port Huon
For destination information visit www.huontrail.org.au and for wharf information at Port Huon, click here >

Flinders Island

Flinders Island is Tasmania’s largest north-east island. There is no wharf so access is via anchorage and small boat only. Flinders Island Adventure is an expedition company that can accommodate small groups (up to eight people). For more information see Flinders Island Adventures.

To read more on Flinders Island, click here >

King Island

King Island is an ideal stop for both large and expedition ships off this fertile, north-west island. Anchorage is at Currie on the island’s west coast.   King Island lies in the path of the Roaring Forties; the ever-present westerly’s that circle the world’s southern latitudes. It’s an island of long, empty beaches and clean, fresh air, of offshore reefs, rocky coasts, lighthouses and shipwrecks.

The King Island Council must be contacted, see www.kingisland.tas.gov.au
To read more on King Island, click here >

Stanley

This charming north-west town offers excellent access to the attractions of the north-west coast, including Marrawah, the Tarkine rainforest and Rocky Cape National Park. Stanley is known for its rows of historic cottages and the iconic 'Nut' – a volcanic plug rising 150 metres (492 feet). You can take tours to spot seals, penguins, sea birds and other wildlife close to Stanley and local operators offer a range of observation tours.

To read more on Stanley, click here >
For information on pilotage services required at Stanley visit Marine & Safety Tasmania.

Bruny Island

Long, sandy beaches, abundant marine and wildlife, great walks and historic sites make Bruny Island an excellent stop. Just 40 kilometres south of Hobart, the island is perfect for circumnavigation and historic Adventure Bay is a suitable anchorage for smaller ships.

To read more on Bruny Island, click here >

Further information also available at Marine & Safety Tasmania.

Macquarie Island

This sub-Antarctic island is a regular for cruise ships, but all vessels must receive a Parks and Wildlife permit as a part of a quota system. The World Heritage site boasts an abundance of wildlife, including an array of sea birds, penguins and seals.

To read more on Macquarie Island, click here >