Top Tasmania On the Water

The Gordon River winds through wilderness with no road access, so the only way to reach its landmarks is from the water. Cruise out from Strahan on a morning departure instead, passing Hells Gates at the entrance to Macquarie Harbour and continuing into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Stop at Sarah Island to walk the ruins of its former penal colony and enjoy a chef-prepared lunch served on board.

The Tasman Peninsula boasts some of Tasmania’s most remote and beautiful coastal scenery, but to see the best of it you have to take to the waves. On this daily tour, cruise between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck with your guide, and admire unrivalled views over the rugged shoreline. Gaze up at vertical sea cliffs, discover deep sea caves, and spot native albatrosses, eagles, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat.

From land, the Tasman Peninsula’s sea caves and arches are mostly out of sight. A cruise from Port Arthur follows the coast past Point Puer, the Isle of the Dead, Safety Cove, and Crescent Bay, with Mount Brown in the background. At Cape Raoul, see the dolerite columns rising from the sea and look for Australian fur seals.

Set out from Coles Bay on a half-day cruise across the clear waters of Wineglass Bay, an easy way to experience the highlights of Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula from the water in just a few hours—including spots hard to reach by land. Sail past white-sand beaches and dramatic granite cliffs while taking in the area’s coastal scenery, with the option to upgrade and enjoy a freshly prepared onboard lunch. As you cruise, keep watch for local wildlife such as dolphins, sea eagles, and migrating humpback whales (depending on the season).

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders and eventful history of Tasmania on a 6-hour boat tour from Strahan. The first-class catamaran ensures comfort from beginning to end. Cruise through Hell’s Gates, then enjoy a guided visit on Sarah Island, which once housed the island’s most notorious penal settlement. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board the ship, then continue your adventure with a boardwalk tour through the UNESCO listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Enjoy Hobart from the water on Derwent River cruise. Choose your preferred time of day for your cruise, including lunch and dinner options, and then glide through the city to admire the harbor and waterfront attractions such as the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, the Tasman Bridge, Government House, Montagu Bay, and Rose Bay.

There’s no better way to appreciate the rugged wilderness, pristine beaches, and spectacular wildlife of Bruny Island than from the sea. On this 3-hour cruise by custom-built eco-cruiser, explore deep sea caves and towering cliffs as you search for wildlife from dolphins and seals to sea eagles and great white sharks. Covered open-air seating creates a real connection to your environment on the adrenaline-pumping ride.

Admire Bruny Island by both land and sea on this full-day trip from Hobart that includes a 3-hour eco-cruise around the island. See remote beaches, rugged coastlines, and native wildlife such as dolphins and fur seals as you cruise past steep cliffs and deep sea caves. Ferry transport to the island is included, plus hot drinks and lunch.

We are the only white water Jet Boating experience in Australia. A must do for any visit to Southern Tasmania, our jet boat ride will take you on a thrilling 35 minute trip up the Huon River. The Huon River has formed the picturesque Huon Valley, a beautiful sheltered area surrounded by farmland, orchards, wineries, native forests and ponderous mountains. You are invited to see magnificent reflections and rare Huon Pine saplings. Experience the thrill of white water jet boating through gentle rapids and shingle beds of the Huon River.

Explore part of Australia’s longest navigable estuarine river, the Tamar, and the beautiful Cataract Gorge on this relaxing half-day cruise. Look out for water birds, cruise past vineyards, and get a glimpse into rural Australia. Sample local foods (buffet style) and Tasmanian wine as you chill out on board. This is an ideal tour for travelers who want to slow down and admire the natural scenery.

Instead of tiring yourself out, put your feet up and enjoy a relaxed afternoon cruise on the Tamar River from Launceston. Admire the views as you sail into Cataract Gorge, through Launceston’s riverfront precinct, past Tamar Island, and more. Learn about the area's culture, history, and nature while enjoying snacks, tea, and coffee.

Glide along the Tamar River toward Cataract Gorge on a scenic 90-minute kayak tour from Launceston. Use your feet to drive the pedal-powered kayak, and follow your guide along the North Esk River and Tamar with your hands free to steer and snap photos. Admire the North Esk waterfront, cruise under the King’s Bridge, and paddle along the lower Cataract Gorge to admire the rugged cliffs and forested slopes and watch for wildlife. Choose multiple session daily departure to suit your schedule. Numbers are limited for a small-group experience.

Experience the Tasman Peninsula by both land and sea on this day trip from Hobart that includes a cruise along the coast of Tasman National Park. Gaze up at towering sea cliffs, look for wildlife like falcons and seals, and learn about the peninsula’s ecosystem. Then visit the UNESCO–listed Port Arthur Historic Site for an in-depth look at Australia’s penal history at this former penal colony.

Discover the incredible Tasman Peninsula on this full-day sea kayaking tour from Hobart. This intimate, small-group tour is a great way to get up close and personal to the dramatic landscapes—including dizzyingly high sea cliffs, gravity-defying rock columns, and water-carved caves. You’ll also paddle over a semi-submerged shipwreck, enjoy a gourmet lunch with snacks and refreshments in a secluded cove, and see plenty of wild and wonderful sea life including seals.

Experience Hobart from the water on a 3-hour sailing tour by ocean-racing yacht. As you glide along the River Derwent, admire the city’s coastal scenery, look for wildlife and help the crew with tasks like trimming the sails or grinding the winch. Or, simply relax and enjoy the fresh air. Gourmet snacks will be served while you listen to tales about sailing on the high seas.

See the best of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Maria Island and its surrounding scenic isles on a comprehensive tour, including a sightseeing cruise, a tour of the Darlington Convict Settlement, and more. Gain a deeper understanding of what you see with live commentary; plus, keep an eye out for native wildlife along the way, including kangaroos and wombats.

Discover the remarkable coastline and history of Maria Island from both water and land, gaining a unique perspective on its ancient geology, secluded bays and fascinating past. Cruise to Ile Des Phoques and venture deep into Tasmania's largest granite sea caves including Rainbow Cave with is natural skylight. Take in the stunning views of Maria Island, including famous landmarks such as the Painted Cliffs, Fossil Cliffs, and mountain peaks of Bishop and Clerk. Look for a myriad of wildlife including seals, dolphins, wombats, kangaroos, eagles, wallabies, albatross and whales (during migration). Step ashore to spend around two hours exploring Maria Island. Join a guided walk of Darlington's World Heritage-listed convict settlement. Lunch is provided and can be enjoyed during your time on the island.

Discover the scenic coastline, beaches, national parks, flora, and fauna of Bruny Island on an easy full-day tour from Hobart. Travel via ferry to the island (tickets included), and walk through the temperate rainforest. Stop at a viewing platform at the Neck, and sample locally made products, such as chocolate and honey. Explore the beautiful Tasmanian landscape without having to drive yourself and return to Hobart in time for dinner.

Visit some of the top attractions outside of Hobart on this day trip to Mount Wellington, Mount Field National Park, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, and the historical town of Richmond.

The Gordon River winds through the wilderness, so its rainforest and the ruins of Sarah Island can only be reached from the water. Cruise out from Strahan by catamaran instead, stepping ashore for a walk through the rainforest of the South West Wilderness. Stop at Sarah Island to see its former convict settlement, with a buffet dinner featuring local specialties served on board.

Explore Hobart from the water on a kayak tour with an experienced guide. You have three options to choose from when booking: a 2.5-hour tour from central Hobart, a 7-hour tour past cliffs, caves and beaches or a 10-hour Tasman Peninsula tour. You’ll either admire Hobart’s bustling waterfront along the River Derwent, or take in the scenic wilderness outside the city on one of the full-day adventures. Learn paddling techniques from your guide, who also provides narration about the city and surrounding region.

Spend a relaxing day in Hobart on the water by traveling from the city to Peppermint Bay on a Derwent River cruise. You have the chance to see dolphins in the d’Entrecasteaux Channel, and then hop off the boat for lunch at a waterfront restaurant in Peppermint Bay with a view of Bruny Island.

Book a 1- or 2-day pass on a Hobart hop-on hop-off bus tour for an easy way to explore the city's top attractions at your own pace. Travel by double-decker red bus to 20 stops around the city, where you can hop off whenever you wish to visit the places that interest you. Alternatively, opt to stay onboard the bus for the full loop.