Maria Island Cruises Full Day Tour from Hobart

Maria Island Cruises explores the coastline of Maria Island and Ile des Phoques in southern Tasmania.  

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, accessible only by boat, and venture deep into Tasmania's largest granite sea caves. Experience the spectacular Rainbow Cave, where a massive natural skylight floods the cavern with light, revealing shifting colours across the water and granite walls.

On Maria Island's eastern side, take in sweeping views of the 620-metre high dolerite peaks of Bishop and Clerk rising above the Tasman Sea. At the Fossil Cliffs, discover limestone containing marine fossils dating back around 300 million years and explore limestone sea caves at the water's edge. Look for the spring-fed Green Waterfall and hanging garden, hidden beneath towering cliffs and only visible from the sea.

Along Maria Island's western shoreline, admire the patterned and coloured sandstone of the Painted Cliffs, sculpted by wind and waves and rising above the clear blue waters of Mercury Passage.

Step ashore to spend around two hours exploring Maria Island. Join a guided walk through Darlington's World Heritage-listed convict settlement, then enjoy time to explore at your own pace. 

Maria Island and the surrounding waters are home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, both on land and at sea.  Be on the lookout for Australian fur seals at Ile des Phoques and common and bottlenose dolphins, seabirds and whales during migration.

Indicative Itinerary

The tour begins at our Pennicott Wilderness Journeys booking centre in Hobart.  This is located in the Dock Head Building, Franklin Wharf on Hobart's waterfront, next to the Constitution Dock Lifting Bridge.  You need to check-in by 7:45am ready for an 8:00am bus departure.  The tour arrives back in Hobart at approximately 5:30pm.   

A typical itinerary is as follows:

7:45am     Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre in Hobart
8:00am     Bus Departs
9:30am     Arrive Triabunna, Morning Tea
10:00am   Cruise departs
1:15pm     Walk on Maria Island
3:15pm     Boat departs Maria Island
3:45pm     Arrive back at Triabunna
5:30pm     Arrive back in Hobart

Morning Tea & Lunch

Your day includes morning tea and lunch featuring smoked meats, salad and cheeses served alongside a locally baked bread roll, fruit and a sweet treat.  Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.