Tasman Coastal Cruise

SIGNATAURE EXPERIENCE

Today you'll travel through the scenic wine-producing areas of northern Tasmania en route to the Bridestowe Lavender Estate. Here, take a tour of the distillery and sample unique lavender-infused fare.

After visiting Bridestowe Lavender Estate, traverse Weldborough Pass and admire the views of forested hills and farmland. Then, travel to the largest town on the north-east coast of Tasmania, St Helens. Known as the game fishing capital of Tasmania, enjoy a two-night stay on the edge of Georges Bay.

Stay: Two Nights, St Helens, Panorama Hotel

• Breakfast
• Dinner

Explore the pristine areas of Tasmania, where you’ll cruise amid some the country’s most amazing landscape. The exact route will be managed by your Captain and is largely dictated by weather and ocean conditions, in order to maximise your expeditionary experience. Your cruise itinerary will feature the following destinations:

D'Entrecasteaux Channel & Huon River

Cruise the pristine Huon River and far south coastline of D'Entrecasteaux Channel. Visit the Wooden Boat Centre at Franklin, viewing the production of hand-crafted timber boats. Later, visit Grandvewe Cheeses and learn about the cheesemaking process including a cheese tasting.

Port Davey & Bathurst Harbour

Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour form a reserve three times as big as Sydney Harbour - and every bit as picturesque. Spend two days (weather permitting) exploring the Tasman Wilderness World Heritage-listed area. Aboard your small ship, you can encounter the tiniest nooks of this untouched place - a feat only possible in a small-sized vessel. Sheltered by beautiful mountain scenery, the Narrows is remarkably undisturbed. If you’re feeling active, perhaps experience kayaking in Bramble Cove, or embark on a hike along the Balmoral Hill Track before trying your hand at spotting the elusive, orange-bellied parrot.

Bruny Island & Adventure Bay

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast of Bruny Island, admiring the dolerite cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for Australian fur seals lounging on their rocky home. Enjoy a moderate nature walk to the spectacular lookout on the Fluted Cape track, where you may spot Bruny Island’s endemic Bennett’s Wallabies.

Maria Island National Park

Walk among Maria Island National Park’s historic ruins, secluded bays and rugged cliffs. Be sure to keep an eye out for local endemic wildlife such as Forester kangaroos, Bennett’s wallabies and wombats. With ample time at Maria Island, take the opportunity to walk to Fossil cliffs and Reservoir circuit.

Freycinet National Park & Schouten Island

On Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park is a place of wild beauty. Enjoy a guided hike along the Isthmus Track, with magnificent views from the lookout and the opportunity to swim in the azure waters of Wineglass Bay. From here, the crystal waters are on full display before you, as you cruise close to Ile des Phoques and Schouten Island.

Tasman National Park & Fortescue Bay

On the Tasman Peninsula, gaze up at the 300-metre sea cliffs of Tasman National Park. In this area of astonishing natural diversity, watch for Australian fur seals on the rocky shores, view playful dolphins feeding and magnificent albatross soaring in the sky. Take the opportunity to hike sections of the Coast Tasman trail, viewing the spectacular high dolerite sea cliffs. Visit Fortescue Bay and if you’re feeling active, perhaps kayak from the back of the ship at Canoe Bay.

Port Arthur Historic Site

Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site, Australia’s most intact, evocative, and notorious convict prison, on a guided tour. See the famous sandstone Penitentiary, then visit the Convict Church and Separate Prison.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner