Port Arthur Historic Site [official]
The Port Arthur Historic Site offers a compelling glimpse into Australia's convict past, focusing on the penal settlement, convict labour, and the profound influence on the nation's development and colonial life. As a place or secondary-punishment, Port Arthur was specifically designed as a prison for re-offending male convicts.
Additional tours can be selected to be included in your ticket:
The 45 min Essentials Tour is our most accessible guided tour providing the essential history and stories of Port Arthur.
The 90 min Premium Tour delves deeper into the stories behind our iconic buildings and their fascinating past on this small group guided walk.
For the 40 min Isle of the Dead tour, step off the harbour cruise for a guided walking tour around the final resting place for over 1,000 convicts, soldiers, and free settlers.
On the 60 min Escapes tour, hear tales of the desperate convicts, determined to escape.
Options
Escape from Port Arthur
Tour at 11am, Cruise at 1pm: Meet cunning characters on the Escape From Port Arthur tour at 11am, with a harbour cruise at 1pm. See listing for details.
What's included in Port Arthur Historic Site [official]
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Port Arthur Historic Site
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site, located 90 minutes’ drive southeast of Hobart, brings Australia’s early convict history to life. The Port Arthur Historic Site covers 100 acres of gardens and grounds, with more than 30 historic buildings and ruins to explore. All entry passes are valid for two consecutive days and include a harbour cruise, a self-guided audio experience and complimentary site talks throughout the day.
Inclusions
- Tours, as selected in options
- Self-guided audio experience
- Map of the site
- Access to the World Heritage Site, gardens, historic buildings, and ruins for 2 consecutive days
- 20-minute harbour cruise
- Talks by expert guides, at iconic buildings, throughout the day
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Tours depart from the foyer at the Port Arthur Historic Site Visitors Centre. The Visitors Centre also offers cafe/bistro, free parking, and visitor information.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
Port Arthur Historic Site is a 90-minute drive from Hobart and the journey offers some of the best sightseeing in Tasmania. Free car parking is available onsite. A few simple preparations before your visit will make sure your time at Port Arthur Historic Site is the best it can be. The Port Arthur Historic Site covers more than 40 hectares (100 acres) of open land. While you will explore a number of intact buildings during your visit, many of the historic ruins are without roofs, and most of your visit will be spent outdoors. The site’s coastal location means you can experience sudden weather changes. Make sure you’re prepared for sun, rain, wind, cold and warmth! Sunscreen, hats and wet-weather ponchos can also be purchased in the Gift Shop.