Tasmanian Coastal Discovery

The first stop on your Tasmania expedition journey is Bruny Island, home to dramatic landscapes and fresh, local produce. From Adventure Bay on the eastern coast of the island, set off on a half-day cruise to the rugged southern coastline of South Bruny Island. Explore deep sea caves, pass the incredible rock formation ‘The Monument’ that juts out from the ocean, and spot seals, dolphins and sea birds along the way.

Afterwards, stretch your legs on a leisurely stroll along the coastal cliffs of Fluted Cape where you may glimpse a Bennett’s wallaby, a species endemic to Bruny Island. On your walk towards Grassy Point, an easy-grade walk which boasts spectacular ocean views, learn about the history of southern right whales in the region, and how they were almost hunted to extinction before the whaling industry decline in the mid-1840s. Pass the ruins of these old whaling stations during your walk.

Your ship continues north along Tasmania’s eastern coast to Maria Island, a wildlife wonderland home to wombats, Cape Barren geese, eastern grey kangaroos, Bennett’s wallabies and pademelons. Keen birdwatchers can enjoy the chance to spy endemic birdlife including green rosellas, hooded plovers and the Forty Spotted Pardalote.

Beyond an excellent array of wildlife, the island is also bursting with some of the state’s most fascinating history. Step back in time to the convict era in the World Heritage-listed Darlington settlement, where restored buildings are a reminder that the island served as a penal colony not once, but twice in its history before it was abandoned in the late 19th century. Afterwards, walk to the Painted Cliffs, striking sandstone cliffs that, through iron deposits, have been stained orange, red and purple.

If you’re feeling active today, join the Fossil Cliffs walk and Reservoir Circuit. Both walks follow easy paths that cross through stunning natural landscapes, with opportunities to spot the local wildlife.

The Coral Discoverer approaches the instantly recognisable pink granite mountains and white-sand shores of the Freycinet Peninsula. On land, join a guided walk along the Isthmus Track to the famous Wineglass Bay. This perfect crescent of wild but pristine coastline is the star attraction of Freycinet National Park, and a dip in the iridescent waters after the trek through bushland is a worthy reward. Alternatively, make your way to the Wineglass Bay Lookout where you can admire magnificent views of the bay from above. Reboard your ship this afternoon for the short journey to the secluded Schouten Island, where you will have time to enjoy a leisurely beach stroll.

Over the next three days, your ship traces the state’s coastline towards the southwest corner of Tasmania, where nature reigns wild. This World Heritage-listed wilderness area is Tasmania’s largest national park, and much of the landscapes are inaccessible by road. Aboard your small expedition ship, you have privileged access to this rugged corner. Admire landscapes that have been shaped by the Southern Ocean and the Roaring Forties winds, from craggy dolerite mountains, meandering rivers, ancient forests, sheltered button grass plains and vast lakes.

Spend your time in Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour enjoying the rare opportunity to hike, kayak and explore the area (weather permitting). Your ship’s Xplorer tender vessels offer an ideal way to explore the coastline up close as you learn about the Indigenous Australians who first walked this land. Along the way, keep an eye out for the rare and endangered orange-bellied parrot. Please note: access to Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour is subject to annual permits being granted by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife.

Spend time ashore exploring the Huon Valley, once the hub of Tasmania’s apple-growing industry. Nowadays, you’ll find more than just apples flourishing in this area. Its burgeoning food and wine scene sees gourmands flock here to meet the local producers, sip ciders and wines, and feast on local cheeses, honey, cherries, salmon, shellfish and, of course, apples. After exploring the region’s culinary offerings, immerse yourself in its natural splendours. Wander along the banks of the Huon River, lined with charming towns, orchards and boutique wineries. Or, on the D’entrecasteaux Channel, take a stroll along its pristine beaches. Return to your ship this evening.

The soaring sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula are what put this region on the map: the 300-metre-tall cliffs of Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy are the tallest found in the southern hemisphere. As your ship approaches land, look out for fur seals lazing on the rocks, dolphins feeding and graceful albatross flying overhead. During your time here, visit the remote beach at Fortescue Bay, stretch your legs on a hike along sections of the coastal Tasman Trail, join a scenic Xplorer cruise to explore the rugged coastal, or kayak in Canoe Bay.

Explore the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Site today, the best preserved convict settlement and one of the most significant historic places in Australia. Situated on the narrow slice of land known as Eaglehawk Neck, this isolated location once served as a penal colony for British and Australian convicts for over 40 years. Follow a knowledgeable guide through the grounds, exploring the historic buildings, ruins, heritage gardens and restored period homes while you learn the details of the site before it closed its doors for the last time in 1877.

Your cruise comes to an end on arrival in Hobart after breakfast. Disembark and be transferred to the airport for your onwards flight, or to your post-tour accommodation if you are continuing your APT adventure.