Welcome to Maria Island

Maria Island is Tasmania’s only island National Park. A very special place, rich with convict history predating the establishment of the Port Arthur penal settlement by 5 years (Est 1825) and Darlington now represents the best intact convict probation station in Australia. Fascinating early settler accomplishments, the island is also world famous for its distinctive and rare geological formations. Used as a sanctuary for species of Tasmanian wildlife for over 50 years, the island is fast becoming known as the best place in the world to experience wombats, kangaroos, cape barren geese and Tasmanian Devils in the wild!

Take the short boat journey from Triabunna and spend a day or longer exploring Maria Island. This is a place for wandering through historic ruins, taking coastal walks, ascending mountains, exploring from the saddle of a bike, encountering incredible wildlife or simply relaxing on a perfectly beautiful beach. Take time to explore Darlington Probation Station—part of the 11 Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property—and other historic buildings and ruins, including the elegant Coffee Palace, old cement works and enigmatic remains of farm buildings. 

East Coast Cruises

East Coast Cruises is located in the township of Triabunna (1 hour, 15 minutes from Hobart) and they specialise in cruise and walk day tours to Maria Island National Park. The team operates a custom-built boat that is designed to explore some of Australia's largest sea caves. The boat has two decks that provide shelter, comfort and unobstructed viewing of Maria's enthralling marine life, unique cliff formations and giant sea caves. Unique experiences exploring hidden gems with unfiltered views and no crowds!

Award winning Cruise & Walk day tour of Tasmania's stunning Maria Island National Park. The only tour to combine viewing wild seals, dolphins, wombats, kangaroos, Cape Barren geese, eagles, wallabies, albatross and whales (during migration) with World famous geological landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage convict history and lunch at a remote pristine beach.  An amazing day tour from Hobart.

Inclusions

• 4-hour scenic cruise
• 2-hour stay on Maria Island
• Guided walk of Darlington convict settlement
• Buffet lunch (suitable for all dietary requirements)
• Driver/guide
• Live commentary on board
• Professional guide
• Buffet lunch
• Snacks
• Chilled water
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Soda water
• Soft drinks
• Orange juice
• Wombat viewing
• Seal viewing (morning tea & coffee with Australian fur seals!)
• Kangaroo viewing
• Dolphin watching
• Whale watching

Your day at a glance:

• Meet at the Triabunna marina 8:45am and board the "Spirit of Maria"
• Depart at 9:00am from Triabunna for a short journey to Darlington for snacks and refreshments
• From here, we will take a 4 hour cruise to one of two locations. Choose to head to the renowned Ile Des Phoques to visit playful fur seals and giant colourful sea caves or circumnavigate around the entire Maria Island coast!
• In the afternoon, both cruises return to visit the famous Fossil Cliffs and Painted Cliffs before docking at Darlington for a relaxed afternoon guided walk of the Darlington convict settlement, exploring history and the island's friendly wildlife.
• Returns to Triabunna at 4:30pm - 4:45pm.​

Departure times & locations
Tour departs Visitors Centre Esplanade West, Triabunna at 9:00am. Hotel pickups are available at an additional cost of $30 per person for return transfer to Hobart. Guests located outside of the Hobart CBD can choose to meet at the Hobart Travel & Information Centre at 20 Davey St, Hobart. Returns at 5pm to original departure point.

Tour Info

Travelling with children
Tours are perfect for children and families! Children of all ages are welcome aboard our boats and we take many children along on our cruises. 

Special Family Pricing
We offer special rates for families. We have provided concessions for children between 2yo - 15yo and families (2A + 2Ch). Infants under 2yo travel for free. Children 16yo and older can be declared as students and are available to use the concession rate. Please check the booking for form for up to date family pricing.

Please note:

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Please book your Hobart shuttle bus separately by choosing the tour + bus option if you do require the pickup
• The vessel is safe and comfortable and provides protection from the elements
• The vessel has a comfortable on board toilet, which doubles as a change room for those wanting to swim
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Waterproof jackets and pants available onboard the boat
• Seasickness tablets and wristbands provided to all guests if required
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

• Please note that tours will not be available between June and October 1st 2023, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

Instant Booking & Mobile Friendly Tickets
Check availability & book here to secure you spot on Maria Island Scenic Cruises. Pre-booking is essential. Please do not turn up on the day without a booking.
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