Port Arthur, Richmond and Lavender Active Day Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Hobart and want to get a real sense of Tasmania’s history, scenery, and local charm, this Port Arthur, Richmond, and Lavender Active Day Tour could be just what you’re after. It packs a lot into roughly 11 hours, transporting you from convict ruins to quaint villages, with scenic walks and coastal views along the way.

On paper, it sounds pretty appealing: entrance to the Port Arthur Historic Site, a harbor cruise, a visit to a lavender farm, plus a stop in the picturesque town of Richmond. We love that it covers such a diverse range of experiences in one day, especially if you’re short on time but still want a well-rounded taste of the area.

That said, there are a few caveats. Some reviews mention that the day can feel a bit rushed, especially at Port Arthur, and that the lavender farm visit might be shorter or less immersive than expected. So, this tour suits travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule and keen to see multiple highlights, rather than those looking for in-depth exploration of any one site.

Overall, if you’re curious about Tasmania’s convict past, love scenic coastal walks, and enjoy a touch of local flavor with food stops, this tour offers a practical and engaging way to spend a day.

Key Points

• Diverse sites: Combines history, nature, and local farms in one trip.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides add context and stories, making the day more engaging.
• Value for money: Entry fees, cruise, and guide included, making it a convenient package.
• Busy itinerary: The day is fast-paced, with limited time at some attractions.
• Scenic walks: Waterfall Bay track offers stunning cliff top views.
• Mixed reviews on timing: Some find it rushed, especially at Port Arthur and Richmond.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Early Start and Long Drive

The day begins bright and early at 7:30 am in Hobart. You’ll hop onto a small group minibus, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. Expect around 11 hours of sightseeing—so prepare for a full day.

The drive takes you directly to the Tasman Peninsula, known for its rugged coastlines and dramatic cliffs. This initial journey sets the tone—beautiful scenery and engaging commentary from your guide. The tight schedule means you’ll be moving from stop to stop without long breaks, so packing snacks and being prepared for a busy day helps.

Pirates Bay and Eaglehawk Neck

Your first real glimpse of Tasmania’s coastline is at Pirates Bay, famous for its striking ocean views. This spot is a great photo op, and your guide usually shares stories about the area’s history. Then, a walk along Waterfall Bay track follows — about 2 km of undulating coastal trail perched atop cliffs. Expect around 45-60 minutes for this walk, which offers some of the best cliff top vistas.

Many reviewers appreciate this walk, describing it as a highlight. We loved the way this section combines light exercise with jaw-dropping scenery. The trail is moderate, so it’s suitable for most ages with moderate fitness.

Port Arthur Lavender Farm

Next up is the lavender farm, a peaceful spot with a cafe and shop. Here, you can stroll among the lavender fields (when in bloom) or enjoy the ocean views. The farm also has a distillery, and the lavender-themed treats are a hit for those who love local food.

However, some visitors mention that the lavender farm visit can feel rushed or a bit less authentic if the lavender isn’t in bloom—something to keep in mind if your trip is outside the flowering season. Still, the farm’s cafe offers some tasty options, and the shop is perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Port Arthur Historic Site

The centerpiece of the tour is the Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO-listed location with convict ruins, old buildings, and stories that evoke Tasmania’s brutal and fascinating past. Entrance and a guided walking tour are included. Your guide provides context and interesting anecdotes, but some reviews note that the guided tour around the grounds is limited and that you might feel hurried.

You’ll also enjoy the Harbour Cruise around the Isle of the Dead, which gives a different perspective on the site’s history, especially the convict cemeteries. Expect around 4 hours at Port Arthur, which is enough to see the highlights but possibly not enough for an in-depth exploration for some.

Many visitors find the site haunting and thought-provoking. One reviewer pointed out that “Port Arthur is very interesting and has lots of history,” though others note that the short time can feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to explore more on your own.

Richmond and Return to Hobart

On the way back, the tour stops in the historic town of Richmond—famous for its well-preserved Georgian architecture, a charming bridge, and lovely cafes. You’ll have about 45 minutes to wander, grab a coffee, or browse the shops.

Some reviews mention visiting too late in the day when shops are closing, which can limit your experience. Still, this stop offers a nice breather after a busy day, and many find it a pleasant way to end the trip.

What Do Travelers Say?

Many reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides. Comments like “Ian’s knowledge made for a great experience” and “Nick was an excellent raconteur” show how much guides can elevate the experience. Several reviewers also mention the scenic views, from coastal cliffs to historic ruins, as memorable highlights.

Of course, not everyone found the pace perfect. Some felt the day was too rushed, especially at Port Arthur and Richmond. One noted, “The trip was quite rushed, and the lavender farm was a disappointment as the lavender was not in bloom.” It’s worth considering that, outside peak flowering season, some stops might not meet expectations.

Food options are limited during the day—there are opportunities at the lavender farm and cafes in Richmond, but no included meals. Many travelers enjoy sampling local treats, especially the lavender-flavored goodies.

The overall value seems good, especially considering entrance fees, the harbor cruise, and guide services are included in the price of around $122 per person. For a day packed with variety, it’s a reasonable deal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those interested in a mix of history, scenery, and local culture. If you like guided commentary and appreciate seeing multiple sites without the hassle of planning each stop, you’ll find it satisfying.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who are comfortable with a busy schedule and don’t mind moving quickly from place to place. Families with older children might appreciate the range of activities, but the walk around Waterfall Bay and the historical site might be less engaging for very young kids.

Those seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration of one location might prefer to visit Port Arthur or Richmond independently. But if you want an efficient way to tick off some key highlights in one day, this tour covers the essentials well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with moderate fitness?
Yes, the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The walks are manageable, but be prepared for some undulating terrain, especially on the Waterfall Bay track.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers all entrance fees (including the Port Arthur Historic Site), a harbor cruise, guided commentary, and transportation in a small group setting. Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased at stops.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend approximately 4 hours at Port Arthur, 30 minutes at the lavender farm, and about 45 minutes in Richmond. The drive and walks fill the rest of the day.

Is the harbor cruise worth it?
Absolutely. It provides a different perspective on the historic site, especially the Isle of the Dead. Many travelers enjoy this quiet, scenic boat ride.

What if the lavender isn’t in bloom?
Some reviewers mention visiting when the lavender isn’t in full bloom, which can lessen the experience. The farm still offers a pleasant walk and a cafe, but the visual impact may be reduced.

Are there options to customize the day?
The tour is mostly fixed, but some guides are flexible about timing at stops, especially if you’re in a small group. However, the schedule is tight, so don’t expect to linger too long.

Can I visit Port Arthur independently instead?
Yes, but this tour offers the convenience of transportation, guided insights, and multiple stops, making it a good value if you prefer to avoid logistics.

Is it good for families?
While not specifically tailored for children, older kids with interest in history and nature will enjoy the varied stops. The walks and scenery are generally family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring your day pack with essentials—water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. The tour doesn’t include meals, so plan accordingly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Port Arthur, Richmond, and Lavender Active Day Tour offers a practical way to experience Tasmania’s diverse charms in one day. With a knowledgeable guide, scenic walks, and a variety of sites, it balances history, nature, and local flavor in a way that most travelers find rewarding.

It’s a good pick for those who like a packed schedule, enjoy guided commentary, and want to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. Keep in mind that some might find the pace a bit quick, especially at Port Arthur, so if you prefer to explore slowly, consider spending more time independently.

Overall, for around $122, you get a well-rounded introduction to some of Tasmania’s most compelling sights, making it a solid choice for your Hobart itinerary.

Enjoy your trip, and remember—sometimes the best memories come from those spontaneous moments and the stories you find along the way.