Port Arthur Historic Site

Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula is Australia’s most intact and evocative convict site. Port Arthur is one of Australia’s great tourism destinations. The Historic Site has over 30 buildings, ruins and restored period homes set in 40 hectares of landscaped grounds. Allow plenty of time to fully experience all that Port Arthur has to offer.

Site entry is valid for two consecutive days and includes an Introductory Guided Walking Tour, Harbour Cruise, access to Museum, Convict Study Centre and Interpretation Gallery and the site of the Dockyard.

For a small additional fee you can also cruise to the Isle of the Dead and join a guided tour of Port Arthur’s island burial ground. An insight into the lives of those who were part of the penal settlement including convicts, soldiers, civilians and their families.

Or take a trip to Point Puer Boys Prison. The first reformatory in the British Empire built exclusively for juvenile male convicts; Point Puer was renowned for its regime of stern discipline and harsh punishment. See the remains of structures built by the boys in a bush landscape little changed since the 19th century.

Accolades:

  • 2008 Tasmanian Tourism Award Winner: Major Tourist Attractions
  • 2008 Tasmanian Tourism Award Winner: Heritage and Cultural Tourism
  • 2008 The Australian Travel and Tourism Award for Best Heritage Tourism.

Article on Tasmania’s History and Heritage

Content: Tourism Tasmania and ATDW

 

Port Arthur Accommodation