Enchanting Tasmania @ Port Arthur

On our second day, we headed to Port Arthur region for a three hour cruise along the extraordinary coastline of Tasman National Park, between Eaglehawk Neck and Port Arthur. Port Arthur is Tasmania's most famous convict settlement that combines an idyllic coastal setting with a brutal history.

The cruise was conducted by Pennicoot Wilderness Journey.  As we set off in the morning, it started to rain and from a far, dark clouds began to gather. With a little faith that the cruise will not be cancelled, we headed to the jetty, which is approximately 50 mins drive from Hobart.  

The scenery on our way to the jetty was definitely breathtaking. There was already a crowd of people when we arrived at the mini general store near the jetty. The guides told us that there were some swelling at the sea and hence we could expect the cruise to be quite bumpy. To help us alleviate sea sickness, the guides gave us some ginger pills which would supposedly help to us feel less nausea.  

We were given red wet suit to prevent getting wet from the splashing waves and  after everyone was settled, we began our Tasman sea exploration in this iconic yellow boat. It was windy and icy cold as we sail out to the Tasman sea.  

As we cruised along the coast, we saw magnificent sea cliffs, rugged and spectacular coastal landscapes, waterfalls, deep sea caves, and amazing wildlife such as seals, a variety of sea birds and albatross. It was a pity that we could not spot any dolphins. However, we did chance upon a whale from a distance.

We then stopped by the spectacular dolerite cliffs of Cape Pillar for some photo-taking sessions. As the waves were getting rougher, the yellow boat bobbled up and down like a plastic bottle in the water. At this point in time, some passengers could not hold any longer and started to vomit. 

Apart from the spectacular sea cliffs, I was really captivated by the towering sea stacks like Cathedral Rock and the Totem Pole ( a slender 65m tall sea stack). The Totem Pole was made famous when in 1998, a British climber, suffered a traumatic head injury while rappelling into the sea stack. His partner spearheaded a massive rescue effort, raising him back up the steep cliff and ruling 8km back for help. 

Overall, I had a wonderful time witnessing such a spectacular coastline and sea cliffs. The guides were dedicated to provide world-class customer service and gave interactive insights on the geology formation of the cliffs. I really enjoy very moment of my cruise and would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves rock formation and wildlife at the sea.  

Lunch@Port Arthur Lavender Farm 

We spotted Port Arthur Lavender Farm on our way to the Eaglehawk neck. The farm is nestled within seven hectares of lavender, rainforest and lakes overlooking the ocean at Long Bay. I heard that the cafe was a family run business which explains why the staff were all so friendly and made us feel so homely. I do like the quaint ambience surrounded by lush greenery and of course lavender which were unfortunately not in full bloom at the time of visit. 

We ordered a beef stack and Tasmania scallop, bacon and chorizo skewer. As expected, the culinary was excellent - Beef was tender, scallops were fresh and chorizo was pleasantly good. We also had home-made gelato which was soft and creamy! 

There is also a gift shop within the cafe that sell a variety of items ranging from lavender soap, candles, honey, wines, towel etc. 

Eaglehawk Neck 

Before we end our day, we stopped by Eaglehawk Neck for some spectacular sight of the sea cliffs and crashing waves.  I was not able to describe how grand the cliffs are so this is definitely a recommended place of interest for anyone visiting Tasmania! It was kind of hypnotizing to watch and hear the waves crashing onto the cliff!

  It was around 4pm and we had to leave for the farmland, our next destination.