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The drive from Hobart to Port Arthur down the Tasman Peninsula forms part of the Convict Trail Touring Route - allow at least 90 minutes. Those with a penchant for seaside villages, cool-climate vineyards, oysters and sweeping seascapes should allow longer. If you're driving after dark, take your time as our native animals tend to wander out at dusk.
Better yet, plan your trip with a night or more on the Tasman Peninsula. Further information for planning your trip is available (PDF 1.7Mb).
Soak up window views all the way – book a bus seat. There are three regular passenger transport services between Hobart and Port Arthur. For timetable and fare information please click on the links below:
There are also a number of charter bus operators that service the Tasman Peninsula. For more information on other charter bus operators that service the Tasman Peninsula please contact the Visitor Information Centre at Port Arthur Historic Site on +61 3 6251 2371 (between 9am and 4:30pm Australian Eastern Standard Time).
There are a few things to consider prior to your Three Capes Track walk, such as the time of year you’d like to go (bookings taken year-round) and level of fitness required.
Tasmania's weather is variable no matter what the season, so it's important you’re well prepared. Layers will be your best friend in these parts. The Three Capes Track has water on three sides, providing a maritime climate that moderates temperatures compared to other parts of Tasmania. Day time maximum temperatures average 16-19°C in summer and 10-12°C in winter.
Why not base your Tasmanian trip around seasonal highlights:
Spring (September - November): coastal heath in flower, migrating whales.
Summer (Dec – Feb): Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, summer music and food/wine festivals including MONA FOMA and the Taste of Summer.
Autumn (March – May): migrating whales, short-tailed shearwaters annual migration, orchids flowering.
Winter (June – August): Night skies, acacia trees in bloom, winter swells crashing into towering cliffs, winter music and food/wine festivals including the Festival of Voices and Dark MOFO.
If you exercise regularly, and are capable of walking about four hours daily over four consecutive days, you will be fine. The dry track is well formed and all steeper sections have well-built steps. Along the way there are artfully-crafted seats to slip off your pack and take a breather. For those looking to acquire fitness, we recommend by starting with a 30 minute daily walk and build up to four hours. Be sure to trial walking with the pack you intend to take, so you feel fully prepared.
Not sure what to bring? Please check the packing list to make sure you have all the essentials. Remember to pack your gear and sleeping bag in waterproof sacks inside your pack or have a good quality waterproof pack cover to keep your items dry in wet conditions.
Your gear should fit into a 50-litre pack and weigh 12kg (including 2 litres of water).
Not sure how to cater? You will need to bring 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners, plus daily snacks.
The Port Arthur Historic Site gift shop has a broad range of dehydrated meals, snacks and beverages available for purchase. We recommend you contact Port Arthur on + 61 3 6251 2371 or email tvin@portarthur.org.au to pre order your selection.
Please note that the cabins have cooking facilities, gas cooktops and basic cookware (e.g. pots and pans).
You will need to bring your own knives, forks, spoons, cup, plate, bowl and tea towel.
There is no refrigeration, microwaves or ovens available.
Shared kitchen/dining areas are equipped with heating, basic cooking facilities, solar-powered lighting, USB charge stations (5 volt) and running water. Sleeping quarters feature individual bunk platforms with mattresses, and toilets are a short walk away. Click here for a sneak peek at the facilities! There's even an outdoor shower along the way and a welcome party of one - your Parks and Wildlife Host Ranger.
To keep up to date with the latest Tasmanian travel advice regarding covid safe behaviours and border restrictions go to www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au – Coming to Tasmania.
Parks and Wildlife Service continue to promote Covid Safe Behaviours and have taken several steps towards ensuring Covid-19 safe practices are met, to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while on track.
