~ Tasman Island Cruise ~ Port Arthur Lavender Farm ~ Maingon Blowhole ~ Remarkable Cave ~

Today we were going for an adventurous Tasman Island Cruise, a 3 hours speed boat tour by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. With the red oversized waterproof jumpsuit, we took the coach to Pirates Bay for boarding. Once on board the custom-built boat, everyone is seated with seat belts fastened for safety reasons. As the sea may get rough, the tour guide provides everyone with ginger pills to prevent sea sickness.

The cruise travels through the stunning coastline of the Tasman Peninsula, giving a close view of the spectacular vertical seacliff. We were lucky with the weather as the sun was finally out after days of rain. Days of rainfall provide the waterfall bay with a breathtaking show.

We never spot any whales, dolphins, or penguins; only some fur seals and seabirds.

As the boat approached Tasman Island, the guide pointed to us the highest and most isolated lighthouse on top of the island.

From Tasman island, the boat travels back to the pirate bay at full speed. The ride was exciting due to the cold wind, rough waves, and occasionally large swells. Almost everyone onboard was freezing stiff during disembarkment.

Tasman Island Cruises by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys is priced at AUD$155/pp. To avoid disappointment, advance booking is recommended.

Port Arthur Lavender cafe provides not only delicious local produce meals but also a picturesque landscape view. We had a stroll around its garden and pond after a relaxing lunch.

We took an easy 3.3km walk to the Maingon Blowhole. The route weaves through the coastal vegetation and with views of the coastline.

The blowhole was the result of the collapsed sea cave. We did not witness any mists rising during our visit may be due to the low tides.

Another attraction not to be missed is the Remarkable Cave. A short walk down a set of steps brings you to the custom design platform with a direct close view of the cave. After years of crashing waves, the sandstone wall collapsed and formed the tunnel-shaped cave that stands today. The thrilling scene was watching the waves rush through the tunnels.

The Maingon Lookout viewing platform has amazing coastline views of the Tasman Sea. We had some quiet time, listening to the sea waves, on the platform before calling it a day.

Overnight at Stewarts Bay Lodge