Maria Island, situated on the east coast of Tasmania, is a tiny island not known by many people but an absolute jewel that is worth visiting on any trip to Tasmania. Large impressive mountains, gorgeous beaches stunning cliffs, fossils, prolific wildlife and a rich convict history make this a great place to visit.

The Painted Cliffs, in the Maria Island National Park, Maria Island

Understand

Maria Island was sighted by Abel Tasman in 1642. Seal and whale fishing arrived in the early 1800s. The island was used as a penal colony between 1825 and 1832, followed by a probation statiion in 1842.

Maria island was declared a national park in 1971.

Visitor information

• Maria Island National Park

Get in

By ferry

The ferry runs from Triabuna to Darlington on Maria Island daily. There are five ferries per day, costing $45 for adults and $28 for children.

• Encounter Maria Island is the new ferry operator for the island, operating a new larger vessel the Osprey V

Get around

Do

• Walking
• Cycling
• Diving
• Snorkeling
• Swimming
• Bird watching

Eat

There are no resturants or supply stores on the island as it is a national park. Food and provisions can be purchased in Triabunna or in Hobart. There Is no rubbish disposal on the island and waste must be taken off the island.

Sleep

• 1 Penitentiary. The former penitentiary has 10 bunk bed rooms. Gas stoves are provided for cooking. Booking required. $44 per room for two people. (updated Feb 2020)
• 2 Darlington Campsite. Tent camping. from $7, pay at ranger station.. (updated Feb 2020)
• 3 Encampment Cove Campsite. Remote campsite Free with a parks pass.. (updated Feb 2020)
• 4 Frenchs Farm Campsite. Free with a parks pass.. (updated Feb 2020)

Go next

• Triabunna, a scenic township on Tasmania's east coast, is a short ferry trip from Maria Island