Isle of the Dead
A small wooded island in Port Arthur’s harbour — the burial ground of the convict settlement, resting place of convicts, settlers and staff, reached by boat.
Isle of the Dead
Just offshore from the Port Arthur Historic Site, a small wooded island rises from the harbour. This is the Isle of the Dead — the burial ground for the convict settlement, and the resting place of convicts alongside free settlers, staff and their families. Reached by boat, it is a quiet, moving place of weathered headstones and grave sites. A harbour cruise passes it; a guided landing tour lets you step ashore and hear its story.
What to Know
Reached by Water
A short crossing from the historic site jetty into the harbour.
Convict & Free
The resting place of convicts as well as settlers, staff and families.
From the Water
The included harbour cruise passes the island and Point Puer.
A Reflective Place
A solemn cemetery — quiet, and best treated with dignity.
Visiting Tips
- A harbour cruise usually comes with general admission — the landing tour is a separate add-on
- Book the landing tour ahead — places and times are limited
- Wear sturdy shoes — the ground is uneven
- Treat the cemetery with respect and dignity
- Combine it with the historic site and, if staying, the ghost tour
Want it all arranged? Call 0409 661 342 or enquire online.
Isle of the Dead — FAQ
What is the Isle of the Dead?
It is a small island in the harbour at Port Arthur that served as the burial ground for the convict settlement. It is the resting place of convicts as well as free settlers, staff and their families from the settlement’s years, and is reached by boat.
How do you get to the Isle of the Dead?
By boat from the Port Arthur Historic Site. General admission usually includes a harbour cruise that passes the island, while a guided landing tour that steps ashore is generally a separate add-on. Check current details.
What do you see on a landing tour?
A guide walks you among the headstones and grave sites, explaining the island’s history and the lives — convict and free — connected to it. It is a quiet, reflective place best treated with respect.
Is it suitable for children?
The short boat trip and gentle walk suit families, though it is a solemn cemetery, so it helps to prepare children beforehand. See the Tasman Peninsula with kids for planning ideas.
Do you need to book?
The landing tour has limited places and set times, so book ahead where you can. It is usually separate from general admission — check current details, or enquire and we’ll help arrange it.
Port Arthur, Planned Around You
The World Heritage convict site, the wild sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, the Three Capes Track and the ghost tour — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry