In short
- Most day tours welcome children.
- Walking trails cover about 10 km.
- Wild wombats are almost guaranteed.
In this article
A full-day tour to Maria Island mixes boat travel with walking. Families can explore deep sea caves from the water and spot native wildlife on land. Because there are no cars on the island, children can safely explore the trails around Darlington. However, the day is long, usually 8 to 10 hours from Hobart, so planning ahead is important.
Is the boat ride too rough for kids?
The boat ride can sometimes be bumpy, especially in the Mercury Passage.
Cruises often last up to 4 hours, taking you to the Ile Des Phoques sea caves. If your child is prone to motion sickness, bring medication. The crew will help you find the most stable seats. Spring and summer usually offer calmer seas.
Are the walking trails suitable for little legs?
Yes, most trails around the main settlement are relatively flat and easy.
Tours typically include about 2 hours of guided walking. The routes to the Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs cover roughly 10 kilometers in total. This is manageable for active kids. The active hiking tour (
What wildlife will kids see?
Maria Island is known as Tasmania's Noah's Ark, so wildlife sightings are excellent.
You have a nearly 100% chance of spotting wild wombats grazing around Darlington. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and Cape Barren geese. Remember the rules: do not touch or feed any of the animals. From the boat, kids might see seals, dolphins, and migrating whales.
Are there toilets and facilities on the island?
Yes, there are basic toilets at the Darlington settlement.
There are no shops, cafes, or rubbish bins on Maria Island. You must carry all your own food, extra snacks, and a reusable water bottle. You also have to take all your rubbish back with you. Make sure you pack everything your family needs for the day in a sturdy day pack.
| Facility | Available on Maria Island? |
|---|---|
| Toilets | Yes (at Darlington) |
| Cafes/Shops | No |
| Drinking water | Limited (bring your own) |
| Rubbish bins | No (carry-in, carry-out) |
What should children wear?
Dress kids in layers, including a waterproof windbreaker.
Tasmanian weather changes rapidly. Start with comfortable walking shoes or boots. Bring a warm jacket, sun hat, and high SPF sunscreen. If you plan to swim at Hopground Beach, pack swimwear and a quick-dry towel. Packing Guide
How long is the day with kids?
Full-day tours from Hobart take between 8 and 10 hours.
The shuttle bus transfer from central Hobart to the Triabunna marina takes about 75 to 90 minutes each way. Once at Triabunna, the cruise lasts up to 4 hours, followed by the island walk. It is a long day for young children, but the varied activities keep them engaged.
Questions travellers ask
Can we take a pram on the tour?
Check with your specific tour operator, but the walking trails are mostly unpaved tracks. A baby carrier is usually a better option for infants.
Are meals included for kids?
Standard tour tickets include lunch for older children and adults. Meals are usually not included for infants, so bring extra food.
Can we buy snacks on the island?
No. There are no shops on Maria Island. You must pack all snacks and drinks your family will need before boarding the boat.
