Seaplane Taster

Depart Hobart's waterfront and follow Tasmania's glittering east coastline before touching down on Maria Island's grass runway — a landing that already feels like stepping back in time. This entire island is a national park and sanctuary, where wombats graze freely, cliffs plunge to turquoise seas, and echoes of convict history linger in the old stone ruins. Take a short walk to stretch your legs, then settle into a picnic of Tasmanian produce. Sometimes it's sunshine on the bays, sometimes sea mist drifting over the headlands — either way, the island's stories seem to weave themselves into every bite. Bring along a bottle of bubbles, or your favourite Tasmanian drop, if you'd like to make the moment sparkle.

Lift off from Hobart's waterfront, where fishing boats, ferries and tall ships cross paths. Trace the eastern shore south past North Bruny Island, skimming Iron Pot Lighthouse — Tasmania's oldest keeper of the channel. Sweep back along the western shore for breathtaking views of the wild slopes of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, the city, and the graceful span of the Tasman Bridge. Conclude with a seamless yet exhilarating river landing at Franklin Wharf — Tasmania from an angle few ever see.

Lift off from Hobart's waterfront and soar over Tasmania's central highlands into the island's wild southwest. Descend for a thrilling water landing on the mighty Gordon River—its tannin-dark waters threading through ancient forests, a place fought for, preserved, and fiercely protected for future generations. Take a short stroll to Sir John's Falls, where cascading waters meet moss-draped rainforest, and enjoy a picnic of locally sourced Tasmanian produce. Bring a bottle of bubbles, or your Tasmanian drop of choice, if you'd like to make the moment sparkle.

Lift off from Hobart's waterfront and head west, soaring over the jagged peaks of the Arthur Range, past the iconic spire of Federation Peak. Glide over ancient forests and sparkling waterways before descending into a secluded bay along Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour, where white quartzite sands line the shore and the tannin-stained waters swirl gently around you — a hidden corner of Tasmania's wild west. Here, enjoy your prepared gourmet picnic hamper and soak in the untouched beauty of one of Tasmania's most remote Wilderness World Heritage locations. Bring a bottle of bubbles, or your Tasmanian drop of choice, if you'd like to make the moment sparkle.

Lift off from Hobart's waterfront and follow the River Derwent south, past estuaries fringed with black gums and melaleuca, to Bruny Island. Glide over The Neck, the island's spectacular isthmus, before touching down on the still waters of Barnes Bay. Enjoy a short taxi across the bay without disembarking, surrounded by hidden coves, wind-whipped cliffs and secret beaches. From the air, take in the sentinel Iron Pot Lighthouse, the jagged Alum Cliffs and kunanyi/Mt Wellington rising above Hobart. Watch for dolphins threading through the estuary or a white-bellied sea eagle gliding overhead. Bruny Island's bays, inlets and headlands reveal themselves from an angle few ever see.

Depart Franklin Wharf and trace the coastline south-east to the dramatic Tasman Peninsula. Sweep over the towering cliffs of the Three Capes and Tasman Island — some of Australia's tallest and most awe-inspiring sea cliffs, with the Southern Ocean crashing against rugged, untamed headlands few ever see from above. Circle Port Arthur from the water, the UNESCO World Heritage convict site framed by dark forest and sea. Then lift towards Cape Raoul, its fortress-like cliffs rising from the Southern Ocean, before returning north with wide views of Hobart, the Tasman Bridge, and the wild silhouette of kunanyi/Mt Wellington.

Hobart’s oldest waterfront warehouses have been thoughtfully reimagined to become Australia’s first dedicated art hotel. With a sleek design and features more than 400 original and contemporary artworks, The Henry Jones Art Hotel is dedicated to showcasing Tasmania’s emerging and established artists in every room and space, creating a sophisticated and deeply engaging accommodation experience on Hobart’s waterfront. With 52 rooms and 4 suites each individually designed and furnished, preserving untouched heritage features and nineteenth-century sandstone walls with views of Hobart’s harbour, city, and mountains. Luxury fittings adorn every room, with comfortable king-size beds draped in exotic silk covers and ottomans. Henry Jones represents a fusion of old and new, art and design, indulgence, and discovery.

This IXL precinct is located in the Hunter Street precinct of Hobart's waterfront. and overlooking the historic sandstone Jam Factory. Located only 100m from the Hobart docks. Apartments range from spacious 1 bedroom apartments overlooking the historic precinct to 3 bedroom penthouses with waterfront views - all have full kitchens, in-room laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Onsite, undercover parking is available.

The Harbourside Apartments offer modern accommodation within the historic sandstone buildings of Hunter Street with waterfront views of Hobart's docks. The apartments boast lots of natural light and an uncluttered design. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments feature an open-plan living area and kitchen. Apartments are stair access only (a service lift is available for luggage).