A new immersive winter tourism experience combining stargazing, marine life and local cuisine has launched in Hobart, offering people a unique perspective of Tasmania’s waterways after dark.
The Sea to Sky Night Cruise, described as a Tasmanian first, takes guests along the River Derwent under night skies to witness nocturnal ocean life while enjoying local produce.
Destination Southern Tasmania’s Alex Heroys said the experience would transform how people connect with local waters.
“Departing from Hobart and travelling the River Derwent under the night skies, the Sea to Sky Cruise invites guests to witness local ocean life at night, feed local fish and listen to stories,” he said.
The night-time voyage is the creation of Tasmanian Wild Seafood Adventures, featuring storytelling from company founder Shane Wilson, a veteran local fisherman.
Wilson said Tasmania’s winter offers the ideal conditions for the experience.
“It’s quiet, calm and clear. The fish are different, the stories come alive and the peace you’ll experience is unmatchable in my opinion,” he said.
The experience features opportunities to see unique nocturnal fish, learn about constellations visible from Tasmania and enjoy local specialties including warm cider and scallop pies.
Some lucky participants may even witness rare natural phenomena such as bioluminescence or the Aurora Australis.
Tourism Tasmania CEO Sarah Clark said the cruise aligns perfectly with growing interest in dark sky tourism.
“Tasmania is seeing an increase in visitors who are seeking to experience natural phenomenon at nighttime,” Clark said.
“Our clear skies and long winter nights make Tasmania the ideal place for stargazing, seeing bioluminescence and nocturnal wildlife, and if you’re lucky, the Aurora Australis.”
Tourism Industry Council Tasmania CEO Amy Hills said these type of distinctive offerings are driving Tasmania’s tourism.
“It’s new products and experiences like this that align with Tasmania’s brand and help keep us on the map when it comes to unique experiences,” Hills said.
The Sea to Sky Night Cruise is available for booking now, with limited weekly spots departing from Hobart.
