The Bonnet Island Experience provides you with a sensitive and immersive guided tour to a remote little penguin colony on a small island on Tasmania’s west coast. Cruising from Strahan in the evening aboard MV Sophia, this is a boutique tour on which you’ll enjoy historical and natural interpretation, quality Tasmanian food and wine and close but respectful access to witness Little Penguins returning from their day at sea. It weaves scenery, wildlife and local yarns into one beautiful experience, enjoyed with a small group to the backdrop of sunset over the Southern Ocean.
Meet your local guide in Strahan then set out by fast boat to Bonnet Island. Hear informative commentary as you glide over the ocean to the small island where the world’s smallest penguin species nest in a thriving colony. You'll get the rare opportunity to set foot on Bonnet Island to see the Little Penguins.
Once your boat reaches the island, follow your guide on land in search of little penguins. Learn about the birds and their habitat while carefully walking about the rocky terrain of the island. Your guide provides special lights that do not disturb the birds. If you're lucky, you get to see the little penguins returning to their nests after a day of hunting for food to feed their young.
As well as exploring Bonnet Island, enjoy sunset drinks and nibbles with the Southern Ocean as your backdrop. Look out at the Bonnet Island lighthouse and listen to stories about its keepers and their families. Imagine living in this remote area, trying to prevent shipwrecks in stormy conditions.
Hop aboard your boat to return to Strahan. Your tour ends when you return to Strahan.
Please note: Wear warm clothing and sturdy closed-toe walking shoes. A fleece jacket, warm hat, gloves and waterproof jacket are recommended.
