Maria Island at a glance
Maria Island is a national park reached by boat. The passenger ferry runs from Triabunna to Darlington and takes about 45 minutes, so you need to get to Triabunna first. Visitors cannot bring cars, so you explore on foot or by bicycle.
There are no shops or cafés on the island, so you carry in what you need. Plan this trip as a full day or an overnight stay, not as a quick stop.
Ferry fares in 2026
Two return tickets are on sale. They are not interchangeable.
| Passenger | Same Day Return | Overnight Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | A$59 | A$70 |
| Concession (Australian pension or health card) | A$47.50 | A$59.50 |
| Australian secondary student | A$36.50 | A$47.50 |
| Child, 4 to 16 years | A$36.50 | A$43 |
| Child, 0 to 3 years | Free | Free |
The Same Day Return is not a flexible ticket you can use for a stay of several days. If you plan to sleep on the island, buy the Overnight Return. The Same Day Return includes one small piece of hand luggage up to 7 kg. Extra luggage is not automatically included.
Maria Island and east coast day trips
Guided trips and transfers from Hobart that include Maria Island or the east coast, with live prices and availability.
Getting there from Hobart
The ferry leaves from Triabunna, not from Hobart's Brooke Street Pier, which is where the MONA ferry starts. Do not mix the two up. The ferry operator also lists a separate shuttle that starts at Brooke Street. The ferry is not included in that shuttle, so you need to buy both.
If you drive to Triabunna yourself, check the ferry reservation and the check-in time before you leave. Allow plenty of time, because a missed boat means a missed day.
Parks Pass and works at Darlington
Two things to check before you go.
Parks Pass
You need a Parks Pass in addition to the ferry fare. You can buy it online together with the ferry ticket, or at check-in at the gateway. In 2026 a Daily Person pass costs A$24.55, and children under 5 are free. The Mount Field page has the full fee table.
Building works
Infrastructure works have been under way in Darlington since December 2025 and are expected to last until November 2026. Expect noise, dust and machinery. Showers at Darlington are out of order because of sewage works.
Reservation
The current works notice says a ferry reservation is essential. More general information says it is recommended. Book ahead either way.
What to bring
There are no shops or cafés, so everything you eat and drink comes with you.
- Food for the whole day, plus a little extra.
- A full water bottle of your own. Treat any water you collect on the island and boil it for at least 1 minute before you drink.
- Weather protection and sturdy shoes for walking.
- A small bag that fits the 7 kg hand luggage limit on a Same Day Return.
Summer in Tasmania runs from December to February. Whatever the season, check the forecast before you cross, because coastal weather can change.
Wombats and other wildlife
Visitors often come to Maria Island to see wombats. The park authority asks everyone to stay at least 2 m away from wild animals and not to feed them. Do not touch a wombat for a selfie. If an animal comes to you, step back instead.
The same rule applies on every Tasmanian walk. If you want closer contact, visit a sanctuary, as described on the Bonorong page. For general rules about driving at dusk and dawn, see the notes there too.
Walks on the island
Plan routes before you leave Darlington.
Walking and cycling
The island has walking and cycling routes, and cars are not allowed. Decide how far you want to go and keep time for the return ferry.
Tides and coastal tracks
Check tide times and the current track status before you plan a coastal walk, for example to the Painted Cliffs. Do not assume that a loop works at every time of day.
Time for the ferry
Know the time of the last boat back and set a turn-around time for yourself well before it.
More to plan
Other pages for your trip.
Maria Island from Hobart: frequently asked questions
How do I get to Maria Island from Hobart?
You travel to Triabunna and take the passenger ferry to Darlington, which takes about 45 minutes. The ferry operator also lists a separate shuttle from Brooke Street, which does not include the ferry.
How much is the ferry in 2026?
An adult Same Day Return costs A$59 and an adult Overnight Return costs A$70. Children aged 4 to 16 pay A$36.50 on a Same Day Return, and children aged 0 to 3 travel free.
Do I need a Parks Pass?
Yes, as well as the ferry ticket. You can buy it online with the ferry or at check-in at the gateway.
Can I buy food on the island?
No. There are no shops or cafés, so bring your own food and a full water bottle.
Are the showers working at Darlington?
No. They are out of order because of sewage works, and building works are expected to last until November 2026.
Can I take a selfie with a wombat?
Do not touch wildlife. Keep at least 2 m away and do not feed the animals.