Take the morning Encounter Maria Island ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island, the island national park blessed with mountains, beaches, convict history, naturally painted cliffs and teeming wildlife. Note: the ferry runs on fewer days from May to August.

Wander the grounds of Darlington – mind the wombats – and explore the Darlington Convict Probation Station and scattered remains of the grand industrial empire envisaged by Diego Bernacchi in the late 19th century. There’s bunkhouse-style accommodation inside the old penitentiary cells.

From Darlington, it’s a 4.5km return walk to the Fossil Cliffs, where ancient ocean relics coalesce in a striking display.
Return on the ferry, grabbing fish and chips on Triabunna’s wharf. Pick up a hot cuppa on the marina, then take a stroll to see convict-era buildings on the Discovery Walk. Visit the Tasmanian Seafarers Memorial before returning to your accommodation.