WILSONS PROM CRUISES

We have done some fabulous walks on Wilsons Prom over the years, and the circuit taking in Sealers Cove, Refuge Cove, Waterloo Bay and the Lightstation has been a standout in our earlier years. Recently we went on a shorter and very accessible excursion on the 2½ hour Wilsons Prom cruise from Tidal River, taking off and landing from the beach in an amphibious boat which drives straight from the sand into the sea without the need for a jetty. It was a marvellous way to view the Prom from a completely different viewpoint.

Being at the southernmost tip of mainland Australian and seeing the iconic Lightstation from below was magic after having previously walked the long haul in. The boat comfortably cruises out to the islands beyond Norman Bay and follows the coast south, and we learnt about the history and ecology of the Prom and marine national park on the way. It feels a long way south, and just another 10 km further the islands form part of the state of Tasmania.

Coming back we drew alongside the huge colonies of Australian fur seals, lazing on the rocks in the sun, and passed the dramatic Skull Rock. We were lucky enough to see some bottlenose dolphins and would love to go again when the whales are migrating, between September to December, and May to July. Overall a very special trip to a wonderful part of Australia, so do put it on your list.

Marg July 2023

Shearwater Owner