Set sail on an unforgettable 2 week expedition from the historic port city of Hobart, exploring Tasmania’s wild Southwest and West Coast. This rare journey takes you into some of Australia’s most remote and spectacular landscapes, where towering sea cliffs, untouched wilderness, and hidden waterways set the stage for true adventure.
With around 70% of the voyage spent ashore, this expedition is perfect for those eager to explore beyond the deck. Kayak through pristine inlets, hike rugged coastal trails, and stand-up paddleboard in secluded bays framed by dramatic scenery. Weather dependent stops may include Bathurst Harbour, Port Davey, Strahan, and the Gordon and Franklin Rivers, each offering a unique blend of untamed nature, rich history, and remarkable wildlife.
Sailing through some of Australia’s wildest waters, you may encounter dolphins riding the bow, albatross gliding overhead, and migrating whales breaching in the distance. Ashore, discover ancient rainforests, towering sand dunes, and remote beaches, where Indigenous heritage and convict-era history are woven into the landscape.
This is a chance to immerse yourself in Tasmania’s raw, unspoiled beauty. Whether you are drawn to the thrill of offshore sailing, the stillness of a mirror calm river, or the challenge of a remote wilderness hike, this expedition offers an experience like no other.
Explore one of Australia's last true wilderness frontiers
Sail from Hobart along Tasmania’s remote southwest and west coast, where wild ocean meets ancient rainforest and dramatic cliffs tower above hidden coves and quiet inlets.
Spend up to 70% of the journey exploring ashore
This expedition is perfect for adventurous souls who want more than just sailing. You'll hike rugged trails, kayak glassy rivers, and stand-up paddleboard in mirror-still bays deep within World Heritage-listed wilderness.
Venture to iconic and rarely visited locations
Weather-dependent stops include Bathurst Harbour, Port Davey, Strahan, and the Gordon and Franklin Rivers—each offering rich stories, diverse wildlife, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Encounter Tasmania’s rich coastal and cultural heritage
From Indigenous middens and convict ruins to native wildlife and endemic flora, you'll experience a coastline where history and nature are powerfully intertwined.
Experience open-ocean and sheltered water sailing
Sail aboard Silver Fern, a comfortable and capable expedition yacht designed for wild waters and cosy nights. Navigate rugged headlands and explore tranquil inland waterways all in the same journey.
Witness incredible marine and bird life
Watch dolphins play off the bow, albatross soar in the southern sky, and whales breach on their migration route as you cruise this untouched coastline.
Hobart
Historic waterfront city and gateway to Tasmania’s wild coasts
Known for vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and a lively maritime culture
Bathurst Harbour
Remote inland harbour surrounded by the Southwest National Park
Offers calm anchorages, rich birdlife, and access to pristine wilderness trails
Port Davey
Vast, protected waterway with untouched landscapes and dramatic mountain backdrops
Perfect for kayaking, hiking, and exploring secluded inlets
Macquarie Harbour
Vast, sheltered harbour on Tasmania’s rugged west coast
Known for its dramatic entrance at Hell’s Gates, rich maritime history, and access to convict-era sites such as Sarah Island
Strahan
Charming harbour town on the edge of Macquarie Harbour
Gateway to river cruises, sand dune adventures, and local history
Gordon River
Serene wilderness river winding through ancient temperate rainforest
Known for mirror-like reflections, birdlife, and tranquil cruising
Franklin River
Untamed river famous for its wild beauty and conservation history
Surrounded by lush rainforest and rugged peaks, ideal for remote exploration
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Silver Fern, a sleek and spacious sailing yacht crafted for comfort, camaraderie, and coastal exploration. Whether you're navigating hidden bays, sharing stories over dinner on deck, or trimming sails on an offshore leg, Silver Fern offers the ideal balance of relaxation and hands-on adventure. With warm hospitality, inviting living spaces, and a spirit of discovery at its core, every journey on Silverfern feels like coming home—only at sea.
You'll fly into Hobart Airport to join the yacht. It is a 35 minute cab/Uber ride from the airport.
16 Jan 2028
Arrive at the vessel in Hobart by 3pm
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Crew welcome dinner
17 - 28 Jan 2028
Depart Hobart for first destination
Explore a variety of stop overs, while passage planning around the weather.
28 Jan 2028
Arrive in Hobart Marina by 3pm
Crew farewell dinner
29 Jan 2028
Depart Hobart Airport
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; meals and accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules.
Eligibility
You will need to complete a 5-hour online or 2-day Sea Safety and Survival Training Course or equivalent at least 1 month prior.
Accommodation
If you plan to fly in a day earlier, or stay onboard the night after we return to port, an extra night's accommodation is available onboard, prior to departure and/or after arrival as an add-on, for $100 per person, per night. This can be purchased through your We Travel account during the booking process or prior to departure.
Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.