Sarah Island

Sarah Island is a small historic island in Macquarie Harbour near Strahan on Tasmania's west coast. It was the site of Tasmania's oldest convict settlement, operating from 1822 to 1833, known for harsh conditions and shipbuilding. Now part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the island preserves ruins and archaeological remains. Accessible only by boat, it is visited via guided tours that interpret its convict history and natural harbour setting.

Visitors arrive by licensed cruise or charter boat from Strahan and explore the island on a guided walking tour. The island features conserved convict ruins, archaeological remains, interpretive signage and reconstructed structures set in a forested harbour landscape. Tours explain the penal settlement, shipbuilding and daily life of convicts. There are gravel paths, a jetty and open areas to walk, with views across Macquarie Harbour and the surrounding wilderness.

Sarah Island was established in 1822 as a penal settlement in Macquarie Harbour and operated until 1833. It was Tasmania's oldest convict settlement and known for its isolation, harsh discipline and secondary punishment for re-offending convicts. Convicts built ships from Huon pine, including the brig Frederick, and the settlement included workshops, barracks and a penitentiary. The site was abandoned in 1833 when convicts were moved to Port Arthur and is now an important archaeological site.

Sarah Island is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and is listed for its convict heritage. It represents early colonial penal history and shipbuilding heritage in Tasmania and is interpreted for visitors through guided tours and conservation of its ruins and archaeological landscape.