Tasmania

There are more direct flights departing major cities today than ever before. Regular flights depart from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and fly direct to Hobart and Launceston. Direct flights are also available from Melbourne to Wynyard (Burnie), Devonport, King and Flinders Island. Shuttle buses operate out of all Tasmanian airports.

With good roads, few freeways or motorways and scenic views wherever you go, getting around Tasmania is part of the fun. Although Tasmania is a small state by Australian standards, it's actually the same size as Ireland, so don't underestimate the time it takes to get around. There are no train services in Tasmania so travellers rely on bus and coach and of course car-hire to get to and from our cities and regional centres. Coach tours offer a relaxing way of seeing the state. Specialised small escorted group touring is also available to cater for particular interests and the youth touring market.

Crossing Bass Strait to Tasmania is easy. Wind back to island time early, travelling by sea on the passenger ship, Spirit of Tasmania. Departing from Melbourne and arriving in Devonport, this has the added benefit of letting you bring your own car and make the most of Tasmania's touring potential. Load your car up with luggage, golf clubs, fishing rods, camping equipment, and bikes – your epic island road trip begins as soon as you drive off the ship. Phone: +61 3 6419 9320 (International) More info: www.spiritoftasmania.com.au

Tasmania has four distinct seasons with the warmest months being December to March. Regardless of where you travel in Tasmania you should be prepared for sudden, temporary deterioration in the weather, especially if bushwalking. Always carry additional warm clothing, including a waterproof outer layer.

Tasmania has some of the world's most stringent quarantine regulations. Please help us retain Tasmania's disease-free status by ensuring that when you visit you are not carrying or importing any restricted items. The introduction of a pest or disease into Tasmania could have a significant negative impact on our natural environment. A pest or disease finding its way into our world-renowned primary production areas could result in the need to implement expensive control measures, together with a significant loss of markets, and potential cost to primary industries and our community.