Overview:

Cockatoo Island wasn’t always an idyllic getaway. This lively, all-ages tour will introduce you to a line-up of brave, foolhardy and desperate convicts who dared to escape notorious Cockatoo island’s penal establishment (1839-69), including fabled bushranger Captain Thunderbolt. As you explore the island, you’ll hear about successful and ill-fated escape attempts involving disguises, sewers, shark-infested waters, stolen boats and a volley of bullets.

Cost: $25 adults & $15 child 

Hours & times: Tours run on Saturday, weekly during the School Holidays and fortnightly there after 

Meeting point: The tour starting location is outside the Visitors Centre

Planning your trip: Access to Cockatoo Island is by ferry. Please visit transportnsw.info for ferry timetables.

COVID Safety:

Please note, all tour participants will be required to check-in with the guide on arrival to comply with COVID-19 contact tracing requirements. Members of each group must ensure they:

• maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres from others;
• have not travelled overseas within the last 14 days;
• have not had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case within the last 14 days; and
• are not unwell and have not had any COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.

Terms & Conditions:

• The tour is 60 minutes in duration and involves a steep incline, some uneven surfaces and is not suitable for mobility scooters.
• A moderate level of fitness and mobility are required on this tour. 
• Please wear suitable and sensible walking shoes. The Harbour Trust advises that high heels, thongs and loose sandals are not recommended to wear during tours
• Tours will proceed regardless of weather conditions except in cases of extreme weather. Please being wet weather gear if required. 
• Participants will be notified via SMS if the tour is cancelled and a full refund of the ticket price (less booking fees) will be made.
• Tours are family friendly, however children must be accompanied by an adult.
• You must comply with all directions of the Guides, Rangers and Security.
• For safety reasons, maximum tour numbers cannot be exceeded.
• Dogs, bicycles and smoking are not allowed on the tour.
• Tickets are non-refundable, transfers can be made up to seven (7) days prior to the tour date.
• The Harbour Trust reserves the right to terminate any tour at any time.