This remote archipelago lies midway between Flinders Island and Victoria's Wilsons Promontory. No commercial transport operators provide a service but private vessels do occasionally visit. Sea kayaking is one of the best ways of appreciating the scenic attributes of the islands - particularly their sea cliffs, which are most dramatic viewed from the water. Diving is also popular.
Aboriginal occupation is believed to date back between 8,000 and 13,000 years. Matthew Flinders was the first European to discover the islands, visiting in 1798 while searching for survivors of the wrecked vessel the Sydney Cove.
The Kent Group is the largest of only five fur seal breeding sites in Tasmania. Some of the eastern Bass Strait sealer settlements were among the first Australian settlements outside Sydney Cove.
The deactivated lighthouse on Deal Island was built in 1847 and has the highest elevation (305 metres, or 100 feet) of any lighthouse in the southern hemisphere. The cooperation between the colonies of Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales that resulted in its construction has been cited by constitutional expert JM Ward as the first step towards Federation. The lighthouse superintendent's cottage is considered one of Bass Strait's most important historic buildings.
There are no established bushwalks or visitor facilities on the islands. However, if you are keen to visit, you'll find more information on the Parks and Wildlife website.
Open