The Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram, a beloved South Australian icon, has been delighting visitors since 1894. This majestic tramway, one of the few remaining horse-drawn tram routes in the world, connects the coastal town of Victor Harbor to Granite Island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.
The tram's history dates back to 1864, when the South Australian Railways reached Victor Harbor. A pier was built, and later extended to Granite Island, creating the 630-meter causeway that the tram now traverses. Initially used for goods transport, the tram began carrying passengers in 1894, with Clydesdale horses pulling double-decker carriages ¹ ².
After ceasing operations in 1955, the tram was revived in 1986 as part of South Australia's 150th jubilee celebrations. Four replica tram cars were built, and the service recommenced, offering tourists a unique experience. Today, up to three trams operate daily, pulled by 14 magnificent Clydesdale horses ³ ².
The tram's future looked uncertain in 2019 when a pylon broke off the causeway, but repairs were made, and operations resumed. The Victor Harbor Horse Tram Authority was established in 2018 to oversee the tram's operations and ensure its sustainability. In 2025, the local council injected $650k to continue operating after experiencing financial difficulties.
