Wineglass Bay And Maria Island Wildlife Scenic Flight From Hobart

Taking to the skies around Tasmania might just be one of the best ways to appreciate its wild beauty, and this Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Scenic Flight from Hobart offers an unforgettable way to do just that. With soaring views, a touch of adventure, and close encounters with native wildlife, this tour balances thrill and relaxation perfectly. It’s a quick trip—around three hours—that packs a punch for anyone with limited time but a desire to see Tasmania’s highlights from above and below.

The things we love about this experience include the breathtaking aerial views of Freycinet National Park, the chance to spot iconic wildlife like wombats and wallabies on Maria Island, and the delicious local Tasmanian lunch paired with fine wine. The professional guides and pilots add a layer of knowledge and safety that makes the experience feel both accessible and special.

One thing to keep in mind: it’s a half-day tour so it’s not designed for a leisurely exploration but rather a rapid, immersive overview of Tasmania’s stunning coast and wildlife. If you’re after a more in-depth land experience, you might want to consider extending your time on Maria Island or other tours. Still, for those wanting a taste of everything—scenery, wildlife, and excellent food—this tour hits all the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate aerial photography, native wildlife, and authentic local cuisine. It’s particularly ideal for first-timers in Tasmania, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a memorable, compact adventure that maximizes sightseeing in a short window.

Key Points

• Stunning scenic flight over Tasmania’s east coast and Freycinet Peninsula.
• Close wildlife encounters on Maria Island, including wombats, kangaroos, and wallabies.
• Delicious Tasmanian lunch featuring local produce and wine.
• Expert commentary from knowledgeable guides and pilots.
• Convenient half-day experience suited for busy schedules.
• Additional cost for a national park pass, which is essential for entry.

An Immersive Experience in Tasmania’s Natural Wonders

This tour combines the thrill of a scenic flight with the charm of exploring remote islands and pristine beaches. Starting at the Par Avion meeting point in Cambridge, your adventure kicks off at 11:00 am with a flight that’s designed to maximize views without taking up your whole day. The flight itself lasts around three hours, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery, wildlife, and local highlights.

The Flight: A Bird’s Eye View of Tasmania’s East Coast

Flying over the Freycinet Peninsula, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Tasmania’s first national park, established in 1916, and its dramatic pink granite mountains. The highlight here is the iconic Wineglass Bay, often heralded as one of the most photogenic beaches in Australia. Reviewers describe the aerial view as “something truly spectacular,” with some noting that it’s the best way to appreciate the scale and beauty of the bay, which is often compared to a perfect, inverted wine glass.

The pilot, often praised for being highly informative, provides details about the region’s geography, history, and natural features. This commentary isn’t just technical but also engaging and tailored, with reviews mentioning “interesting tidbits” and “great commentary” that enhanced the flight experience.

Landing on Maria Island: Wildlife Encounters in the Wild

After soaring along the coast, the plane lands on Maria Island, a haven for native wildlife and untouched scenery. The island’s crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches are your backdrop for exploration. Reviewers like “surrounded by wallabies, kangaroos, and even a wombat” highlight how close you can get to these animals in their natural habitat, often just a few feet away.

The walk around Maria Island is complemented by a bountiful Tasmanian picnic lunch, carefully prepared and enjoyed while overlooking the northern end of the island. It’s a moment to savor local flavors and the tranquil environment. Many guests have mentioned that the food exceeded expectations, with some describing it as “a feast” that complemented the outdoor experience perfectly.

Wildlife and Natural History: What You Can Expect

Maria Island’s natural history is a major draw, and guides are keen to share insights. Visitors can learn about the island’s endangered species, such as the Tasmanian devil, and observe endemic parrots and wallabies. The chance to see wombats in the wild, as highlighted by reviews, makes this stop particularly memorable for wildlife lovers.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes lunch paired with Tasmanian wine, snacks, coffee, or tea, and live commentary from a professional guide. The cost of $357.90 per person is quite reasonable considering the combination of scenic flight, wildlife encounters, and a quality meal. However, note that an additional A$47.75 national park pass is required for Maria Island, which is not included in the ticket price.

The group size is capped at 22 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. The tour departs from Par Avion in Cambridge, a location accessible by public transportation, and the flight is designed for most travelers, including children (accompanied by an adult). Be sure to dress for the weather—hat, sunglasses, enclosed shoes, and a coat are recommended.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism of the pilots, with many praising guides like Michael and Jonah for their informative commentary. The views are described as “stunning,” and the wildlife sightings “surprisingly close.” Several mention that this is “one of the best tours in Australia,” emphasizing the value for money and the exhilarating experience of seeing Tasmania from above.

One reviewer from February 2024 pointed out how the scenery from the air gave a perspective that’s impossible to get on the ground, making it an essential experience for anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s coastlines and wildlife.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to see wombats, wallabies, and rare parrots in their natural habitat is a real highlight, especially with a guide sharing fascinating facts. Photographers will love the bird’s-eye vistas of Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula, capturing images that are tough to match from land.

Food lovers will appreciate the local Tasmanian produce paired with regional wine, making the experience not just scenic but also delicious. Meanwhile, those short on time will find the half-day format perfect for fitting into a broader Tasmania itinerary.

However, it’s worth noting that if you’re keen to spend more time on Maria Island exploring its landscapes and wildlife, you might find this tour somewhat limited in duration. The focus is on a swift, scenic overview rather than an in-depth land visit.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This scenic flight is ideal for first-time visitors to Tasmania who want to see the highlights from a unique perspective. Wildlife lovers will find the island stop especially rewarding, and photographers will appreciate the opportunity to capture stunning aerial shots. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate experience that combines adventure, scenery, and gourmet food.

Travelers seeking a cost-effective, compact tour that offers both spectacular views and wildlife encounters will find this experience offers exceptional value. It’s less suited for those wanting a longer, more immersive land-based exploration but perfect for a taster of Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children are allowed if accompanied by an adult. It’s a family-friendly experience, especially if your kids enjoy wildlife and scenic flights.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, including the flight, wildlife stop, and lunch. The flight itself is the core of the experience, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—hat, sunglasses, enclosed shoes, and a coat are recommended. The aircraft cabin might be cool, and outdoor walking on Maria Island requires comfortable footwear.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, an A$47.75 national park pass is required for Maria Island and is paid separately. The tour price covers most of what you need, including meals and commentary.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 22 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier wildlife sightings.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to adverse conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Scenic Flight from Hobart offers an impressive mix of scenic grandeur and wildlife encounters within a compact timeframe. With breathtaking aerial views, expert guides, and a delicious local lunch, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to see Tasmania from a new perspective without dedicating an entire day.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who love photography, wildlife, and gourmet food, and who value expert commentary to enhance their experience. While it does require an additional park fee and is a quick trip by design, the overall value and quality of the experience make it a standout choice for a memorable Tasmanian adventure.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic way to tick off multiple highlights of Tasmania in just a few hours, offering a true taste of the island’s scenic and natural treasures.