Hobart: Moorilla’s Wine + Art at Mona by Boat

If you’re looking for a day that combines art, wine, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, this tour is an impressive option. It promises a full day of exploration, from Hobart’s bustling waterfront to the striking grounds of Mona, with plenty of opportunities to indulge in Tasmanian produce and culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to visit one of Tasmania’s oldest wineries with a fascinating history. Second, the museum of Old and New Art (Mona) offers a curated mix of avant-garde and thought-provoking artworks—perfect for those who love a bit of controversy with their culture. Third, the experience’s small-group setting (limited to four people) ensures an intimate, personalized vibe.

The only major consideration? The day is quite packed, which might be a little tight for anyone wanting a more relaxed pace. Still, for those eager to see the best of Hobart’s wine and art scene in one go, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for culture lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone craving a well-rounded, authentic taste of Tasmania.

Key Points

• Seamless transportation: Fast ferry from Hobart to Mona keeps travel quick and scenic.
• Diverse activities: Museum visits, wine tastings, and gourmet lunch provide variety.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable hosts enhance the experience with engaging insights.
• Flexible afternoon: Free time allows you to explore further or relax on the grounds.
• Limited group size: Small groups ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Value for money: Combining multiple experiences in one day offers great overall value.

An In-Depth Look at the Hobart Moorilla & Mona Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at 12 Franklin Wharf in Hobart, a convenient central location. After meeting your guide, you’ll hop onto a high-speed ferry departing from Brooke Street Pier, located just a short walk from the city center. The ferry ride takes roughly 30 minutes, offering scenic views of Hobart’s harbor and a chance to anticipate the day ahead.

Travel by boat is a real highlight. The quick, smooth ride ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to explore. Reviewers noted the ferry’s efficiency and comfort, making it a relaxing start to your day. The vessel’s design and speed offer a modern twist, setting a lively tone for the experience.

Exploring Mona: Art and Grounds

Once ashore, you’re free to wander Mona’s expansive grounds and galleries for approximately 2.5 hours. Mona is renowned for its bold, sometimes shocking artworks and innovative displays. Visitors often comment on the fascinating grounds—a mix of manicured lawns, sculptures, and architectural surprises.

The museum’s collection is so provocative that it evokes mixed reactions—some love it, some find it unsettling. One reviewer describes Mona as “a museum where there is something to love and something to hate,” capturing the essence of its eclectic displays.

Guided tours are available if you want a deeper understanding, but many prefer to explore at their own pace, soaking in the visual feast. The grounds alone are worth the trip, offering sweeping views of the Derwent River and Tasmania’s rugged landscape.

Gourmet Lunch at The Source Restaurant

Midday, it’s time to indulge at The Source Restaurant, which has long been the culinary hub of Moorilla. Expect a two-course meal showcasing locally sourced produce paired with Moorilla wines.

Guests rave about the outstanding quality of the food, describing the lunch as “interesting and entertaining,” with some noting the menu’s focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The pairing with Moorilla wines is thoughtfully curated, allowing you to savor the flavors of Tasmania in every sip. The restaurant’s setting—overlooking sprawling lawns and vineyards—adds to the relaxed, refined atmosphere.

The Moorilla Deep Dive: Wine and Behind-the-Scenes

After lunch, a small-group tour takes you behind the scenes of Moorilla Winery. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores the winery’s history, production methods, and unique aspects that make Moorilla special.

The highlight? An underground tasting room, where you’ll sample a selection of Moorilla wines. Guests have praised the comprehensive tasting experience, describing it as “fantastic” and noting the variety and quality of the wines. The guides’ insights help you appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Afternoon Free Time and Personal Exploration

Post-tasting, you’re free to spend your afternoon as you wish. Many guests opt to linger on the lawns, soaking in the scenery and listening to music, or explore the galleries further if something caught their eye earlier. Others enjoy a glass of wine at the bar, savoring the moment as the day winds down.

One reviewer mentioned how relaxing it was to “settle in with a glass of wine,” appreciating the chance to unwind after a busy morning. This flexibility is a real plus, allowing you to tailor the experience to your mood.

Return Journey to Hobart

At 5 pm, the ferry departs Mona, whisking you back to Hobart. The return trip offers one last spectacular view of the sunset over the river, rounding off a full, rewarding day.

The Experience: Practical Details

Duration: About 7 hours, including transport, museum visits, lunch, and wine tasting.

Group size: Limited to four participants, providing a more personalized experience.

Cost: The tour offers excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive day in Hobart, combining culture, scenery, and wine in one package.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, but check specific needs with the provider in advance.

What to bring: Passport or ID, driver’s license. A camera (but no professional gear), and a sense of curiosity.

Restrictions: No drones, professional cameras, smoking, vaping, flash photography, or tripods allowed. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or under-18s.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, offering flexibility if plans change.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Reviewers highlight the expert guides who make the tour engaging and informative. One guest appreciated the “amazing sub-structure that houses the artwork,” emphasizing the thought that has gone into Mona’s design. The lunch at The Source Restaurant was repeatedly praised as “outstanding,” with some noting it was a perfect pairing of food and wine.

The wine tasting was described as “fantastic,” with guests appreciating the depth of knowledge from the guides and the quality of Moorilla’s range. The grounds of Mona also drew admiration, with one reviewer calling them “fascinating” and a highlight of the day.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience suits art lovers eager to see Mona’s provocative collection without the hassle of organizing individual visits. It’s also ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to sample Tasmania’s best in a relaxed setting. The small-group nature makes it perfect for travelers who prefer intimacy and personalized attention.

If you’re after a well-organized, culturally rich day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy scenic views, superb wines, and bold artworks, this tour hits all the right notes.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour to Mona and Moorilla offers a thoughtful blend of culture, wine, and scenery that captures the spirit of Tasmania. The combination of fast ferry transport, guided insights, and flexible free time makes it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers. You’ll enjoy stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and delicious local fare, all within a manageable day trip.

It’s especially suited for those who value authentic, curated experiences over generic sightseeing. The intimate group size ensures a more personal connection to the art and wine, making this tour stand out among other Hobart excursions.

While the packed schedule may not suit travelers seeking total relaxation, for most, it delivers a memorable, diverse taste of Tasmania’s best offerings—art, wine, and scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a ferry ride from Hobart to Mona, making the journey both scenic and effortless.

How long do I spend at Mona?
You’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore Mona’s galleries and grounds, which is enough to see its main highlights without feeling rushed.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink wine?
While wine tasting is part of the experience, you’re free to enjoy the grounds or museum exhibits instead. However, the tour is designed around the wine experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol tasting and certain activity restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a camera (no tripods or professional gear), and comfortable shoes for walking around Mona.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your scheduling.

This tour combines the best of Tasmania’s art and wine scenes, presented in an accessible, engaging way. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a curious traveler, it offers a compact yet enriching experience that captures the essence of Hobart’s creative spirit.