Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona – Wine Tasting and Lunch

Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona – Wine Tasting and Lunch: A Deep Dive into Tasmania’s Artistic and Culinary Scene

When it comes to combining wine, art, and exceptional cuisine in Tasmania, Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona definitely catches the eye. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews make it clear that this is an experience built for curious travelers looking to indulge in Tasmania’s best offerings with style and ease.

What truly stands out about this tour are the luxurious ferry transfer with access to one of Australia’s largest private museums, the interactive wine tastings guided by experts, and a long, chef-curated lunch paired with flagship wines. Plus, the chance to explore Mona’s art-filled galleries at your own pace adds a cultural dimension that many visitors cherish.

However, one thing to note is the tour’s duration—seven hours means it’s quite full-on, so pacing yourself is key. This experience is ideally suited for those who love a mix of art, wine, and gourmet dining, and don’t mind a structured, upscale day out. If you’re seeking a relaxed, informal day, this might feel a bit tightly scheduled, but for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Mona and Moorilla, it’s a winner.

Key Points

• Luxury transport: The ferry ride from Hobart features a private lounge with complimentary drinks and canapés, setting a refined tone.
• Expert-led tastings: Knowledgeable guides lead you through wine process and tasting notes, making it perfect for enthusiasts.
• Gourmet lunch: A carefully curated chefs menu at The Source, paired with flagship wines, offers a memorable culinary experience.
• Cultural immersion: Access to Mona’s vast private museum with thought-provoking art and exhibitions.
• Flexible group size: The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Value-packed: Combining transport, guided tastings, a long lunch, museum access, and a take-home gift offers good value for a full-day luxury experience.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at 12 Franklin Wharf in Hobart, a convenient and scenic spot right in the city center. Guests board the ferry from Brooke Street Pier, where the luxury ‘Posh Pit’ lounge features plush seating, complimentary drinks, and canapés, setting a refined mood for the journey ahead. The 30-minute ferry ride offers views of Hobart and the Derwent River, with a chance to relax before arriving at Mona. Travelers often mention the comfort and style of this part of the day—it’s a lovely way to transition from city life into a cultural and culinary escape.

Mona’s Art and Museum Experience

Once at Mona, the day begins with a guided tour of one of Australia’s largest private museums, which hosts a collection designed to challenge perceptions and stimulate conversation. Reviewer insights reveal that the museum’s exhibits are thought-provoking, and visitors appreciate having an expert guide to help interpret the art and history. One guest specifically noted that the museum’s galleries are “full of interesting pieces,” though they also mentioned that “you might find it hard to do justice to everything in just a few hours.” This suggests that museum fans should be prepared for a quick but impactful visit.

Wine Tasting with a Moorilla Expert

Next, you’ll move into the winery for a 30-minute guided wine tasting led by a knowledgeable Moorilla majordomo. Guests enjoy learning about the winery’s process, from grape to glass, and the nuances that define Moorilla’s wines. The guide’s expertise is a highlight—many travelers comment on how they appreciated the informative nature of the tasting, which felt relaxed yet insightful. Expect to sample flagship wines, which pair beautifully with the next indulgence: lunch.

An Unforgettable Chef’s Menu Lunch

The long, sumptuous lunch at The Source Restaurant is a highlight. Spanning about three hours, it features a chef’s tasting menu that emphasizes local produce and thoughtful presentation. The pairing of wines from Moorilla and Domaine A elevates each dish, with a sommelier on hand to explain the pairing’s intricacies. Reviewers frequently mention the “fantastic food and wine pairings,” and one described the meal as a “surprise” in the best way, with dishes exceeding expectations in flavor and creativity.

Exploring Mona’s Art After Lunch

Post-lunch, you’re free to explore Mona’s galleries at your leisure for around two hours. This part of the experience offers flexibility—some spend time revisiting favorite pieces or discovering new ones, while others take a moment to soak in the museum’s atmosphere. The overall design of Mona makes wandering through the exhibits a contemplative, even fun, experience. Guests have appreciated the chance to enjoy Mona at their own pace, even if some wish they had more time to explore thoroughly.

Return Journey and Final Touches

The day wraps up with a 30-minute ferry ride back to Hobart, again in the Posh Pit lounge, with complimentary drinks and canapés. The return trip offers a relaxed ending to a busy day, with many guests commenting on how smoothly everything ran and how the experience felt both luxurious and authentic. Back at Franklin Wharf, you’ll leave with a take-home gift, a small memento to remember the day.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is carefully curated to balance guided activities with free time, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate both structure and flexibility. The seven-hour duration includes transport, museum time, tastings, and a lengthy lunch — a good value considering the inclusions. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, which elevates the experience from a generic tour to a tailored visit.

Pricing-wise, while the experience leans toward the premium side, the combination of ferry transportation, wine tastings, a chef’s lunch, museum access, and a souvenir makes it a compelling option for those seeking a comprehensive day in Tasmania’s arts and food scene. It’s particularly suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a curated, luxurious introduction to Mona and Moorilla.

Why It’s Worth It

• The guided wine experience offers a knowledgeable lens into Tasmania’s burgeoning wine scene.
• The lunch showcases local ingredients with expert wine pairings, offering both flavor and education.
• The art and museum visits provide a cultural counterpoint to the wine and food, enriching your understanding of Tasmania’s creative landscape.
• The luxury transport and private setting create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or those looking to indulge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a combination of art, wine, and gourmet dining, and prefer a well-organized, upscale day out. It’s ideal for those wanting to learn from experts and enjoy a stress-free, luxurious experience without the hassle of planning each element independently. If you’re curious about Tasmanian wines, passionate about art, or simply looking for a memorable day in Hobart, this tour offers a compelling package.

However, if you’re traveling with young children, pregnant, or prefer more flexible, less scheduled adventures, this might not be the best fit. The emphasis on a lengthy sit-down lunch and guided tours means it’s more tailored to adult interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility considerations to participate.

What do I need to bring?
You should carry your passport or ID card and driver’s license for identification purposes.

Are there any restrictions on photography?
Yes, professional cameras, flash photography, tripods, and drones are not allowed indoors, and smoking or vaping are prohibited to preserve the environment and artworks.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults; children under 18 are not permitted.

Are pregnant women able to join?
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, likely due to alcohol tastings and the nature of the activities.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is guided in English.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, from 12 noon to around 7 pm, depending on your start time.

Is the tour private or group-based?
The experience is a private group, ensuring a more personalized encounter.

What kind of wines are sampled?
Guests sample flagship wines from Moorilla, and the guide provides insights into the wine-making process, emphasizing local varietals.

Final Thoughts

Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona offers a well-rounded blend of Tasmania’s art, wine, and culinary excellence. It’s an experience crafted for those who want to combine cultural enrichment with gourmet indulgence in a refined setting. The knowledgeable guides, scenic ferry rides, and long, expertly curated lunch make it a memorable day — perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to treat themselves.

For travelers eager to explore Mona beyond just a quick visit, this tour provides a structured yet flexible way to experience the best of what the museum, winery, and Hobart have to offer. It’s a polished, immersive day that balances learning, tasting, and sightseeing, all wrapped in a luxurious package.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a meaningful introduction to Tasmania’s vibrant arts and wine scene, this experience is a thoughtful choice. Just be prepared for a full day of indulgence that leaves you with lasting memories—and a take-home gift to mark the day.