Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona

Introduction: An Excursion That Combines Art, Food, and Fine Wine

If you’re visiting Hobart and looking for an experience that seamlessly fuses impressive art, exquisite local cuisine, and boutique wines, the Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona promises just that. While we haven’t personally undertaken this journey, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews reveal a tour packed with memorable moments. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a sophisticated, all-encompassing day out.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the combination of Mona’s provocative art with Moorilla’s boutique wines offers a unique cultural and sensory mix. Second, the long, leisurely lunch paired with flagship wines elevates the food and drink above typical tasting tours. Lastly, the luxury transport via the Posh Pit ferry adds an element of comfort and style. The one consideration? With a price of around $387 per person, this is an investment—so it suits those seeking a premium, curated experience. This tour best fits travelers who want a rich, multi-layered outing that balances art, gastronomy, and wine in one package.

Key Points

• Premium Experience: Combines art, wine, and food in a luxurious setting.
• All-Inclusive Tour: Includes museum admission, guided winery tour, tasting, and a gourmet long lunch.
• Luxury Transport: Ferry ride in the Posh Pit adds style and comfort.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable Moorilla staff enhance the experience.
• Cultural and Culinary Fusion: Perfect for those who love art and food combined.
• Good Weather Policy: Cancellations are possible if weather doesn’t cooperate, ensuring safety and comfort.

What is Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona?

This all-day excursion offers a well-rounded experience of Hobart’s vibrant art scene, renowned local wines, and exceptional Tasmanian cuisine. The tour is designed for those who want more than just a quick visit; it’s about savoring the art, the flavors, and the beautiful surroundings at a relaxed pace. It’s a curated journey into Tasmania’s creative and gastronomic scene, with an emphasis on comfort and quality.

Priced at $387.31 per person, it’s a notable investment—but one that covers almost everything, from transportation to meals. The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a full-day activity that fits neatly into most Hobart itineraries.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Meet at Brooke Street Pier and Ferry Ride in Style

The day kicks off at the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart, where you’ll board the Posh Pit ferry, a vessel that adds a touch of luxury to your journey. As you glide across the water, you’re greeted with a glass of bubbles beneath James Turrell’s striking Amarna installation. This moment sets the tone for a day of elegance and artistic inspiration.

Explore Mona: Art and Innovation

Your visit to Mona (the Museum of Old and New Art) is about three hours of immersive art exploration. Mona is renowned for its provocative, thought-provoking exhibits—yet its appeal extends beyond the art itself. The museum’s architecture and landscapes create a compelling environment that makes wandering through its galleries a feast for both the eyes and the mind.

While reviews haven’t detailed every exhibit, they highlight that Mona’s mix of contemporary art with quirky installations offers a unique experience. Visitors often mention the surprise of discovering unexpected pieces and enjoying the museum’s bold approach to art.

Guided Tour of Moorilla Winery + Barrel Room Tasting

Back at the Moorilla estate, you’re greeted by an expert Moorilla majordomo who takes you through the winemaking process, explaining the techniques behind their boutique cool climate wines. The highlight? Visiting the barrel room for tastings. This intimate setting allows you to savor wines directly from the barrels, gaining a better understanding of the craftsmanship involved.

Reviewers note the excellent wine selection, emphasizing that Moorilla specializes in boutique, cool climate varietals. The experience provides a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s emerging wine scene, often praised for its quality and distinct character.

Long, Gourmet Lunch at The Source Restaurant

The culinary centerpiece is a long, leisurely lunch at The Source Restaurant—Moorilla’s dining room dedicated to local ingredients. The menu features a chef’s selection of dishes that highlight Tasmania’s fresh produce. Guests are encouraged to sample the flagship wines from Moorilla and Domaine A, with a sommelier on hand to discuss wine pairings and food philosophy.

Reviews underscore the delicious food and tapas-style dishes, which provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This part of the tour is about savoring each bite and sip, making it ideal for foodies and wine lovers alike.

Art, Culture, and Free Time

After lunch, you’ll get a brief glimpse into Mona’s history before being granted time to explore the galleries independently. Reviewers mention that this free time in Mona’s extensive collection allows for personal discovery and reflection.

Return Journey in Style

As the day winds down, you’ll travel back to Hobart via the Posh Pit ferry, completing a full circle of artistic, gastronomic, and scenic enjoyment. The return trip offers more opportunities to relax and reflect on the experience.

The Experience: What It Means for Travelers

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about engaging with Tasmania’s creative and culinary offerings in a relaxed, luxurious setting. Guests consistently note the high-quality wines, the delicious, thoughtfully prepared food, and the beautiful setting as standout elements.

Some guests have commented that the wine tastings in the barrel room felt particularly intimate and informative, while others appreciated the guided insights from knowledgeable staff. The artful environment, combined with the luxury ferry ride, elevates the entire day, making it feel special without being overly formal.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Timing

• Departure is from Brooke Street Pier at 10:00 am.
• The ferry ride adds a scenic, relaxing element to your journey.
• The entire tour lasts approximately 7 hours, so you’ll want to set aside the full day.
• The return to Hobart is in the Posh Pit, ensuring a comfortable and stylish end to your day.

Group Size and Personalization

• This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed.
• Most travelers can partake, and the experience is designed to be accessible, although specific physical activity levels aren’t detailed.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Since the experience relies on good weather, cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with options for rescheduling or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds reassurance if weather or plans change unexpectedly.

Price and Value

While the tour costs around $387 per person, it covers not just wine tasting and meals but also the museum admission, transportation, and guided insights. Guests often find that the experience’s depth and exclusivity justify the expense, especially for those seeking a premium, all-inclusive day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art enthusiasts, foodies, and wine lovers wanting a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s culture and gastronomy. It’s perfect for travelers willing to splurge on a curated, luxurious day that combines education, relaxation, and indulgence.

Those seeking a more casual or budget-friendly tour might find it a bit on the pricier side, but the quality and exclusivity often make it worth the investment. It suits couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a special, memorable day in Hobart.

The Sum Up: Why Choose Moorilla’s Big Day Out?

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of modern art, boutique wine, and gourmet food, set against the stunning backdrop of Tasmania’s landscape. The luxury ferry, guided winery tour, and long, carefully curated lunch elevate it beyond a simple tasting experience. It’s a fantastic way to spend a leisurely day exploring Hobart’s creative spirit and culinary excellence.

If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, prefers personalized experiences, and loves learning about local wine and art, this tour fits the bill perfectly. The thoughtful combination of activities ensures you’ll leave with not just pictures but memories of a truly special day.

While it’s a premium experience, the attention to detail and the immersive nature of the day make it a compelling choice for those wanting a luxurious taste of Tasmania’s best.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a scenic ferry ride in the Posh Pit from Hobart to Mona and back, adding comfort and style to your journey.

What should I wear for this experience?
While the tour details don’t specify dress code, comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and outdoor environments is advisable. A light jacket or layers are recommended in case of weather changes.

How long does the museum visit last?
The Mona visit lasts approximately three hours, giving plenty of time to explore its galleries at your own pace.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While most travelers can participate, there’s no specific mention of age restrictions. It’s best suited for adults interested in art, wine, and gourmet meals.

What is included in the meal?
Guests enjoy a long, chef-curated lunch featuring local produce, paired with flagship wines, with a sommelier providing insights into the pairings.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are allowed up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is exclusive to your group, providing a personalized, intimate environment.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked around 35 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date.

This comprehensive adventure offers a balanced mix of art, wine, and gourmet dining, perfect for travelers eager to indulge and explore Tasmania’s creative spirit in style.