Devonport Sheffield Burnie Shore Excursion Sightseeing Review
If you’re cruising through Tasmania and looking for a way to make the most of your limited time ashore, the Devonport Sheffield Burnie Shore Excursion offers a thoughtfully curated experience. This 4 to 6-hour tour is tailored specifically for cruise passengers, giving you a taste of Tasmania’s charming towns, cultural sites, and scenic landscapes—all without feeling rushed.
What immediately caught our attention were the variety of stops, from historical museums to vibrant murals, and the promise of picturesque coastal vistas. We also appreciated the flexible itinerary that allows you to choose destinations based on your interests. However, a quick consideration is that this tour doesn’t include lunch, so planning for food is something you’ll want to think about in advance.
This experience is perfect for travelers who love a mix of culture, small-town charm, and scenic views—especially if you’re keen on learning from knowledgeable guides and exploring at a relaxed pace.
Key Points
- Flexible Itinerary: Choose destinations that align with your interests.
- Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Museums, murals, and panoramic views.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 travelers for a more intimate tour.
- Affordable & Convenient: Price around $150, with pickup and mobile tickets included.
- Authentic Local Flavor: Discover towns with genuine charm and history.
- Good for Moderate Fitness: Walks involved, but manageable for most.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Devonport: The Gateway to Tasmania
Our journey begins in Devonport, a coastal town where the waterfront offers a laid-back yet historically rich introduction to Tasmania. You’ll get to explore notable sites like the Bluff Lighthouse, which marks the entrance to the port, and the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, a treasure trove of displays about early explorers, shipwrecks, and steamships that played vital roles in the region’s maritime history.
One of the highlights here is Home Hill, the former residence of Prime Minister Joseph Lyons, which has been turned into a museum. Visiting this site provides insight into Tasmania’s political past and a glimpse into the lifestyle of a prominent Australian family in the early 20th century.
Adding a bit of fun, the Don River Railway Museum offers short train rides, which might be a hit if you’re traveling with kids or a nostalgic adult. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, with one traveler noting, “The guide was fantastic, sharing stories I wouldn’t have heard otherwise,” making this first stop both educational and engaging.
Looking for more options in Tasmania? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Sheffield: The Mural Town
Next, we head to Sheffield, often called the “Mural Town”. This small town is celebrated for its vibrant outdoor murals—over 60, and counting—painted by talented artists during the annual Mural Fest in November. The murals turn this quiet town into a colorful open-air gallery, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and conversation starters.
Beyond the murals, Sheffield’s rural charm shines through. Visitors often comment on the warm hospitality and the chance to wander through quaint streets lined with local shops and cafes. The Sheffield Visitor Information Centre serves as a perfect starting point to get a sense of the town’s personality and plan your short visit.
For art lovers and those craving a taste of local culture, this stop is a highlight, especially when you’re able to see the murals in progress or hear from local guides about the stories behind the paintings. Note that admission is not included, but the experience of wandering around this open-air art gallery is free and rewarding.
Penguin: The Feathered Town
A short drive along the Old Bass Highway takes us to Penguin, renowned for its adorable penguin rookery. The town’s name isn’t just a cute coincidence—here, you can spot a “giant penguin” sculpture perfect for photos and see penguin-themed street signage and bins, which add a whimsical touch.
This stop provides a chance to appreciate Tasmania’s native wildlife, even if just from a distance. The town’s pride in its feathered residents is evident, and many visitors enjoy the quirky penguin decor. The route along the coast offers beautiful ocean views, making this a scenic addition to the day.
Upper Burnie Lookout: Breathtaking Panoramas
For a quick yet stunning vista, the Upper Burnie Lookout is a must-see. It offers sweeping views of the coast, from the port area to nearby Round Hill. Only about 10 minutes are spent here, but the scenery is well worth it—perfect for snapping photos or just taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air.
Burnie Regional Museum: Stepping Back in Time
The final stop is the Burnie Regional Museum, where history comes alive through exhibits of early life and local industry. The museum’s rooms are filled with artifacts, tools, and personal treasures that vividly depict what life was like over a century ago.
Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who bring stories of Burnie’s development, early explorers, and the town’s economic rise in the early 20th century. The museum offers a charming glimpse into the past, with some noting that the early Burnie exhibit is particularly insightful. It’s a wonderful way to wrap up the day, blending history with a relaxed stroll through a quaint street.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Value for Money: At approximately $150, the tour provides a well-rounded experience, combining cultural, historical, and scenic sites. The inclusion of pickup and mobile tickets adds convenience, especially for cruise travelers with tight schedules.
Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, which elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing tour to an informative journey. They often share hidden stories and local insights, making the stops more meaningful.
Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect a more personalized experience—less rushing, more engaging conversations, and the chance to ask questions and get tailored recommendations.
Authentic Local Experience: Visiting towns like Sheffield and Penguin provides a glimpse into Tasmania’s local life, away from tourist-heavy spots. The murals and community-driven sites showcase the town’s character and creativity.
Flexibility: The ability to select destinations according to personal interests makes this tour adaptable. Whether you’re into history, art, or scenic views, you can tailor your short time ashore.
Practical Considerations & Tips
Duration and Pacing: The tour lasts about 4 to 6 hours, which is perfect for a cruise day. The stops are well-paced, with most lasting around an hour, except for Devonport and Burnie, which are slightly longer.
Transport & Group Size: The small group size ensures comfort and a more intimate experience. The transportation is likely a comfortable vehicle, suitable for the distances between stops, which are relatively short.
Cost & Value: While $150 might seem a bit steep, it covers multiple stops, guided commentary, and convenience. It’s especially valuable if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing separate visits.
Physical Activity: Moderate walking is involved, mostly at the stops. The tour is suitable for travelers with average fitness levels, but those with mobility issues should consider this.
Weather & Cancellation: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This excursion suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, art, and scenic views, and prefer a relaxed pace with small-group intimacy. It’s ideal for cruise passengers keen on authentic local culture without the hassle of extensive planning. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and are interested in Tasmania’s charming towns, this trip offers genuine value.
However, those with limited mobility or expecting a more active exploration might find the stops a bit light. Also, if your main goal is a full-day adventure, this might feel a little short, but for a well-rounded taste of the region, it hits the mark perfectly.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at several stops, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness. For those with mobility concerns, it’s advisable to check specific accessibility details.
Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or arrange your own meal during the day.
How long does each stop last?
Most stops are around 1 hour, with Devonport and Burnie being slightly longer, providing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, which makes it very convenient for cruise travelers, saving you the hassle of finding transportation to and from the port.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it flexible for last-minute changes or weather issues.
What’s the ideal group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.
To sum it up, this shore excursion offers a well-balanced mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty, all within a manageable timeframe. It’s especially valuable for those seeking a personalized, informative outing with authentic Tasmanian flavor. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or just eager to see Tasmania’s charming towns, this tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to make your short port call truly memorable.