Kangaroo Island Shore Excursion Tasting Tour – For Cruise Ship Passengers Only

Kangaroo Island Shore Excursion Tasting Tour – For Cruise Ship Passengers Only

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (based on 73 reviews)
Location: Kangaroo Island, Australia
Price: $155.26 per person
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Recommended by: 90% of travelers
Book in advance: On average, booked 110 days ahead

Introduction

If you’re cruising into Penneshaw and looking for a way to truly connect with Kangaroo Island’s local flavors and scenery, this full-day tasting tour might be just what you need. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what travelers say, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to explore the island’s foodie gems without missing the highlights.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers a diverse mix of tastings—from honey and eucalyptus products to wine and gin—that give you a real taste of local craftsmanship. Second, the knowledgeable guides seem to make the experience engaging and informative, enhancing every stop. Third, the balance between structured activities and free time means you get to explore at your own pace.

One possible drawback? The tour’s price point might seem high compared to more casual options, but considering the quality and variety of tastings, many see it as good value—especially given the convenience of pickup from Penneshaw.

This experience suits travelers eager to enjoy local food and drinks, those who appreciate scenic drives, and cruise guests wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed taste of Kangaroo Island’s best offerings.

Key Points

• All-in-One Food and Wine Experience: Combines tastings at farms, distilleries, and a winery, plus local produce.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides like Kaitlyn and Lutz enhance the day.
• Variety of Tastings: Honey, eucalyptus products, lavender scones, wine, gin, and cider.
• Flexible Free Time: An hour in Kingscote offers a chance to explore or relax.
• Convenient Pickup: Pickups offered from Penneshaw make logistics smooth.
• Authentic Local Stops: Visit farms, distilleries, and a lavender farm, providing an insight into KI’s artisan scene.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Clifford’s Honey Farm
The day kicks off with a sweet introduction at Clifford’s Honey Farm. You’ll get to sample different honey varieties and learn about the Ligurian Bees, which are renowned for their high-quality honey. The gift shop offers local honey and bee-related products, making for great souvenirs. Reviewers note that the honey tasting is a highlight, with one describing it as “a delicious way to start the day.” The admission fee is included, so you can wander around freely.

Stop 2: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus
Next, the tour heads to the historic Eucalyptus distillery. Here, you’ll see how eucalyptus oil is extracted and learn about its traditional uses. Tasting eucalyptus drops and cider adds a refreshing twist—reviewers like Ellen appreciated the opportunity to learn about the distillation process and enjoyed trying the ciders. The shop also offers a variety of eucalyptus products, perfect for those interested in natural remedies or souvenirs.

Stop 3: Emu Bay Lavender
Mid-morning, you arrive at the picturesque Lavender Farm. You’ll indulge in a Lavender Scone with tea or coffee, which many guests describe as a delightful treat. The grounds and gift shop provide ample space to wander, take photos, or pick up lavender products. Reviewers have mentioned that this stop’s combination of food, scenery, and shopping creates a relaxing and fragrant interlude.

Stop 4: Kingscote
After the sensory overload of flavors and sights, you get an hour of free time in Kingscote. Here, you can explore local cafes, browse shops, or simply unwind. Several reviews highlight that this flexible period allows guests to tailor the experience—whether grabbing a quick snack or soaking in the coastal views.

Stop 5: Bay of Shoals Winery
Next, you visit the Bay of Shoals Winery, perched overlooking the bay. Tastings here focus mainly on white wines, with some reviewers noting that enhanced port options are available. The winery’s scenic location makes it a perfect spot to relax and savor a glass while soaking in views of the bay. Many guests appreciate the quality of the wines and the friendly atmosphere.

Stop 6: Kangaroo Island Spirits
Your final tasting stop is at the Kangaroo Island Spirits distillery, where you’ll sample a variety of gins, vodkas, and liqueurs. This rustic setting receives praise for its informative tastings and relaxed vibe. Reviewers like Vikki mention that the gin tasting was a particular highlight, with plenty of insight shared by the guides. The distillery’s products make excellent souvenirs or gifts.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Local Experiences
This isn’t just a drive-by tour; it’s a curated dive into Kangaroo Island’s artisan scene. You’ll meet passionate producers, see how their products are made, and taste fresh, local goods. The guide’s knowledge adds depth, often sharing interesting stories about the island’s history and industries, enriching the tasting sessions.

Scenic Drives and Good Views
The stops are strategically chosen for their scenic value—whether it’s the vineyard overlooking the bay or the lavender farm amidst rolling fields. The drive itself takes you through KI’s diverse landscapes, from coastlines to farmland, giving you plenty to look at along the way.

Variety and Balance
Guests consistently praise the diversity of tastings—honey, lavender scones, cider, wine, gin, eucalyptus oils. The stops are spaced out well, with enough time to explore, taste, and relax, avoiding the fatigue that can come from overly packed tours.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff
Reviews repeatedly highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise—especially Kaitlyn and Lutz—who make the experience lively and informative. Their stories and insights turn what could be a simple tasting into a richer, more engaging journey.

Good Value for Money
While $155.26 might seem a bit steep at first glance, many consider it a worthwhile investment given the variety, quality of tastings, and the inclusion of several entry fees. The tour offers a rundown of KI’s foodie scene, making it highly convenient for cruise passengers who want a full day without worrying about logistics.

Practical Details & Tips

Transportation & Group Size
The tour uses a comfortable SUV, accommodating up to 20 passengers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and socializing. Many reviews mention that the small group size allows for a personalized experience.

Timing & Flexibility
Starting promptly at 9:00 am from Penneshaw, the tour is designed to ensure you return in plenty of time before the ship departs. The flexible free hour in Kingscote lets you customize your experience.

Booking & Cancellation
Most travelers book their spot about 3 to 4 months in advance, reflecting high demand. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, which provides some peace of mind.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for wandering around farms and shops, a hat and sunscreen for sunny days, and some cash or cards for additional purchases—though many stops have card facilities.

Final Thoughts

This Kangaroo Island tasting tour delivers a genuine, fun, and flavorful slice of KI’s local produce scene. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want to maximize their shore time without sacrificing quality or variety. The blend of scenic drives, engaging guides, and delicious tastings makes it an experience worth considering.

If you’re a foodie, a lover of natural products, or just eager to see the best of Kangaroo Island in one day, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guides make it feel personalized and relaxed, yet packed with sights and tastes.

On the flip side, if you prefer more free exploration or are on a tighter budget, you might want to look for alternative options. But for those craving a delicious, scenic, and educational experience, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup available from the cruise ship?
Pickup is offered from Penneshaw, making it easy to start the tour without logistical worries.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and designed to give you ample time to return to your ship.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at Clifford’s Honey Farm, Emu Ridge, Lavender Farm, Bay of Shoals Winery, and Kangaroo Island Spirits are all included.

Can I buy additional products during the tour?
Absolutely. Many stops have gift shops where you can purchase honey, lavender products, wine, gin, and other local goodies.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but note that the minimum drinking age is 18. The focus on tastings makes it more appropriate for adults.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the tour, especially the tenders to the island. Travel insurance is highly recommended since refunds are not provided if the captain cancels due to weather.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to buy food and drinks during the free time in Kingscote.

How many people typically join?
The tour limits group size to 20, ensuring a comfortable, personalized experience.

In summary, this Kangaroo Island shore excursion offers a delightful blend of local tastes, scenic views, and expert guides—all within a manageable day. It’s a fantastic way to taste what the island has to offer, especially if you’re short on time but want a meaningful experience.