Introduction
If you’re after a day that balances wine, cuisine, and art all in one place, Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona offers a curated experience that’s hard to beat. This tour is perfect for those wanting to indulge their senses while exploring Tasmania’s rich offerings in style.
What makes it stand out? First, the visit takes you to one of Tasmania’s oldest wineries, where history and craftsmanship blend seamlessly. Second, the chef’s menu lunch at The Source pairs local produce with flagship wines, elevating the culinary experience. Third, access to Mona’s vast private museum promises thought-provoking art and fascinating history.
One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is quite full-on, with a packed itinerary that leaves little downtime. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of luxury, culture, and good wine, and who enjoy a full, curated day without rushing.
Key Points
- Luxury transportation in the Posh Pit ferry lounge offers a comfortable start to your day.
- Guided winery tour with tastings in Moorilla’s historic barrel room provides insight into Tasmania’s wine-making.
- Gourmet chefs menu lunch at The Source with wine pairings enhances your culinary experience.
- Access to Mona’s galleries allows for a deep dive into cutting-edge and historical art pieces.
- The tour includes a return ferry with complimentary drinks and canapés, wrapping up the day in style.
- A take-home gift provides a memorable souvenir of your day.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Meeting Point and Departure
Your day begins at the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart, where you’ll board the ferry at 10:15 am in a private lounge known as the Posh Pit. This lounge is no ordinary boat ride—think plush seats, complimentary drinks, and a view that sets the tone for a luxurious day. The ferry departs in style, and you’ll glide across the water, with scenic views and the chance to settle in with a glass of bubbles beneath James Turrell’s monumental Amarna installation.
Winery Tour and Tasting at Moorilla
Within roughly 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Moorilla, one of Tasmania’s oldest wineries. Your host, referred to as a Moorilla majordomo, will greet you and guide you through the estate. The highlight here is the tour of the winery led by an expert who shares insights into the process and techniques behind their wines, which is particularly engaging for oenophiles or curious newcomers alike.
Next, you’ll visit the barrel room, where tastings of standout wines from Moorilla take place. Reviewers have praised the experience here, noting that “the tastings were well-guided and offered a good variety of styles,” with some guests mentioning the flagship wines from Moorilla and Domaine A. The setting in the historic barrel room adds a sense of tradition and craftsmanship to the tasting.
Gourmet Lunch at The Source
After the winery tour, it’s time to indulge at The Source, Moorilla’s acclaimed restaurant. The meal is a chef’s menu featuring local produce, designed to showcase Tasmania’s culinary excellence. Expect long, beautifully presented dishes paired with flagship wines from both Moorilla and Domaine A, with a sommelier on hand to explain the pairings and enhance your understanding of each sip.
Guests have described the lunch as “a culinary journey, with the dishes perfectly matched to the wines,” and appreciated the detailed explanations about food philosophy. The experience is especially suited for those who love tasting menus and savoring thoughtfully crafted dishes.
Exploring Mona and the Art Collection
Following lunch, you’ll have time to explore the original Roy Grounds houses on site—historic structures that add context to the space. Then, you’ll head into Mona’s underground galleries, which house a diverse and thought-provoking art collection. Reviewers mention that Mona’s galleries are “large and full of intriguing pieces,” making it a highlight for art lovers.
This is a more relaxed part of the day, perfect for wandering at your own pace and reflecting on the cultural experience.
Return Journey
The day wraps up with a ferry ride back to Hobart in the Posh Pit, offering an opportunity to unwind with complimentary drinks and canapés. The return ferry is flexible, allowing you to adjust your schedule if needed—just inform your majordomo.
What’s Included and What to Consider
Included
- Ferry transfer from Hobart in the Posh Pit lounge
- Guided winery tour and tastings
- Long chefs menu lunch with wine pairings
- Access to Mona’s galleries and historic buildings
- Return ferry with drinks, canapés, and a souvenir gift
Not Included
- Hotel transfers or parking
- Under 18s are not permitted, making it an adults-only experience
- Car parking is not provided, so plan accordingly
Practical Tips
- Bring your ID or passport—necessary for the wine tasting experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking around Mona’s galleries and historic houses.
- The tour is private, which means a more personalized experience, but this also means limited flexibility in schedule if you want to leave early.
The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying
From reviews, one guest mentioned, “the entire day felt like a well-curated luxury escape,” highlighting the seamless flow from wine to art. Another appreciated the “knowledgeable guide,” emphasizing that the guided tastings and art explanations added depth to the experience.
Guests also note that the pace can be quite full, so those who enjoy a busy, immersive day will be rewarded, but travelers seeking a more relaxed time might find it a bit intense.
Many reviewers agree that the ferry ride in the Posh Pit is a real highlight—not just a mode of transport but part of the luxury experience. The complimentary drinks and canapés add to the indulgence and set the scene for a special day.
The Sum Up
Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona delivers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s best—combining wine, food, art, and scenic travel in a single day. The experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate a curated, luxurious outing and enjoy engaging with local culture in a meaningful way.
While it is a premium experience, the value for money is noticeable in the quality of guides, the gourmet meal, and the exclusive access to collections and sites. The private nature of the tour enhances the personal touch, making it suitable for couples, friends, or anyone looking to treat themselves.
If your travel style leans toward curated, culture-rich days with a focus on luxury, education, and gastronomy, this tour will surely leave you with lasting memories—and a few fine wines to take home.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the experience is focused on wine tasting, the emphasis on food, art, and scenery still makes it enjoyable for non-drinkers. However, alcohol is a significant part of the tour, so consider your preferences.
What’s the dress code?
Smart casual is perfectly fine—think comfortable shoes for walking and slightly elevated attire for the gourmet lunch.
Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour features a chef’s menu, so it’s best to notify the provider in advance if you have dietary needs. They aim to accommodate requests where possible.
Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the experience is adults-only, primarily due to alcohol tasting and age restrictions.
Is transportation to and from Hobart included?
No, you need to arrange your own hotel transfers or parking. The tour starts at Brooke Street Pier, which is accessible by public transport or car.
How long does the entire experience last?
The full day runs approximately 7 hours, including the ferry, winery tour, lunch, gallery visit, and return trip.
Can I customize the schedule?
The tour has a fixed itinerary, but the return ferry is flexible—just let your guide know if you’d like to leave earlier.
What’s the highlight for most guests?
Many find the ferry ride in the luxurious Posh Pit and the guided wine tastings to be the standout moments.
Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, after exploring Mona’s galleries, you’re free to wander at your own pace before heading back.
What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring ID, wear comfortable shoes, and come ready to enjoy a full day of premium wine, food, and art.