Tasman Island Cruises Day Tour from Hobart

Planning a trip to Tasmania and eager to see its wild, dramatic coastlines? The Tasman Island Cruises Day Tour from Hobart promises a full-day adventure filled with stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and fascinating land-based sights. With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 100 reviews, it’s clear this tour hits the mark for many travelers—yet, like all adventures, it’s not without a few considerations.

If you’re after a blend of sea and land exploration, a chance to see marine life, and enjoy local attractions like the Port Arthur Historic Site or Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, this trip offers excellent value. We’re especially fond of the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the flexible nature of the experience. The only thing to keep in mind? The weather can change quickly, which might affect your cruise and land activities.

This tour suits curious travelers seeking an authentic taste of Tasmania’s rugged coast, wildlife lovers, and history buffs alike. It’s a long day—about 10.5 hours—but packed with enough highlights to make it worthwhile.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining land and sea adventures
• 3-hour eco-cruise exploring Tasman National Park’s coast
• Wildlife sightings including seals, dolphins, and whales
• Optional upgrades for Port Arthur or Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park
• Includes lunch and morning tea
• Flexible weather policies, with options to reschedule or get refunds

The Tasman Island Cruises Day Tour from Hobart is celebrated for its combination of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and land exploration, all wrapped into a single immersive day. The experience begins with a comfortable coach ride from Hobart, lasting about 1.5 hours, where your guide starts weaving a story about the region’s geological and historical significance. As you leave the city behind, expect commentary filled with insights and stories that bring Tasmania’s rugged coast to life.

The real star of the tour is undoubtedly the 3-hour eco-cruise along the coast of Tasman National Park. Here, you’ll get close-up views of some of Australia’s tallest sea cliffs, see sea caves, and watch for marine mammals. Multiple reviews highlight how spectacular the scenery is, with guides emphasizing safety and comfort, even in choppier waters. Many travelers have seen seals feeding, dolphins jumping, and even whales, with some reviewers calling it a “lifetime experience.”

After the cruise, you’ll visit notable landmarks like Remarkable Cave, a natural wonder where the waves crash into a hollowed-out limestone formation. The guides often point out interesting geological features, and reviewers have enjoyed watching the waves roll in as they stand on the viewing platform. Plus, stops at the Federation Chocolate Factory and Port Arthur lavender farm give a sweet and fragrant contrast to the wild coast.

The Land-Based Highlights

Once back on land, the tour continues with a scenic stop for lunch and a guided exploration of the area’s attractions. If you haven’t upgraded your ticket, you’ll visit Remarkable Cave, Federation Chocolate Factory, and the lavender farm—each offering a different slice of Tasmania’s natural and artisanal appeal.

For those who opt for upgrades, two popular options elevate the experience significantly:

• Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park: Offers a rare chance to see these iconic animals and learn about their conservation efforts. Reviewers mention the park features a free-flight bird show and a chance to feed kangaroos, adding a fun interactive element.
• Port Arthur Historic Site: A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, this former penal colony is a must-see for history lovers. You’ll have three hours here to wander the grounds, explore old buildings, and absorb Tasmania’s convict past.

The Experience in Detail

The itinerary is designed for a balanced day: starting early with check-in at 7:15 am, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive to the coast. The cruise itself is often described as “exciting,” with guides like Ben and Jordy praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Many reviews mention that the boat can get bumpy, but the crew provides seasickness tablets and sick bags for comfort.

The wildlife sightings are a highlight, with travelers often spotting seals, dolphins, and seabirds like albatrosses. Some reviews even mention whales being spotted—an unpredictable but thrilling bonus. The boat’s open-air seating guarantees great views, and reviewers have appreciated the crew’s professionalism and friendliness.

Back on land, stops at Remarkable Cave and lavender farms allow for some relaxed sightseeing and photo opportunities. Reviewers have enjoyed tasting lavender nougat and other local treats, plus watching waves crash into the cave—a natural spectacle that’s as dramatic as it sounds.

Transport, Duration, and Cost

The full-day tour runs approximately 10.5 hours, making it more suitable for travelers with a full day to spare. The price of $186.45 per person reflects a comprehensive experience—covering transport, the cruise, lunch, and land visits. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially considering the range of activities, wildlife encounters, and expert guides involved.

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s worth dressing appropriately—wear waterproof layers and sturdy shoes. The tour provides waterproof and windproof jackets, but you might want to bring a hat or sunscreen for comfort.

Transportation is by a modern, clean coach that can accommodate up to 40 travelers, offering a friendly and intimate atmosphere. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point at Franklin Wharf is easy to find, and most travelers appreciate the organized start time.

Customization Options: Upgrades for a More Personal Experience

One of the tour’s best features is its flexibility. If you’re particularly interested in wildlife or history, upgrading your ticket to include the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park or Port Arthur Historic Site makes sense.

• The Devil Conservation Park is a hit among animal lovers, with reviews praising the chance to see Tasmanian Devils up close, watch bird shows, and even feed kangaroos.
• The Port Arthur visit offers a deeper dive into Tasmania’s convict past, with many visitors finding the grounds both beautiful and sobering.

Reviewers who upgraded report that these stops added significant value and variety to an already memorable day, especially if history or wildlife is your thing.

Weather and Flexibility

Weather can be a factor, especially on the water. Reviews note that choppier seas may cause discomfort, but the crew is well-prepared with seasickness remedies. If conditions are poor, the tour is flexible—rescheduling or refunds are available if the weather cancels the cruise.

Most travelers find that even in less-than-ideal weather, the stunning coastline and land-based sights still make the trip worthwhile. The guides’ commentary is engaging, and the scenic beauty doesn’t disappear with the clouds.

This full-day adventure appeals most to those eager to see diverse aspects of Tasmania in one go—wildlife, rugged coastlines, and historic sites. It’s ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families looking for an active, educational day out. If you’re comfortable with a long day, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to maximize your time exploring Tasmania’s highlights, this tour covers all the bases.

Travelers who value expert guides, flexibility in land and sea activities, and well-curated stops will especially appreciate the thoughtful organization behind this experience. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for value for money, as the price includes so many diverse elements—cruise, lunch, and land excursions.

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour begins at Franklin Wharf in Hobart. However, the meeting point is central and accessible.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Waterproof and windproof jackets are provided, but bringing layers, a hat, and sunscreen is recommended.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 10 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full-day outing.

Are meals included? Yes, a light morning tea and a hearty lunch are part of the package.

Can I upgrade my experience? Yes, you can choose to include either admission to the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park or Port Arthur Historic Site.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see seals, dolphins, albatross, and possibly whales. The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about wildlife spotting.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather? The tour operates rain or shine, but the cruise may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe.

What is the group size? The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Can this be a shore excursion? No, this tour isn’t suitable for ship passengers due to timing constraints, but it’s perfect for those staying in Hobart.

The Tasman Island Cruises Day Tour from Hobart offers an authentic, well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s wild coast, wildlife, and historic sites. The combination of a scenic cruise, land explorations, and optional upgrades makes it a flexible choice for a variety of interests. The guides’ passion and knowledge shine through, making each stop informative and fun.

While weather plays a role, the overall experience is highly praised for its stunning views, wildlife encounters, and the value packed into this full-day adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want an active, diverse, and memorable day out—whether you’re into nature, history, or simply breathtaking scenery.

For anyone eager to see Tasmania’s coast in all its rugged glory, this tour delivers a compelling snapshot of the island’s natural beauty, wildlife, and history—all in one satisfying package.