Thinking about exploring Burnie during your cruise stop? The Burnie Attractions Bus offers an easy way to see some of the area’s highlights in a short, guided trip. Whether you’re after scenic views, nature, or a taste of local charm, this tour aims to deliver it all. It’s a three-hour experience designed for cruise passengers eager to get a quick but meaningful taste of Burnie, with a focus on natural beauty and coastal villages.
What we appreciate about this tour is the chance to enjoy panoramic vistas from the Upper Burnie Lookout and the peace found in the rhododendron gardens. Plus, spotting a platypus in the wild is a rare treat if luck is on your side. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the experience can fall short of expectations—some stops feel rushed or don’t quite live up to their promises. Still, this excursion is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, guided overview of Burnie’s scenic and cultural highlights without the hassle of independent planning.
For travelers looking for authentic, natural encounters and a glimpse of local life, this tour offers a taste of Tasmania’s wild side. If you’re short on time but want a structured way to see key sites, it could be just right. On the other hand, those expecting in-depth exploration or multiple extended stops might find it a bit limited.
Key Points
- Short & Sweet: A 3-hour guided tour, perfect for cruise passengers.
- Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas from the Upper Burnie Lookout.
- Natural Beauty: Gardens and wildlife, including potential platypus sightings.
- Limited Stops: Focused visits with brief durations at each site.
- Variable Experience: Some reviews mention that stops and sights may not always meet expectations.
- Value for Cost: Generally regarded as a reasonable way to see highlights without stress.
The Itinerary Breakdown: What’s on Offer
Scenic Drive to Upper Burnie Lookout
The tour begins with a short drive to Upper Burnie Lookout, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Bass Strait and the harbor. It’s a fantastic spot for photos—your chance to snap your cruise ship against the vastness of the ocean and the rugged coastline. This is a quick stop, around five minutes, but it’s enough to appreciate the expansive scenery and get a feel for Burnie’s position on the coast.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens
Next, the tour heads to the famous Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens. Covering 11 hectares, the gardens are a visual delight, especially if they’re in full bloom. You’ll see a vibrant array of rhododendrons, azaleas, and exotic plants set amidst waterfalls and towering trees. It’s a peaceful setting that offers plenty of opportunities for photos and a moment of calm.
However, the experience isn’t always perfect. Some reviews note that the gardens may not be in bloom when you visit, which can lessen the visual impact. One traveler from the U.S. pointed out that “nothing was in bloom” during their visit, which was disappointing. Still, even without the blooms, the gardens’ lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere are worth the stop.
Platypus Spotting at Fernglade Sanctuary
A highlight for wildlife lovers is the chance to spot platypuses in their natural habitat at Fernglade Sanctuary. The tour allocates around 10 minutes here, which is enough for a quick look or a hopeful sighting. Several reviews mention that finding a platypus is a bonus, and that being told where to look makes a big difference. It’s a chance to see Tasmania’s elusive native creature, but patience is key, and sightings aren’t guaranteed.
More Great Tours NearbyCoastal Village of Penguin
The final stop is the charming seaside village of Penguin, known for its friendly community and coastal scenery. You’ll have about 10 minutes to enjoy the promenade, take photos of the sandy beaches, and see the iconic penguin sculpture. It’s a quick visit, but enough to soak in the relaxed coastal vibe and maybe pick up a souvenir or two. This stop offers a gentle conclusion to your scenic overview, perfect for stretching your legs after the drive.
What To Expect: Practical Details
The Burnie Attractions Bus is a guided, small-group tour led by an English-speaking guide. Departures are scheduled multiple times daily, providing flexibility around your cruise itinerary. The tour lasts approximately three hours, giving plenty of time to visit each stop without feeling hurried. The bus is equipped with a backup vehicle, so if there’s a mechanical issue, your trip can continue smoothly—an important reassurance for travelers.
The meeting point is conveniently located at the far end of the Makers Market, right where your cruise shuttle bus drops you off. Signs and helpful staff make finding the bus straightforward. You’ll want to collect your ticket at the eGuide desk in the market, so a little advance planning is helpful.
Transportation & Group Size
The tour uses a comfortable bus that can accommodate a small group, fostering a more intimate experience. The short durations at each site mean you won’t spend hours on a bus, but it’s enough for a relaxing overview of Burnie’s scenic highlights. The guide provides commentary, sharing local insights that you probably wouldn’t get exploring alone.
Cost & Value
Considering the price, many travelers find this tour to be a good value—it’s a hassle-free way to see some of Burnie’s best spots without rental cars or complex planning. The fee covers transportation, guidance, and access to notable sites, making it an efficient way to maximize your limited shore time.
Authentic Experiences and Common Criticisms
On the whole, this tour offers a pleasant, if somewhat predictable, glimpse of Burnie. The highlights—views from the lookout, gardens, and village—are quite enjoyable. Many reviews praise the stunning scenery and the opportunity to see wildlife, especially the platypus. As one traveler from Germany noted, “Alles war wie beschrieben,” or “Everything was as described,” indicating that the itinerary generally matches expectations.
However, some guests express frustration over the limited stops and the timing. For example, one traveler from the U.S. said, “Only let off for 45 min at the gardens,” and felt that more time should have been allocated there. Others mention that the gardens may not be in bloom and that the tour feels rushed—some felt they only saw the gardens from the bus window or drove past the lookout without stopping.
The microphone and PA system have also been problematic, making it hard to hear the guide at times. Rosie, the host, was noted to be trying hard to fix these issues, but inconsistent audio can detract from the overall experience.
The Balance of What’s Good
Despite these criticisms, many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace, the scenic views, and the chance to see wildlife. The opportunity to photograph the harbor from the lookout, wander the gardens, and stroll through the village makes this a memorable if brief snapshot of Burnie.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This excursion is ideal for cruise travelers who want a guided overview of Burnie without worrying about logistics or transportation. It suits those with limited time who prefer a structured, worry-free experience. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance, however slim, to see a platypus.
On the other hand, if you’re after in-depth exploration or extended stops, this isn’t the best fit. Some travelers have found that not enough time was spent at each site, especially at the gardens or lookout. It’s also worth noting that blooming seasons vary, so if you’re visiting at a time when the gardens aren’t in full bloom, the experience might be less spectacular.
The Sum Up: Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?
The Burnie Attractions Bus offers an accessible, scenic glimpse of Tasmania’s northwest coast. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a quick, guided overview that includes some of the area’s most photogenic spots, wildlife opportunities, and charming coastal town atmosphere. The views from the lookout and the gardens are genuine highlights, especially for those who enjoy natural beauty and wildlife spotting.
If your goal is to see Burnie without fuss and enjoy some authentic scenery, this tour provides good value. Keep in mind, the experience can be a bit uneven—some sights might not fully meet expectations, and timing at each stop can be tight. Still, most travelers leave with memorable photos and stories of their brief adventure.
This tour works best if you’re comfortable with a set itinerary and brief stops, and if you’re okay with the possibility that some sights might be less vibrant depending on the season. For a relaxed, scenic, and hassle-free introduction to Burnie, it’s worth considering.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys scenic drives and wildlife spotting. The short stops and relaxed pace make it manageable for children.
What should I bring?
Bring your camera for the lookout and gardens, and dress appropriately for the weather—layers work well, as coastal weather can change quickly.
How long is each stop?
Stops are brief: about five minutes at the lookout, 30 minutes at the gardens, 10 minutes at Fernglade Sanctuary, and 10 minutes in Penguin. The focus is on seeing the highlights, not spending hours at each location.
Will I see a platypus?
There’s a good chance but no guarantee. The sanctuary is a natural habitat, so patience and a bit of luck are needed.
What if I want more time at the gardens?
The tour allocates only about 30 minutes, which might not be enough if you want to explore thoroughly. Some reviews suggest that more time would improve the experience.
Are the gardens in bloom all year?
No, the gardens’ blooms depend on the season. If visiting outside of peak bloom time, the gardens may be less colorful.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified here, so check with the provider directly if accessibility is a concern.
What happens if the bus breaks down?
There’s a backup vehicle, so the tour will continue with minimal disruption.
In essence, the Burnie Attractions Bus offers an enjoyable, straightforward way to see some of Burnie’s scenic and natural highlights—ideal for those who want an easy, guided, and reasonably priced glimpse of Tasmania’s northwest coast.
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