If your cruise docks in Burnie and you’re eyeing a way to see a slice of Tasmania without spending hours on your own, the Burnie Attractions Bus offers a practical and lively way to do just that. This three-hour guided bus tour is designed for travelers who want to experience some of Burnie’s most scenic spots and get a taste of local wildlife, all while staying within a comfortable, organized structure.
What we appreciate about this tour is how it balances breathtaking viewpoints with authentic encounters with nature and history. The stops at the Upper Burnie Lookout and the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens offer stunning visuals, while the visits to wildlife reserves add a genuine sense of Tasmania’s wilderness. We also like the flexibility baked into the itinerary—some may prefer shorter stops, but the overall selection provides a good overview for those with limited time.
That said, the tour isn’t without its quirks. Some travelers have found it a bit rushed, especially during busy seasons, or experienced issues with commentary when the PA system isn’t working properly. Considering the price point of roughly $65 per person, you’ll want to keep in mind that some may find the experience a bit hurried or the commentary less than flawless.
This tour is best suited for cruise visitors who want a quick, guided snapshot of Burnie’s best sights with a friendly local guide—especially those who appreciate stunning views, wildlife spotting, and a taste of local charm without the hassle of planning their own day.
Key Points
- Great for cruise visitors with limited time who want a guided overview of Burnie.
- Includes stops at scenic viewpoints, botanical gardens, and wildlife reserves.
- Highlights the chance to see native creatures like platypuses.
- Some reviews mention a rushed schedule and occasional technical issues with commentary.
- Offers good value for the price, with admission included to key sites.
- Ideal for travelers who prefer organized tours over self-guided exploration.
An In-Depth Look at the Burnie Attractions Bus Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burnie
Starting Point and Ease of Access
The tour kicks off at 13 Wilmot St, right at the Makers Market, which is conveniently accessible via the free shuttle bus from your cruise ship. This makes it easy to hop on without fuss. The initial gathering spot is straightforward, and the ticketing process is simple, making it ideal for first-time visitors unfamiliar with Burnie.
The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Journey
Upper Burnie Lookout
The first stop offers a panoramic sweep of Bass Strait and Burnie’s harbour, perfect for snapping a quick photo of your cruise ship. The views here are typically praised as breathtaking, giving you a sense of the rugged Tasmanian coast. As one reviewer put it, this viewpoint provides “breathtaking views of Burnie and snap a memorable photo of your cruise ship.”
Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens
Next, you’ll visit a vast 11-hectare botanical garden renowned for its rhododendrons and exotic flora. During the blooming season, this would be a riot of color, but even outside of it, the gardens offer a peaceful setting for strolling and wildlife sightings—many report spotting platypuses in the ponds here, which adds a memorable touch. The garden also features a charming café with panoramic views, where you can enjoy a Devonshire Tea or a quick snack.
Admission to the gardens is included, making it excellent value. The gardens are a highlight for many, especially those interested in Tasmania’s native plants and wildlife. The gardens also have toilet facilities, which is a welcome convenience.
Fern Glade Platypus Reserve
Following the gardens, the tour visits Fernglade Reserve, a tranquil spot where native wildlife is abundant. Here, the chance to observe platypuses in their natural habitat is a big draw—many reviewers have enjoyed this stop, with some remarking that they “encountered native wonders such as the elusive platypus and vibrant birdlife.” It’s a peaceful escape into Tasmania’s wilderness, perfect for nature lovers. The short 10-minute stop is enough for a quick walk and wildlife viewing.
The Final Stop: Burnie Regional Museum
The last sightseeing stop is the museum, which features a reconstructed street of Burnie as it looked in the 1800s. It’s a nice way to connect with the local history and see what life was like more than a century ago. Admission is free, and the museum is within walking distance from the shuttle bus, so you can explore at your own pace if you choose to disembark here.
The Guide and Transportation
The bus itself is described as modern and comfortable, with modern transportation that makes the short trips pleasant. The onboard guide is intended to provide insights, but some reviews mention disorganized or inexperienced guides—a point worth noting, especially if you’re hoping to learn quite a bit during the ride. The driver, however, gets high praise; many reviewers appreciated the smooth driving and friendly attitude.
The Quality of the Experience
While the tour offers some fantastic sights, it’s clear that timing can be tight, especially during busy seasons. Several reviews mention feeling rushed or experiencing technical issues with the PA system, which can interfere with the commentary. One guest noted the PA system didn’t work, causing them to miss most of the narration—something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for detailed historical or cultural insights.
Value and Cost
At $64.55 per person, this tour is a reasonably priced way to see Burnie’s key spots. Included admission to gardens and the museum adds value, and the stops at scenic viewpoints are free for perusal and photo-taking. For cruise travelers, it offers a convenient, guided experience with enough variety to keep everyone engaged.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This excursion is perfect for those who want a taste of Burnie’s scenic beauty and wildlife without the hassle of organizing their own transport. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning views, nature sightings, and learns better with a guide, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.
However, if you’re after deep historical insights or a leisurely pace, you might find it slightly hurried or too surface-level. The short stops are designed for quick visits, so if you prefer more time at each site, you may want to consider a private or self-guided option.
Final Thoughts
The Burnie Attractions Bus offers a solid introduction to Burnie’s natural and cultural highlights. Its strengths lie in spectacular viewpoints, the unique opportunity to see platypuses in the wild, and the convenience of a guided tour tailored to cruise passengers. The experience is well-suited to those who want an organized, efficient overview and don’t mind a slightly brisk pace.
While some aspects could be improved—like ensuring the commentary system works flawlessly—many travelers will find this tour well worth the price. It captures the essence of Burnie’s scenic beauty and wildlife, making it a worthwhile addition to your Tasmanian itinerary.
Who Will Love This Tour?
- Cruise visitors seeking quick but comprehensive sightseeing.
- Nature lovers eager to see native wildlife like platypuses and birdlife.
- Travelers interested in local history and beautiful gardens.
- Those who prefer guided, worry-free experiences.
Who Might Want More?
- Visitors craving more in-depth commentary might find the guide’s performance inconsistent.
- Those looking for longer visits or a more relaxed pace may find the short stops limiting.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including travel and stops.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 13 Wilmot St, at the Makers Market, accessible via the free shuttle from your cruise ship.
Is admission to the gardens and museum included?
Yes, admission charges are included for the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens and the Burnie Regional Museum.
What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect panoramic views from the Upper Burnie Lookout, exploring botanical gardens, spotting platypuses at Fernglade Reserve, and a glimpse into Burnie’s history at the museum.
Are there any reported issues during the tour?
Some reviews mention the tour feeling rushed or experiencing PA system issues, which may affect commentary clarity.
Can I disembark at the museum?
Yes, if you wish, you can get off at the museum, which is a 5-minute walk from the shuttle stop, and explore at your leisure.
What is the price, and is it good value?
At just over $64, including site admissions, it offers a cost-effective way to see Burnie’s highlights without stress.
To sum it up, if you’re after a friendly, efficient way to see some of Burnie’s best sights, this tour hits many of the right notes. While it’s not a deep dive into the history or culture, it provides a beautiful snapshot of Tasmania’s rugged coast, lush gardens, and wildlife—perfect for those eager to experience Burnie without the fuss of planning.