If you’re considering a day trip from Burnie to explore Tasmania’s stunning wilderness, this cruise-ship-friendly tour offers a flexible way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights. Designed for those with limited time ashore, it’s a balanced mix of nature, small-town charm, and wildlife encounters. While it may not be a full-scale national park adventure, it packs enough highlights to make your cruise stop memorable.
What we like about this tour is how it caters to travelers with tight schedules—offering pickup and group discounts—and the chance to enjoy Australia’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. Plus, with native wildlife sightings and gorgeous waterfalls, you’re sure to leave with a handful of great memories. The one possible downside is that the itinerary is somewhat flexible, so if your cruise dock times shift unexpectedly, the schedule may need to be adjusted. But overall, it’s a solid choice for those eager to see Tasmania’s highlights comfortably and conveniently.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a taste of Tasmania’s wilderness, enjoy small-group experiences, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. If you’re a nature lover or simply want a laid-back day exploring charming towns and striking landscapes, this trip will serve you well.
Key Points
- Ideal for cruise ship passengers with flexible timings and short durations
- Includes visits to Sheffield, Penguin, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park
- Offers a mix of scenic walks, wildlife spotting, and cultural stops
- Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most travelers
- Value-packed at around $200, including park entry fee and GST
- Limited group size (max 10) ensures personalized attention
An Honest Look at the Burnie to Cradle Mountain Day Tour
When assessing a day trip like this, the real question is: does it deliver on its promises? From the points of interest to the overall experience, let’s walk through what you can expect, what you’ll love, and what might not be your cup of tea.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burnie.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with pickup arranged to coincide with your cruise ship’s schedule. The first stop is Sheffield, often called the “Mural Town.” Here, you’ll find a charming rural vibe, famous for its vibrant street art that covers walls across the town. It’s a quick but delightful introduction to Tasmania’s local culture, and with an hour on the clock, you’ll have time to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the murals. Visitors note Sheffield’s warm hospitality, making it a welcoming start.
Next up is Penguin, a town whose very name hints at its feathered residents. The town takes pride in its penguin rookery and boasts a towering “giant penguin” sculpture—perfect for a quick photo op. If you’re a bird enthusiast or just enjoy quirky local landmarks, this stop is a fun highlight. It’s also a chance to learn about Tasmania’s famous penguin colonies, adding a wildlife touch to the trip.
The centerpiece of the day is Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. Declared a national park as early as 1910, it’s one of Australia’s most renowned protected areas. You’ll spend about an hour here exploring the stunning scenery—think waterfalls, lakes, and alpine landscapes. While the tour does not specify which walking tracks are available, it’s safe to say that the options are tailored to different fitness levels, so you can choose a gentle stroll or something more vigorous if you’re up for it.
What Travelers Appreciate
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who bring enthusiasm and insight to their commentary. One reviewer appreciated how “John was a great tour guide, covering a lot and making the day worthwhile.” The small group size (up to 10 travelers) is another perk, enabling more personal interaction and flexibility.
The scenic beauty of Tasmania is undeniable. Tour participants often mention the “stunning views” and the “beautiful waterfalls and lakes” as highlights, which truly showcase the rugged and pristine wilderness Tasmania is famous for. The stops at Sheffield and Penguin also add a cultural and wildlife dimension that enriches the experience beyond just scenery.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
One review expressed disappointment, noting that they expected a more focused experience on Cradle Mountain itself. This highlights an important point: the tour’s flexible nature means it’s not a deep-dive into any one location but rather a quick sampler designed to fit into limited shore time. If your main goal is an in-depth walk or hiking experience at Cradle Mountain, this tour might fall short.
Also, since the tour is designed for cruise passengers, the schedule depends heavily on ship arrival and departure times. Travelers should be prepared for possible itinerary modifications, especially if weather turns poor—though refunds or rescheduling are offered in such cases.
The price of approximately $200 includes the park entry fee ($29.10) and GST, which makes it a decent value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops. However, lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or planning for a quick meal is advisable.
What’s Included and Excluded?
Included are GST and park entry fees, making it straightforward for travelers to understand costs upfront. The pickup service and mobile ticket add convenience. You’ll need to handle your own lunch, which provides flexibility but also means planning ahead.
Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Accessibility
Starting at 9:00 am, the total duration is around 7 to 8 hours, including travel time between stops. The small group size ensures you won’t be on a crowded bus, and the guided format allows for questions and tailored experiences. Travelers with a moderate physical fitness level should be comfortable with walking and light hiking, but the tour isn’t designed for intense treks.
Public transportation is nearby, which adds to the ease of access, and service animals are allowed if needed. Because it’s a shore excursion, the itinerary may be altered depending on ship schedules—something to keep in mind if your port time is limited or uncertain.
What Past Travelers Say
- “Small group which was great. Cradle Mountain, Devonport, Sheffield—town of murals and Penguin. John was a great tour guide we covered a lot, which was great. Highly recommend,” said one happy reviewer.
- Conversely, another noted, “If you’re looking to kill some time and don’t mind what that entails, this might be for you,” highlighting that some travelers seek a more focused or in-depth experience.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This day trip is ideal for cruise travelers who want a convenient way to see Tasmania’s natural and cultural highlights without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy short walks, wildlife spotting, and scenic towns, with the comfort of a small group and guided commentary.
If you’re after an in-depth hike or dedicated exploration of Cradle Mountain, you might find this tour a bit superficial. However, for a quick yet enriching taste of the region, it hits the mark.
The Sum Up
This Burnie to Cradle Mountain day tour offers a practical and enjoyable way for cruise passengers to experience Tasmania’s rugged beauty and charming towns. The combination of scenic stops, wildlife, and cultural highlights makes it a well-rounded choice, especially given the small-group setting and knowledgeable guides. While it doesn’t promise a deep wilderness trek, it provides enough sparkle to leave you with lasting impressions and plenty of photos.
It’s best suited for those wanting a light, guided overview—people who appreciate stunning views, wildlife, and local culture without committing to a full-day hike or extensive planning. For anyone looking to maximize their limited time in Tasmania with a comfortable, friendly, and well-organized outing, this tour offers solid value and a memorable experience.
FAQ
What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour combines scenic visits to Sheffield, Penguin, and Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, with wildlife, waterfalls, and charming small towns.
Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The walking involved is manageable but not overly strenuous.
How long does the entire trip last?
Approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, with scheduled stops at key locations.
What is included in the price?
The tour price includes GST, park entry fee ($29.10), and transportation, with pickup and mobile ticket provided. Lunch is not included.
Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes, the schedule may be adjusted depending on your cruise ship’s arrival or departure times, or weather conditions.
Is the tour good for wildlife enthusiasts?
Yes, you’ll see native wildlife, especially at Penguin, and learn about Tasmania’s fauna from an informed guide.
Are there any optional activities?
The tour offers various walking tracks at Cradle Mountain to suit different fitness levels, but no specific optional activities are listed.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is lunch provided?
No, travelers should bring their own food or plan to purchase something during the stops.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10, ensuring a personal experience and flexibility.
In summary, this day trip offers a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and wildlife in Tasmania’s stunning setting. It’s best for those who value guided small-group tours and want a memorable snapshot of this beautiful region during a cruise stop.