Planning a day in Burnie on a cruise? Our overview of the Discovering Tasmania: Burnie Shore Excursion offers a detailed look at what makes this 5-hour tour a popular choice. Operated by the award-winning eGuide Tasmania, it promises a mix of lush gardens, wildlife adventures, and panoramic views—all tailored for cruise ship visitors eager to experience Tasmania without stress.
Two things we really appreciate are the diversity of experiences packed into a short window—covering gardens, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints—and the ease of a worry-free trip, thanks to the thoughtful organization and backup plans. That said, with a tour this focused on multiple stops, it’s worth considering how much walking or wildlife interaction your group prefers. Overall, it’s an excellent pick for travelers seeking authentic Tasmanian scenery and wildlife, especially if you value good value and knowledgeable guides.
Key Points
- Diverse Experience: Combines gardens, wildlife, and scenic lookout points.
- Short & Sweet: Efficient 5-hour tour ideal for cruise schedules.
- Value for Money: Includes entrance fees and expert guidance.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see and learn about native animals.
- Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from George Woodhouse Lookout and Upper Burnie Lookout.
- Well-Organized: Reliable transportation with backup vehicles and flexible start times.
Introduction: A Solid Choice for Tasmanian Shore Explorers
If you’re arriving in Burnie on a cruise ship and want a hassle-free way to experience Tasmania’s highlights, this tour offers a convincing package. It’s crafted specifically for cruise ship passengers, making sure you see the best without missing the ship’s departure. From lush gardens to wildlife and impressive coastal views, the tour balances scenic beauty with interactive wildlife experiences.
What we really like are the variety of highlights packed into just five hours—you visit the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens for a peaceful walk among vibrant blooms, and then explore Wings Wildlife Park, where you can see iconic animals like kangaroos and Tasmanian devils up close. The tour also provides panoramic outlooks, giving you a complete snapshot of Tasmania’s natural charm without feeling rushed.
However, one thing to keep in mind is the tour’s busy schedule, which requires some walking and wildlife viewing. It’s best suited for generally active travelers who appreciate a mix of gentle outdoor activities and scenic stops. If you love nature, wildlife, and convenient travel logistics, this tour hits the right notes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burnie
What Makes This Shore Excursion Stand Out?
The appeal of this tour lies in its balance of scenery, wildlife, and ease. It’s designed to get you the most out of a limited time while avoiding the typical pitfalls of rushed sightseeing. The fact that the tour has been booked over 5 times just last week suggests it’s a trusted choice among travelers, with solid reviews backing it up.
The focus on wildlife and botanical beauty makes it especially attractive for nature lovers. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic viewpoint at George Woodhouse Lookout and Upper Burnie Lookout ensures you won’t miss some of the best coastal vistas. For those who enjoy photography, these spots are particularly rewarding, offering a chance for memorable snapshots of Tasmania’s rugged coastlines.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Stop 1: Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens
A highlight for garden enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers alike, the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens are a true hidden gem just 20 minutes from Burnie. Covering 11 hectares, this botanical wonderland is more than just a collection of plants; it’s an immersive experience in Tasmania’s lush landscape. Expect towering eucalypts and the gentle sounds of ferns and native birds creating a peaceful backdrop for exploration.
Visitors can walk among vibrant rhododendrons, which bloom in a dazzling array of colors, and enjoy the fresh, clean air. The gardens are designed for easy strolling, making it accessible for most mobility levels. As one reviewer put it, “The waterfalls were absolutely stunning and it was a nice easy walk,” which emphasizes the relaxed, scenic quality of this stop. The admission fee is included, so you get all this botanical beauty at no extra cost.
Stop 2: Wings Wildlife Park
Next, you’ll visit Wings Wildlife Park, where the focus shifts from cultivated gardens to Tasmania’s iconic fauna. The park offers a leisurely experience—you can wander at your own pace and interact with some animals if you wish. Kangaroos and wallabies hop freely in open areas, giving you the chance to get close and even feed them, while the chance to see Tasmanian devils in their habitat speaks to the park’s conservation efforts.
One traveler commented, “The wildlife park was amazing, allowing us opportunities to interact with wallabies and kangaroos as well as see Tasmanian devils, echidnas, and wombats.” The park’s focus on conservation is a big draw, and the included entrance fee makes it easy to enjoy this educational and fun experience.
Optional animal encounters are available if you book ahead, and the staff are known for their informative approach, explaining how these animals are cared for and their importance in Tasmania’s ecosystem. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time for photos and close-up looks.
Scenic Views and Photo Stops
The tour wraps up with two scenic outlooks—George Woodhouse Lookout and Upper Burnie Lookout—both of which offer sweeping vistas of the coast and the surrounding landscape. The stops are brief but give enough time for photos and soaking in the views, making them perfect for capturing memories or just enjoying a quiet moment.
The guide will advise on the best timing and ensure you return to the cruise port comfortably, with a backup vehicle in case of delays. This level of planning adds a layer of reassurance, especially for travelers concerned about timing.
Transportation and Group Size
The tour operates with a mobile ticket system and typically involves small to medium-sized groups—up to 50 travelers. The transportation is comfortable, and the tour operator ensures timely pickups and drop-offs across the scheduled window, emphasizing reliability. The tour’s total duration is about 5 hours and 15 minutes, including travel time, making it a manageable half-day outing.
The starting point is conveniently located at 13 Wilmot St, Burnie, with the tour’s schedule adjusted to accommodate cruise ship arrivals and departures. The flexibility with start times is a plus, especially if your ship’s schedule changes.
Pricing and Value
At $143.45 per person, this tour offers solid value, considering the included attractions, guided insights, and the comfortable transportation. Entrance fees for the gardens and wildlife park are included, saving you extra costs and streamlining the experience.
Travelers have praised the guides’ knowledge, noting that Howard, in particular, made the trip memorable with his commentary. Many reviews emphasize the great value for money, with visitors appreciating the variety of stops packed into just five hours and the quality of the experience overall.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This shore excursion suits nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and travelers who want a well-organized, scenic taste of Tasmania without strenuous activity. It’s ideal for those who appreciate botanical beauty, animal encounters, and panoramic views. If you prefer a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn about Tasmania’s environment, this tour hits the right notes.
It’s also great for travelers who value reliable logistics and a worry-free experience, as the tour is designed specifically for cruise ship schedules, with contingency plans in place.
The Sum Up
For cruise visitors stopping in Burnie, this Discovering Tasmania tour is a practical, engaging way to see some of Tasmania’s best natural attractions. It’s particularly good for those who want a balanced mix of gardens, wildlife, and coastlines in just a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day outing. The included entrance fees, expert guides, and scenic viewpoints provide excellent value, especially when you consider the convenience and organization.
While it is a somewhat busy schedule, the variety and quality of experiences make it worthwhile. The tour’s focus on wildlife and botanical beauty ensures you come away with memorable images and a genuine sense of Tasmania’s natural charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning in search of a quick yet enriching glimpse of Tasmania’s outdoors, this excursion makes for an enjoyable, hassle-free day.
FAQ
How long is the entire tour?
The total tour time is approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, including travel between stops and the time spent at each attraction.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes admission to both the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens and Wings Wildlife Park.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves some walking and wildlife viewing. It’s well-suited for active individuals who enjoy outdoor experiences.
What should I expect at Wings Wildlife Park?
You’ll see native animals like kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils, with opportunities for photos and possibly animal encounters, depending on arrangements.
Will I have enough time for photos?
Absolutely. The scenic outlooks and gardens are prime spots for taking pictures, and the tour schedule allows for photo stops at key viewpoints.
Can the start time be adjusted?
Yes, the tour’s start time may be flexible to match your cruise schedule. The operator will advise on the best timing to ensure you’re back on time.
This detailed review should help you decide whether this Burnie shore excursion fits your needs, and guide you in making the most of your Tasmanian adventure.