Our review focuses on a popular cruise ship shore tour offering a full day exploring Tasmania’s iconic Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. This experience is designed specifically for travelers arriving by cruise, making the most of limited time while delivering a taste of Tasmania’s rugged landscape, wildlife, and natural beauty.
What we appreciate most about this tour is its small group size—max 20 people—which tends to foster a more personal, relaxed experience compared to large bus tours. Plus, the inclusion of national park fees in the price means you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the live commentary from guides brings local insights to life.
One potential downside? The timing depends heavily on your ship’s schedule, which means your itinerary might vary from day to day. If you’re used to strict schedules or have tight departure times, this variability could be a consideration.
This tour suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and wildlife spotting. It’s ideal for those who want a genuine taste of Tasmania’s wilderness—especially if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and unpredictable weather.
Key Points
- Small-group experience enhances personal attention and flexibility.
- National park fees are included, avoiding hidden costs.
- Flexible itinerary tailored to your ship’s schedule.
- Wildlife sightings such as wombats and wallabies are common highlights.
- Moderate hikes allow for a hands-on experience without requiring advanced fitness.
- Local food and wine sampling adds a delicious finish to your day.
- Weather can change quickly—be prepared for rain, wind, or sunshine.
- Efficient transportation ensures you maximize your limited time on land.
An Introduction to the Cradle Mountain Shore Tour
If you’re visiting Burnie and looking to experience Tasmania’s most famous natural landmark, this small-group shuttle day trip to Cradle Mountain offers a well-rounded taste of what makes this area special. Designed with cruise ship schedules in mind, it promises a manageable yet immersive outing, perfect for active travelers eager to see waterfalls, rainforest, and native wildlife.
We love how the tour combines scenic beauty with accessible hikes—you get to explore Dove Lake and other parts of the park, depending on your group’s pace. The inclusion of park entry fees and live commentary makes this a transparent and informative experience. Plus, finishing with some local wine and food makes the day feel complete.
However, a key consideration is timing variability; your itinerary will shift based on your ship’s arrival and departure, so flexibility is a must. If your cruise schedule is tight, this tour’s ability to adapt could be a real plus.
This experience is tailored for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers who want to make the most of their short visit to Tasmania, offering a mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural flavor.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Burnie
In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect
Stop 1: Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park
The main event begins with a drive from Burnie to the park, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic and your ship’s schedule. Once you arrive, the first stop is the famous Dove Lake, arguably Tasmania’s most iconic viewpoint. This lake, with Cradle Mountain looming in the background, provides a stunning introduction to the landscape.
Your time at Dove Lake is typically around two hours, offering opportunities for short walks, photos, and wildlife viewing. Several reviewers, like Charlie_C, mention that “views were awesome” despite unpredictable weather—clouds and drizzle didn’t dampen the scenery. Many travelers also appreciated the chance to spot wombats and wallabies in their natural habitat, with some noting close encounters, such as wombats grazing near the trail.
Hiking and Wildlife
The tour caters to active and outdoor-loving travelers, offering options for different walking tracks. Guides are usually knowledgeable about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna. One reviewer, Warren_F, highlights that their guide was “fantastic” and made the experience informative and entertaining. You might visit the original homestead of the first explorers, walk along the wooden boardwalks protecting the environment, or hike to a glacial-like viewpoint—each trail providing a unique perspective on the rugged landscape.
Weather and Preparation
Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. Several reviews, like Kathleen_R’s, mention rain, wind, and even sideways showers—but they still found the scenery worth braving the elements. Bringing layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear is wise. Guides often have umbrellas and rain jackets available, but personal gear ensures you stay comfortable.
Local Food and Wine
After exploring, the tour often concludes with a visit to a local winery or food stop, giving travelers a chance to sample Tasmanian wines and produce. This adds a relaxed, flavorful touch to an already enriching day, especially appreciated by those who enjoy tasting regional specialties.
Return to Burnie
The return trip is usually around 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time for reflection or photos. Guides are attentive to your ship’s schedule, with many reviews emphasizing their efficiency and professionalism in ensuring timely return—crucial when your cruise depends on it.
Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value
The tour uses air-conditioned minivans, which are comfortable for the long drive and provide a smoother ride over Tasmania’s often winding roads. The small-group size (max 20 travelers) creates an intimate setting, allowing guides to personalize their commentary and better accommodate individual needs.
The cost, at around $157.79 per person, includes national park entry fees, taxes, and a driver/guide—all features that add value. While the price might seem steep compared to generic tours, many travelers point out that the quality of the experience, guide expertise, and inclusions justify the cost. Several reviews, like those from Grace_I and Peter, mention that the tour was worth the trip and the scenery was “incredible”.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Prepare for weather changes—bring waterproof gear and layered clothing.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for moderate hikes.
- Plan your timing carefully—this tour depends on your cruise schedule, so communicate with your operator about your arrival and departure times.
- Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Consider your physical fitness—the tours involve moderate walking but are generally accessible for most travelers.
- Book early—this tour is popular, with over 10 bookings last month, and limited spots.
What Reviews Tell Us
The reviews are mostly very positive, with a 4.5/5 rating from 47 travelers. Enthusiasts praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the opportunity to see wildlife up close. Most agree that the value for money is good, especially considering park entry and transportation are included.
Some reviewers mention weather challenges—clouds, rain, occasional cold winds—but many see this as part of the authentic experience. A few less favorable reviews stem from timing issues or poor communication from third-party booking platforms, not the tour operator itself. Guides like Peter, Shannon, and Richard are often highlighted for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
If you’re an outdoor lover seeking an authentic taste of Tasmania’s wilderness, this tour offers a compact yet immersive experience. You’ll enjoy picturesque landscapes, wildlife encounters, and a chance to stretch your legs amid nature, all with the comfort of small-group intimacy and included park fees.
However, if your cruise schedule is very tight or you prefer a more relaxed, less physically active outing, consider how flexible your timing is. The tour’s success depends on good coordination with your ship’s arrival and departure times.
For travelers eager to see iconic scenery, spot native animals, and taste local wines, this trip offers excellent value and an authentic experience that’s hard to beat in such a limited timeframe. Guides are praised for their local expertise and engaging personalities, making even the weather challenges part of the adventure.
FAQs
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on your ship’s schedule and stops.
What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, and national park entry fees are included. The tour also features transport via air-conditioned minivan, live commentary, driver/guide, and local taxes.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase at stops. Many travelers enjoy sampling local Tasmanian wine and produce.
Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves moderate walking and outdoor activity. Bring appropriate clothing for variable weather.
What wildlife might I see?
Wombats, wallabies, and possibly echidnas are common sightings, with some travelers reporting close encounters.
How do I know the tour will match my ship’s schedule?
The itinerary is flexible and tailored to your cruise timing. The operator communicates with you 24-48 hours in advance to confirm details.
Can I customize my experience?
The tour is designed for standard cruise ship schedules, but guides can adapt within the day’s framework. Check with the operator for specific requests.
What if my ship is delayed or cancels?
While the tour is flexible, cancellations or delays on your part should be communicated promptly. Refund policies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
To sum it up, this Cradle Mountain shore excursion from Burnie offers a practical, scenic, and wildlife-rich day out for active travelers. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine stunning landscapes with local culture and wildlife in a manageable, guided format. Well-reviewed guides, the inclusion of park fees, and the chance to see Tasmania’s iconic scenery make it a worthwhile choice—weather permitting, of course!