Shore Excursion: Hobart Highlights Day Tour

If you’re visiting Hobart on a cruise and want to make the most of your limited time, the Hobart Highlights Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city and surrounding areas. It’s a package designed for first-time visitors eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning or transportation logistics. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 100 reviews, this tour is clearly popular — and for good reason.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the stunning views from Mt Wellington and the chance to interact with Tasmania’s unique wildlife at Bonorong Sanctuary. These experiences provide authentic encounters that stick with you long after the day ends. A potential consideration is the weather—since the tour is outdoors and weather-dependent, some stops, like Mt Wellington, could be less impressive on a cloudy or rainy day. Still, the tour’s flexible scheduling and knowledgeable guides help make the best of any conditions.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture in a manageable, single-day format. It’s especially ideal if you want to maximize sightseeing with minimal fuss, and are curious about Tasmania’s natural beauty and heritage.

Key Points

• Comprehensive in scope: Covers Hobart’s highlights in approximately 5–7 hours.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable drivers and guides enhance your understanding and enjoyment.
• Stunning viewpoints: Mt Wellington offers breathtaking panoramic views.
• Wildlife encounters: Up close with kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and other native animals.
• Convenience: Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from the cruise port.
• Value for money: At about $107, it includes transportation, a wildlife sanctuary visit, and several sightseeing stops.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Kunanyi / Mt Wellington

Your adventure begins with a drive up Mt Wellington, reaching an elevation of 1272 meters. From the summit, you’ll be treated to views spanning the city and beyond. Despite the often chilly, windy conditions—reviewers note it’s significantly cooler than Hobart—the scenery is spectacular. The tour offers a chance to breathe in Tasmania’s famously pristine air while soaking in sweeping vistas.

Many travelers find this the highlight of their day. One reviewer mentions, “The scenery was beautiful and Mark’s commentary was funny and informative.” However, keep in mind that poor weather could limit the views; if clouds or snow obscure the summit, a nearby lookout may substitute.

Stop 2: Salamanca Market (Saturday Only)

On Saturdays, the tour visits the world-famous Salamanca Market. This open-air market is a feast for the senses—local artisans, fresh produce, and street performers showcase Hobart’s vibrant culture. If you love shopping for unique souvenirs or sampling local delicacies, this is your chance.

One visitor describes it as “a delightful array of art, local produce, and talented performers,” making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Be aware that the market only runs on Saturdays, so if your visit falls on a weekday, you might skip this stop.

Stop 3: Richmond

Next, the tour ventures to Richmond, a charming historic village just outside Hobart. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture are perfect for a quick walk. Key sights include Australia’s oldest bridge, which is a highlight for history buffs, and well-preserved sandstone buildings that tell tales of Tasmania’s convict past.

Travelers often comment on the quaintness of Richmond: “It’s a lovely little town, perfect for a quick look and maybe a snack.” You get about an hour here, which some find tight for a full exploration or a proper sit-down lunch, but it’s enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos.

Stop 4: The Wicked Cheese Co.

Driving through Coal River Valley, a renowned cool-climate wine region, the tour makes a brief stop at The Wicked Cheese Co. This isn’t just a cheese shop; it’s an experience. You can sample locally produced cheeses, and some reviews mention the region’s award-winning wines, although wine tasting isn’t included in the tour.

It’s a quick 15-minute stop, but many travelers enjoy browsing and tasting. Some note that the visit feels more like a shop stop than a full tasting experience, but it’s a tasty and scenic break on your route.

Stop 5: Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

The tour concludes at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, a must-see for nature lovers. Here, you can see and feed kangaroos, get up close with wombats, and observe the elusive Tasmanian devils. Many reviews praise this stop, calling it a “delightful experience” and a highlight for families and animal enthusiasts.

One visitor shared, “Feeding kangaroos and seeing Tasmanian devils was unforgettable—this is real Tasmania.” The sanctuary offers an authentic chance to connect with the country’s unique fauna. The entry fee isn’t included, but the general experience makes it worth the small extra cost.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with groups typically limited to 20 travelers. This small size helps ensure more personalized attention and easier movement through stops. Several reviews mention the guides’ friendly demeanor and their ability to adapt the schedule based on weather or group needs.

Duration and Pacing

With a duration of 5 to 7 hours, the tour strikes a good balance between seeing major sights and not feeling rushed. The itinerary is carefully timed, with most stops ranging from 15 minutes at Wicked Cheese to about an hour at Richmond and Bonorong.

Reviewers note that the pace is brisk but flexible. If you’re someone who enjoys a quick but fulfilling overview of a destination, this tour hits the mark. However, those wanting more time at each stop should plan accordingly.

Cost and Value

At $107.59 per person, including transport, guide commentary, and entrance to Bonorong, this tour offers good value. A review highlights that “it’s excellent value for money,” especially considering it covers five key attractions. Lunch isn’t included, so budgeting for a snack or meal during your free time is wise.

Weather Considerations

Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour operates in most conditions, but bad weather might limit visibility from Mt Wellington. In such cases, the guide will substitute a nearby lookout, ensuring you still get a scenic experience. Packing layers and rain gear is recommended.

Reviews and Insights

The travel community consistently praises the knowledgeable guides—one reviewer even called a guide “exceptionally good.” Many appreciate the combination of sightseeing, wildlife, and local culture, with comments like “magnificent views from Mount Wellington” and “feeding kangaroos was a highlight.”

A few critiques mention that some stops, like Richmond, felt rushed, or that the cheese shop was more of a shopping stop than an experience. The overall feedback leans strongly positive, especially for those seeking an authentic snapshot of Hobart.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one introduction to Hobart’s highlights. It’s perfect for cruise passengers with limited time but a desire for meaningful experiences. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the scenic views, and wildlife fans will revel in the chance to see native animals up close.

It’s also well-suited for families and groups who want a guided experience that balances sightseeing with local flavor. If you enjoy learning from friendly, knowledgeable guides and don’t mind some time outdoors, this tour will suit you.

Final Thoughts

The Hobart Highlights Day Tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and wildlife encounters—all wrapped into a manageable half-day adventure. Its affordability is complemented by the quality of guides and the memorable sights you’ll see. While weather can influence the experience, the tour’s flexibility and comprehensive itinerary make it a dependable choice for travelers seeking a broad overview of Tasmania’s capital.

This trip is best for those who want a quick, engaging taste of Hobart and its surrounds, emphasizing authentic experiences like feeding kangaroos and enjoying panoramic mountain views. It’s a solid introduction that can leave you eager to explore more of Tasmania at your own pace.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on the day and weather conditions.

Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or plan to buy something during free time.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in most weather conditions. If poor weather affects views from Mt Wellington, a nearby lookout will be substituted.

Is pickup from the cruise port provided?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup and drop-off from Hobart cruise port.

What’s the group size?
Most groups are small, with a maximum of 20 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

Is the wildlife sanctuary visit worth it?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight feeding kangaroos and seeing Tasmanian devils as a memorable highlight.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fixed, but guides are known to be flexible when possible, especially with weather adjustments or group needs.