Tasmanian Seafood Gourmet Full-Day Cruise Including Lunch

A Complete Look at the Tasmanian Seafood Gourmet Full-Day Cruise

If you’re after a true taste of Tasmania’s renowned seafood, this full-day cruise offered by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys might just be your ideal adventure. While I haven’t personally gone on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest a well-curated experience that balances scenic beauty, culinary delight, and insightful guides. It’s a perfect outing for food lovers, water enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see more of Tasmania’s rugged coastlines without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What I love about this tour is how it combines hands-on seafood harvesting—like catching oysters, abalone, and sea urchins—with the chance to sit back and enjoy freshly prepared seafood paired with regional wines, beers, and ciders. The emphasis on local, fresh ingredients makes it a true culinary adventure. Plus, the small-group setup promises a more personalized experience, avoiding the often crowded, impersonal nature of larger tours.

One potential downside? At $502.07 per person, it’s certainly an investment. But considering the quality of seafood, guided expertise, and scenic value, many reviews point out that it’s worth every penny. Just keep in mind that this trip operates in all weather, so dressing appropriately for wind and sun is advisable.

This tour is best suited for those who love seafood, enjoy scenic boat rides, and appreciate authentic experiences that connect them directly to nature and local cuisine. It’s perfect for couples, food aficionados, or travelers wanting a memorable, immersive day that combines adventure with gourmet dining.

Key Points

• Fresh Seafood: Catch your own oysters, abalone, and sea urchins, then enjoy them prepared on board.
• Scenic Views: Traverse calm waterways and witness untouched coastal landscapes, ideal for photography and relaxation.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, sharing insights about the region and its seafood industry.
• Regional Beverages: Includes unlimited local wines, beers, and ciders to complement your seafood feast.
• All Weather Operation: Operates rain or shine — dress accordingly.

An In-Depth Exploration of the Experience

Starting Point: Franklin Wharf in Hobart

Your journey begins at Hobart’s historic Franklin Wharf, where you meet your guides and fellow travelers. The small group size means everyone’s got space to settle in comfortably, and the guides are ready with their enthusiasm and knowledge. The meeting point is easily accessible via public transport, which is a plus for those not renting a car.

The Scenic Cruise

Once aboard, you glide along the Derwent River, leaving the city behind. The boat is described as comfortable, and the route takes you into the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, offering views of untouched coastline and distant islands. As you cruise, your guides share stories about the area’s geography, wildlife, and history—adding context to your scenic surroundings.

Seafood Foraging at Bruny Island

The highlight for many is the opportunity to watch guides snorkel and forage for oysters, abalone, and sea urchins around Bruny Island’s coast. The reviews repeatedly mention how guides like Hugh and Zoe, Kate and others, are passionate and skilled, turning this into an interactive experience rather than just a sightseeing trip.

“Hugh and Zoe gave the whole group an enjoyable experience that exceeded my expectations,” one reviewer notes. The hands-on nature means you get to see how seafood is harvested, which makes the subsequent tasting even more meaningful.

Onboard Seafood Feast

After gathering the ocean bounty, the guides prepare it right there on the boat. Expect to taste rock lobster, cooked in two ways, along with freshly shucked oysters, abalone, sashimi-quality salmon, and other regional delicacies. Many share that the seafood is prepared with care and expertise, and the freshness is unparalleled.

The tour doesn’t stop at just seafood. The onboard menu is complemented by regional wines, beers, and ciders, which reviewers often praise for their quality and pairing. “The drinks flow freely, and the seafood was off the scale in freshness and preparation,” one happy traveler reports.

Scenic Landings and Wildlife Viewing

Besides the seafood, the cruise includes stops at secluded beaches and quiet bays, perfect for photography and relaxing. Some reviewers mention spotting seals, eagles, and other wildlife—adding a wild dimension to your day.

The Return and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll return to Hobart with a deep appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and seafood bounty. Many travelers emphasize how this experience feels authentic, engaging, and indulgent all at once.

The Value of the Tour

At over $500, this isn’t a casual lunch or a budget activity. But when you consider the quality of the seafood, the expert guidance, the scenic journey, and the all-inclusive drinks, many reviewers agree it’s worth the price. They praise the experience for being intimate and well-organized, providing a genuine taste of Tasmania’s culinary and natural riches.

For those who love seafood or are seeking a memorable day that combines adventure, education, and indulgence, this tour offers an exceptional value. It’s also an excellent way to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, with many hidden coves and untouched landscapes along the way.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress in layers and bring a windproof jacket—weather can be unpredictable on the water.
• Arrive at Franklin Wharf on time; the tour starts promptly.
• Remember to advise any dietary restrictions when booking.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals.
• The group size is capped at 12, so booking early is recommended.
• No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan transportation accordingly.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility if weather turns sour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re passionate about seafood and want it fresh from the ocean, this cruise is an excellent choice. It suits adventurous foodies, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates scenic boat rides combined with authentic culinary experiences. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a guided, personalized day out.

This trip might not be ideal for travelers on a tight budget, as it’s a premium experience. Also, those who prefer indoor, climate-controlled environments might find the outdoor boat ride less appealing in windy or rainy weather.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Franklin Wharf in Hobart. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time for cruising, foraging, eating, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided cruise, a gourmet seafood lunch prepared onboard, and unlimited regional wines, beers, and ciders.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. If cancellation occurs due to poor weather, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

What seafood will I get to try?
Expect oysters, abalone, sea urchins, rock lobster, and salmon—fresh, cooked, and sashimi-style.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and non-drinkers can enjoy juices and other beverages.

How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a personal experience, avoiding the crowds of larger tours.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviews consistently praise guides Hugh, Zoe, Kate, and others for their enthusiasm, expertise, and friendly manner.

Final Thoughts

This Tasmanian Seafood Gourmet Full-Day Cruise offers a blend of culinary adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance that makes it more than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to witness Tasmania’s seafood industry firsthand, enjoy stunning coastal vistas, and indulge in some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste—right from the water.

While it’s a higher-priced activity, the quality, authenticity, and personalized nature make it an experience worth considering if you’re after genuine, memorable travel moments. It’s best suited for those who are willing to spend a little extra for a day packed with flavor, scenery, and hands-on fun.

In essence, this cruise is for curious travelers who want to connect with Tasmania’s land and sea in a meaningful way, enjoying the bounty of the ocean and the beauty of the coastline in one unforgettable day.