Wineglass Bay And Maria Island Wildlife Scenic Flight From Hobart

Travelers seeking a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty, wildlife, and pristine coastlines often find themselves drawn to scenic flights. One standout experience is the Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Wildlife Scenic Flight from Hobart, a three-hour adventure that combines breathtaking aerial vistas, close encounters with native animals, and delicious local cuisine.

We haven’t personally taken this flight, but based on numerous glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic Tasmanian flavor. Our favorite aspects include the spectacular views of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay from the air and the chance to interact with iconic wildlife like wombats and wallabies on Maria Island.

One potential consideration? The tour’s cost of $357.90 per person might seem steep for a short trip, but the combination of sights, wildlife, and food makes it well worth the price for many travelers. This experience will suit those who love aerial panoramas, enjoy wildlife, and want a taste of Tasmania’s top natural spots—all in a compact, half-day outing that fits easily into a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Tasmania’s east coast, including Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay.
• Wildlife encounters on Maria Island with wombats, kangaroos, and wallabies in their natural habitat.
• Local culinary experience with a Tasmanian picnic lunch featuring fresh produce and wines.
• Expert guides and pilots offer informative commentary, enriching the scenic flight.
• Convenient half-day tour ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience Tasmania’s highlights.
• Additional costs include a national park pass at A$47.75, but the overall value remains high considering the tour’s scope.

An Overview of What to Expect

The journey begins at the Par Avion meeting point in Cambridge, about a 20-minute drive from Hobart’s city center. Once onboard, you’ll take off around 11:00am, ascending over Tasmania’s stunning east coast. The flight itself is about three hours long, packed with incredible views and fascinating commentary from your pilot.

The Scenic Flight: East Coast and Freycinet Peninsula

Your journey kicks off with a flight over Tasmania’s famous Freycinet Peninsula, one of the island’s earliest national parks since 1916. Expect to see dramatic pink granite mountains, secluded coves, and the famed Wineglass Bay, often cited as Australia’s most iconic white-sand beach. The aerial perspective reveals the bay’s perfect crescent shape and shimmering waters, a sight that many reviewers describe as “something truly spectacular.”

The flight provides a unique vantage point—something that ground visits can’t match—allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of Tasmanian coastline. It’s no surprise that travelers like Donald W. mention, “We didn’t realize how beautiful the Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay area is until we saw it from the air.” This perspective also helps travelers understand the geography of the region, making subsequent visits more meaningful.

Maria Island: Wildlife and Wilderness

After soaring over the coast, your plane will land on Maria Island, a pristine, largely untouched national park. Here, you’ll have the chance to set foot on crystal-clear beaches and explore ancient forests. The island is home to endangered species like wombats, Tasmanian devils, and swift parrots, which you might encounter during your walk.

Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll learn about the island’s natural history and conservation efforts. Reviewers rave about the wildlife encounters, with one describing being surrounded by wallabies, kangaroos, and wombats—an experience many say is “surreal.”

A Picnic of Tasmanian Flavors

A highlight on the ground is the bountiful picnic lunch prepared with fresh Tasmanian produce. As you gaze over the northern end of Maria Island, you’ll enjoy local cheeses, bread, and perhaps some of Tasmania’s renowned wines—perfectly paired with the scenery. Several reviews mention the lunch exceeding expectations, emphasizing the quality of the food and wine as part of the experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start: Par Avion, 115 Kennedy Drive, Cambridge—an easy drive from Hobart. The tour kicks off promptly at 11:00am, and group sizes are capped at 22 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

First stop: Flying over Freycinet National Park, you’ll witness pink granite peaks and the white sands of Wineglass Bay from the sky. The views are described as “spectacular” and “unforgettable” by many guests, making this a highlight for photography lovers and scenery enthusiasts alike.

Second stop: Landing on Maria Island, you’ll explore its untouched beaches, marine reserves, and rugged scenery. Your guide will take you on a brief walk, during which wildlife sightings are common. The ship’s crew ensures you get the most out of your short time on land.

Third stop: The picnic lunch, served with Tasmanian wines and local snacks, offers a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests consistently mention the quality and abundant nature of the food as a standout.

Return: The flight concludes back at the meeting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $357.90 seems steep at first glance, but considering the inclusions—a scenic flight, wildlife encounters, a guided tour, lunch, snacks, and drinks—the experience offers excellent value. The A$47.75 national park fee is an extra, but given the scope of the experience, many see it as a fair fee for gaining access to such pristine environments.

The tour’s timing and group size make for an enjoyable, manageable experience—small enough to foster a relaxed atmosphere, but large enough to ensure a lively, social vibe. The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’re eligible for a full refund or rescheduling.

Travelers should be prepared for weather variations—bring a hat, sunglasses, enclosed shoes, and a coat. The experience is suitable for most travelers, including children accompanied by adults, making it accessible for families and groups alike.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

Looking at the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers on its promises. Mendy_T calls it an “extraordinary excursion,” praising the professional pilot, Michael, for his engaging commentary and smooth landing. “Beautiful views and amazing wildlife,” she notes, expressing how the experience exceeded expectations.

Donald W. describes it as “his best tour in Australia,” emphasizing the stunning views of Freycinet and Wineglass Bay from the air. Josep R. appreciated the friendly staff and the efficient schedule, while Kiera L. highlighted the delicious lunch and excellent pilot.

Most reviews mention the highest of recommendations, with guests remarking that the trip is “a must-do,” “spectacular,” and “well worth every cent.” The consistent praise for wildlife encounters—particularly wombats and wallabies—reflects how special the land part of the tour truly is.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This scenic flight is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, visually stunning introduction to Tasmania’s most famous sights. If you’re interested in bird’s-eye views, wildlife encounters, and local Tasmanian cuisine, this tour checks all boxes.

It’s also ideal for those short on time but eager to maximize their experience. Families, wildlife lovers, and photography enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re someone who values authentic, immersive experiences without long hikes or multiple days, this flight offers a perfect snapshot of Tasmania’s natural beauty.

Final Words

In sum, the Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Wildlife Scenic Flight from Hobart provides an impressive blend of aerial scenery, wildlife encounters, and gourmet food. While the price might seem high, the combination of breathtaking views, expert commentary, and exclusive landings makes it a worthwhile investment for many.

For those wanting a compact, authentic taste of Tasmania’s coastlines and wildlife, this tour offers an unforgettable experience—one that captures the island’s spirit and natural grandeur in just a few hours.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about three hours, including the flight, land visit, and lunch.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Par Avion, 115 Kennedy Drive, Cambridge, Tasmania, at 11:00am.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the scenic flight, wildlife encounters, a guided tour, a Tasmanian picnic lunch with wine, snacks, coffee or tea, and live commentary.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a A$47.75 national park pass is required, payable separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather—bring a hat, sunglasses, enclosed shoes, and a coat.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 22 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this scenic flight from Hobart offers an exceptional way to see some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a quick, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure, combining stunning aerial views with the flavors of local produce. Whether you’re a photography buff, wildlife enthusiast, or simply in search of an unforgettable experience, this tour covers all bases—delivering a memorable slice of Tasmania’s natural beauty.