Bruny Island lies just south of Hobart across the D'Entrecasteaux Channel, and it is one of the most popular day trips in southern Tasmania. The island is known for its coastline, its wildlife and its small food producers, and a guided tour is the easiest way to see it because ferry timing and distances are handled for you. This full-day tour includes the return ferry tickets, a driver and guide with live commentary, hotel pick-up from within about 5 km of the city centre, and the national parks pass. Stops include an oyster bar, the narrow isthmus called The Neck, Adventure Bay, a short walk and picnic area at Mavista, the Bruny Island Chocolate Company, Alonnah, and the honey shop. It is a relaxed, food-focused day with plenty of scenery, and groups are capped at 20.
What to do
The day follows a loose route that starts with fresh oysters, then climbs to the lookout over The Neck, the thin strip of land that joins north and south Bruny. At Adventure Bay you can walk on the beach, and at Mavista there is a picnic area and walking track.
Chocolate and honey stops give a taste of the island's producers. At Alonnah the group takes a break, and the Cape Bruny Lighthouse tour is offered as an extra, with admission not included. The guide adjusts the plan to the weather and the group, so there is no fixed timetable.
Planning
The tour starts at 7:30 am, with hotel pick-up from places within about 5 km of the city centre; private rentals are not covered, and you must email your accommodation details to the operator. Round-trip ferry tickets and the national parks pass are included, and food and drinks are provided, with alcohol available to buy.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, children must be with an adult, and the vehicle holds a maximum of 20 guests. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience. Reviews mention steep walks and winding roads, so bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to it.
Fitting it in
This is a full day, and you return to Hobart in the late afternoon or early evening. The ferry crossing from Kettering is short, but the island is large, so a guided tour means you see far more than a first-time driver would. If you prefer self-drive, book the ferry well ahead in busy periods. Bring layers, because the wind on the southern headlands can be sharp even on a sunny day, and bring a camera for the wildlife and coastline. Pair it with a quieter day in Hobart afterwards.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day coach tour with return ferry tickets, food stops, short walks and coastal lookouts.
Best time
Choose a calm, clear day, with spring to autumn the most comfortable for the headland walks.
How long
A full day from a 7:30 am start, returning in the late afternoon or early evening.
Tips
Email your accommodation address to the operator for pick-up, pack warm layers, and take motion sickness tablets if winding roads upset you.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food lovers and first-time visitors who want Tasmanian coastline and local produce without driving.
- Families
- Children accompanied by an adult are welcome, but the day is long and some walks are steep, so snacks and layers help.
- Couples
- Share oysters, chocolate and the view from The Neck, then relax on the ride back.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a quiet evening at Salamanca Place, or follow it the next day with Port Arthur.
- Time needed
- A full day, about ten hours door to door.
Good questions
Is the ferry included in this tour?+
Yes, round-trip ferry tickets are included in the price. The tour also includes the national parks pass and a guide with live commentary.
What time does the tour start?+
The tour begins at 7:30 am, with hotel pick-up for addresses within about 5 km of Hobart's city centre. Guests who are not in range can use the meeting point.
Is the lighthouse tour included?+
The Cape Bruny Lighthouse tour is offered as an extra stop, and its admission is not included. Ask your guide about the timing on the day.
How many people are on the tour?+
The group is capped at 20 travellers. The operator adjusts the route to suit the weather and the group.
Is it suitable for children?+
Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, and infants must sit on laps. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and some walks and roads are steep or winding.
