Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour

If you’re dreaming of snapping that iconic shot of Wineglass Bay or craving an authentic day exploring Tasmania’s natural beauty, the Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour offers a compelling option. This tour combines a scenic boat ride, a gentle bushwalk, and time to unwind on the pristine sands—all without the grueling hike most travelers dread.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the speed and ease of reaching Wineglass Bay via the Freycinet Aqua Express. Second, the opportunity to relax at Hazards Beach with your own picnic or beach gear. Third, the presence of informative guides who share stories about the area’s wildlife and history.

That said, a potential consideration is that this tour does not include lunch or drinks, so you’ll need to bring your own refreshments. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more relaxed approach to experiencing one of Tasmania’s most photographed spots without the physical challenge of a full bushwalk.

Good To Know

• Comfortable and convenient: The tour offers a quick, scenic way to reach Wineglass Bay without the strenuous hike.
• Flexible options: Choose between a half-day or full-day experience, depending on your schedule.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
• Self-sufficient packing: Bring your own food and drinks, as none are provided.
• Authentic exploration: Walks through the bushland and along Hazards Beach give a genuine taste of Tasmania’s coastal wilderness.
• Good value: The price includes transport, guided commentary, and a relaxing beach experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Overview

Our review of the Freycinet Aqua Express paints a picture of an efficient, enjoyable way to reach the famous Wineglass Bay. Instead of enduring a challenging bushwalk, this tour offers a seamless coastal transfer combined with an easy bushwalk—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility considerations.

The trip is all about saving time and maximizing comfort while still offering an authentic taste of the area’s natural beauty. The boat ride along the granite coastline of Great Oyster Bay is 30 minutes of stunning views, with guides sharing stories about the local wildlife and history—adding a layer of context that makes the experience more engaging.

The Itinerary and Stops

The journey begins at the Coles Bay Boat Ramp, where you’ll board the vessel operated by Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. The boat’s speed and stability ensure a smooth ride along the coast, giving you ample opportunities to snap photos of the rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The guides go beyond just pointing out scenery—they share interesting tidbits about the area’s geology and wildlife, like the possibility of spotting wallabies or echidnas along the walk.

The first stop is at Hazards Beach, where you’ll disembark for a 30-minute bushwalk along the Isthmus Track. The walk is gentle, covering around 2 kilometers, and takes you through coastal bushland where local wildlife often makes an appearance. Reviewers have highlighted the guides’ local knowledge, with one stating, “Skipper and crew were great, local info and well worth the trip.”

Reaching Wineglass Bay

Once at Hazards Beach, you’ll have time to relax, swim, or simply soak up the scenery. The sands are often described as soft and white, with waters that are crystal clear—perfect for a quick dip or lounging with your picnic. The walk to the lookout offers panoramic views and is a favorite among visitors, although one reviewer mentioned it’s a “big walk”, so be prepared for some steady footing.

In the reviews, many loved having plenty of time to explore on their own, with one saying, “We had plenty of time to explore, walk to the lookout, then more walks on the beach.” This flexibility is a big draw for those who want to set their own pace.

The Return Journey

The tour concludes with a boat ride back to Coles Bay, typically around 2:15 pm for the half-day option and 3:30 pm for the full-day. The timing allows you to enjoy a relaxed afternoon without feeling rushed.

The Practicalities

• Pricing: At around $86 per person, the cost covers the boat transfer, guide commentary, and the convenience of skipping the more strenuous bushwalk. It’s a good deal considering the photos and memories you’ll take home.
• What’s missing: You need to bring your own lunch, bottled water, and snacks as none are provided—so plan accordingly.
• Group size: The tour is capped at 24 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and opportunities for guides to answer questions.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

The reviews point out that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often adding local stories that make the trip more memorable. For example, one guest appreciated the local information and well worth the trip, suggesting the guides’ insights elevate the experience.

Travelers have also highlighted the value of the self-guided exploration at Hazards Beach—taking time to relax or walk further is recommended if you want to make the most of your visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers who want a scenic, relaxed outing without the physical effort of a full hike. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a comfortable pace and enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides.

It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a hassle-free way to see one of Tasmania’s most iconic spots with plenty of time to relax and explore at their leisure.

If you’re after a more active adventure involving longer hikes or guided food and wine tastings, this may not be the best fit. But for those seeking a balanced blend of scenic cruising, light bushwalking, and free time, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

The Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour offers a beautiful and accessible way to enjoy Tasmania’s coastal jewel. Its combination of scenic boat rides, gentle bushwalks, and free time on Hazards Beach makes it stand out for travelers who want both comfort and authenticity.

The guides receive praise for their local knowledge and friendly approach, adding value beyond just the sights. The fact that you can choose between a half-day or full-day schedule provides flexibility, making it suitable for different travel plans.

While you’ll need to pack your own refreshments, the overall value for the experience—relaxing, scenic, and informative—is hard to beat. If you prioritize ease of access, expert insights, and time to unwind on Tasmania’s iconic sands, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for a wide range of guests.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise along Great Oyster Bay lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Do I need a Parks Pass?
Yes, a Parks Pass is required to access Freycinet National Park, which is included in the tour requirements.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring your own food, drinks, and beach gear as nothing is provided onboard.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour has fixed start times for the half-day and full-day options, but you can choose based on your schedule.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect stunning coastal views, a gentle bushwalk, time to relax on Hazards Beach, and engaging commentary from guides.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the walk to Wineglass Bay is about 30 minutes and described as gentle, it’s suitable for most, but some may find the bushwalk challenging.

To sum it up, this tour strikes a fine balance between ease and adventure, making it a great choice for those wanting a relaxed yet authentic experience of Tasmania’s famous Wineglass Bay. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, educational insights, or just some time on the beach, it offers excellent value and a memorable day out.