Explore Bruny Island on a cruise: Sea cliffs, wildlife & wild adventure
Bruny Island is a blend of rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and thriving marine life. The best way to explore it? A cruise along its untamed shores. Glide past blowholes, explore deep-sea caves, spot dolphins and fur seals, and take in the island’s beautiful shoreline. With options from quick wilderness cruises to full-day tours that include a delicious lunch, there’s something for every kind of explorer. Read on to discover top sights, cruise types, and tips to plan your visit.
Custom-built for Bruny’s coast, Pennicott’s manoeuvrable 12.5m vessels feature tiered seating and triple outboards to cruise into caves and near towering cliffs.
Meet the locals
Spot fur seals lounging on rocks, dolphins playing in the waves, and seabirds gliding overhead. In the right season, you might even see whales breaching.
Nature’s fireworks
Watch Breathing Rock shoot seawater skyward as waves crash in—a dramatic and unpredictable ocean blowhole in action.
Enter the sea caves
Cruise into towering sea caves carved by the ocean. These echoing caverns offer a haunting glimpse into the island’s wild side.
Cruise through the gap
Glide between towering cliffs and ‘The Monument,’ where the Tasman Sea and Southern Ocean meet in a spectacular, wave-thundering collision.
Tips to choose the right Bruny Island cruise
Budget: Are you**** on a tighter budget or planning to stay overnight on Bruny? The cruise-only option is the most affordable. It covers just the 3-hour wilderness cruise, so you’ll need to organise your own transport and meals, but it leaves the rest of your day free to explore at your own pace.
Convenience: Prefer everything taken care of? The full-day tour from Hobart is the most seamless option. It includes hotel pickup, ferry tickets, overland transport, morning tea, lunch, and the cruise—all in one booking.
Flexibility: Want to customise your day? Choose the cruise-only or Kettering bus pickup options. These give you more freedom to explore Bruny Island before or after the cruise. Great for independent travellers, self-drivers, or those staying on the island.
Meals: Only the full-day tour includes meals like a morning tea and a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Cruise-only and Kettering transfer options do not include food, so plan accordingly.
Travelling with family or older guests: For first-timers, families with kids, or older travellers, the full-day tour offers the most comfort and ease, where everything is pre-arranged so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
All your Bruny Island cruise options
Wilderness cruise
Why choose this experience?
Budget-friendly adventure: Enjoy the signature cruise experience at a value-for-money price that’s perfect for travellers short on time.
Explore at your own pace: Self-drive to Adventure Bay and cruise before or after discovering Bruny Island’s beaches, lookouts, and local produce on your own.
All-day, all-included: From hotel pickup in Hobart to round-trip ferry crossings, guided bus tours, and the wilderness cruise—everything’s taken care of.
Tasmanian tastes & tales: Enjoy morning tea, a local lunch, and fascinating stories from your guide as you explore Bruny’s wild coast and scenic highlights.
Price: From AU$275
Duration: 10 hours
Perfect for: First-time visitors, families, and travellers who prefer a relaxed, fully-guided experience with everything taken care of.
Recommended experience:
Full-day bus tour from Hobart with wilderness cruise
Plan your Bruny Island cruise
Wilderness cruises: 11am, so if you're self-driving, aim to be at Adventure Bay well in advance for check-in.
Getting to Kettering from Hobart: Public transport is available via Metro Tasmania’s Line 415 bus, which connects Hobart to Kettering.
Ferry from Kettering to Bruny Island: Daily, from 6:10am on weekdays and 6:50am on weekends. Last ferry at 7pm.
Return ferry from Bruny Island: Daily, from 6:30am on weekdays and 7:10am on weekends. Last ferry at 7:15pm.
Full-day tours from Hobart include hotel transfers and usually depart at 7:45am. Check your voucher for your exact pickup time and location. The tour runs for around 10 hours, giving you a full day to explore Bruny Island and enjoy the cruise.
Best time to visit
Summer (December to February): Warm days, calm seas, and abundant wildlife make this the best time to visit Bruny Island. Just be sure to book ahead, as this is peak season.
Autumn (March to May): Cooler and quieter, autumn brings a relaxed vibe and golden hues to the landscape. It’s a great time for peaceful walks, photography, and avoiding summer crowds.
Winter (June to August): The chill sets in, but so do the whales! This season offers the best chance to spot humpback and southern right whales migrating past the coastline.
Spring (September to November): Crisp air and colourful wildflowers signal the start of nesting season for seabirds. The island comes alive with fresh energy, making it perfect for nature lovers.
To Kettering
Ferry boarding point: Kettering Ferry Terminal Tasmania, Ferry Rd, Kettering TAS 7155, Australia
By car: Drive from Hobart to the Kettering ferry terminal—it takes about 40 minutes. Paid parking is available near the terminal if you’re not taking your vehicle across. Be sure to arrive early during peak times.
By bus: Metro Tasmania’s Route 415 connects Hobart City to the Kettering Ferry Terminal, with stops including Macquarie St in the CBD. It's a convenient public transport option if you’re not driving.
Cruise boarding point address: 1005 Adventure Bay Rd, Adventure Bay TAS 7150, Australia
By car: Board the Bruny Island ferry with your vehicle. Once you’ve arrived at Roberts Point, follow the signs for Adventure Bay. It’s a 35-minute drive through the island's interior. Make sure to arrive early, especially during peak season, as the ferry can get busy. Free parking is available near the cruise terminal.
Without a car: If you’re not driving, opt for the full-day tour with wilderness cruise or the wilderness cruise with Kettering bus pickup. Both options include transfers either from Hobart or Kettering, and take care of the ferry and overland transport to Adventure Bay.
The visitor centre is equipped with accessible parking and restrooms, a small gift shop, and a seafood restaurant and café.
The custom-built eco-cruise boats have tiered seating for great views and a roof for sun and spray protection. They're not wheelchair-accessible, but the crew can assist passengers with limited mobility.
The open-sea journey can be bumpy. It's not recommended for pregnant travellers or those with back, neck, or mobility issues.
For safety, all guests must remain seated while the boat is in motion.
Cruises may be cancelled or rescheduled in unsafe weather conditions.
Smoking and drinking alcohol are not permitted onboard.
Adventure Bay Retreat: Luxury self-contained accommodation just minutes from the cruise departure point. Think wildlife at your doorstep, wood fires, and spa baths—ideal for couples and small groups.
Bruny Island Escapes & Hotel Bruny: A great mid-range option offering cabins, cottages, and hotel rooms across Alonnah and Adventure Bay. Some properties include water views, full kitchens, and private decks.
Bruny Island Lodge: A secluded lodge in the island’s interior, ideal for large families or groups. Set among forest and farmland, it’s a tranquil escape with space to explore.
Captain Cook Holiday Park: Right in Adventure Bay and perfect for families, this laid-back holiday park offers cabins and powered sites within walking distance of the beach and cruise terminal.
Frequently asked questions about Bruny Island cruises
Yes, children of all ages are welcome on the cruise. Life jackets are provided, and the boat is designed for comfort and safety. It’s a fun and educational experience for curious young explorers!
It’s best to dress in warm layers, as it can get windy on the water, even in summer. A waterproof or windproof jacket is highly recommended. Flat, enclosed shoes are also ideal for the boat ride.
Cruises run in most weather conditions, but departures may be cancelled or delayed if the sea is too rough or visibility is poor. In such cases, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a refund.
While light refreshments are provided on full-day tours, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and water on board the cruise. Alcohol is not permitted.
Storage is limited on the boat, so it’s best to only bring what you need. For larger bags or non-essentials, it's recommended to leave them in your car or accommodation.
Spots on the wilderness cruise fill up quickly, especially in summer. Booking at least a few days in advance is strongly advised, and even earlier during peak holiday periods.
The cruise travels along an open coastline, so the ride can get bumpy at times. If you're sensitive to motion, consider taking sea sickness tablets beforehand and sitting toward the rear of the boat for a smoother ride.
Bruny Island ferries operate daily, with departures from Kettering approximately every 20–30 minutes between 6:10am and 7pm on weekdays. On weekends, the first ferry departs at 6:50am. The crossing takes about 15–20 minutes. No booking is required, but arriving at least 20 minutes before departure is recommended.
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Bruny Island Cruises
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3-hour yellow boat adventure along rugged Tasmanian shores.
Great for: Solo adventurers and photography fans eager to capture real marine life and natural rock formations.
Everything you get: 3-hour eco-cruise; with upgrades: Kettering ferry transfers; or a full-day tour with an island bus tour, morning tea, lunch, and a guide.
Why choose this: See playful dolphins, lounging seals, and the Breathing Rock blowhole—visible only from the sea—with hassle-free, comfortable tour options.
Inclusions
#
3-hour wilderness cruise off Bruny Island
Live commentary
Round-trip ferry transfers from Kettering (if option selected)
Full-day tour of Bruny Island (if option selected)
Local guide (if option selected)
Bruny Island bus tour (if option selected)
Morning tea (if option selected)
Tasmanian lunch (if option selected)
Tip: If staying overnight on Bruny Island, head to The Neck lookout at dusk to spot fairy penguins as they come ashore.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
The morning tea consists of freshly baked blueberry muffins and a hot or cold drink. Lunch includes premium fish and chips, homemade pumpkin soup, and a gourmet salad roll with a choice of Tasmanian Salmon or local ham. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available upon request.
The ferry from Kettering to Bruny takes about 20 minutes. If you are booking the self-drive cruise, arrange your transport to Bruny Island in time to reach the meeting point.
Getting there: From Hobart, drive 45 minutes south to the Kettering ferry terminal for the 15-20 minute SeaLink ferry to Bruny Island. Arrive 30 minutes early. Once on the island, it's a 40-minute drive south to the visitor center at 1005 Adventure Bay Road.
Please arrive by 8:30am, 15 minutes before the tour starts, to avoid delays.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Full-day Bruny tour with transfers bus sightseeing, a coastal cruise, and Tasmanian lunch.
Great for: Solo travelers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers seeking a day tour that mixes on-land scenic views with a focused coastal cruise.
Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Hobart, ferry from Kettering, bus tour, 3‑hour wilderness cruise, lunch, and morning tea with a guide.
Why choose this: A balanced mix of bus and cruise segments for clear views of local wildlife and coastal features and set stops planned out.
Inclusions
#
Full-day tour of Bruny Island
Round-trip transfers from Hobart
Round-trip ferry transfers from Kettering
40-minute drive to Adventure Bay Wilderness Cruise
English-speaking guide
Tasmanian lunch
3-hour wilderness cruise off Bruny Island
Bruny Island bus tour
Live commentary on cruise
Morning tea
Tip: To elevate your dining experience, pair the premium fish and chips with a crisp Tasmanian cider or white wine (at additional cost) to balance the richness of the seafood.
Buses include storage for collapsible mobility devices, but passengers must be able to climb steps to board as the vehicles are not wheelchair accessible.
The morning tea consists of freshly baked blueberry muffins and a hot or cold drink. Lunch includes premium fish and chips, homemade pumpkin soup, and a gourmet salad roll with a choice of Tasmanian Salmon or local ham. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available upon request.
The ferry from Kettering to Bruny takes about 20 minutes.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Step inside Tasmania’s only lighthouse open for guided tours, perched on dramatic coastal cliffs.
Everything you get: Take a guided tour of the heritage-listed Cape Bruny Lighthouse, with access to the balcony and the prism room. Hear stories from local guides, learn about Tasmania’s maritime history, view original Fresnel lenses, and explore the on-site museum.
Why choose this: Climb the original spiral staircase, enjoy coastal views, and explore the history of Tasmania’s oldest lighthouse still standing, a Bruny Island must-do.
Inclusions
#
Fully guided lighthouse tour
Access to on-site museum, prism room, and lighthouse balcony
Stories from local guides
Viewing of original Fresnel lenses
Exclusions
#
Meals and refreshments
Transfers to Bruny Island
Accommodation
Private or exclusive bookings
What to bring
Dress warmly, especially for evening and night tours as it can get cold.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for walking on gravel and uneven surfaces.
Bring a valid photo ID if requested at the entrance.
Carry your own water and snacks, as meals and refreshments are not included.
Bring a camera for photo opportunities.
What’s not allowed
Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the lighthouse.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the lighthouse.
Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the site.
Accessibility
The experience is not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and uneven terrain.
The climb to the lighthouse and balcony involves a steep walk and a spiral staircase, which may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
Additional information
Self-drive is required to reach Cape Bruny Lighthouse; the last 18 km is a gravel road that can be slippery, so drive with caution.
Tours are subject to staff availability, minimum numbers, and weather conditions.
Parking and amenities are available on site.
Be cautious of nocturnal animals on the roads after dark.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Day Trips
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Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise
3-hour yellow boat adventure along rugged Tasmanian shores.
Great for: Solo adventurers and photography fans eager to capture real marine life and natural rock formations.
Everything you get: 3-hour eco-cruise; with upgrades: Kettering ferry transfers; or a full-day tour with an island bus tour, morning tea, lunch, and a guide.
Why choose this: See playful dolphins, lounging seals, and the Breathing Rock blowhole—visible only from the sea—with hassle-free, comfortable tour options.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
10 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers available
Meals included
Guided Tours
NEW
Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tour
Step inside Tasmania’s only lighthouse open for guided tours, perched on dramatic coastal cliffs.
Everything you get: Take a guided tour of the heritage-listed Cape Bruny Lighthouse, with access to the balcony and the prism room. Hear stories from local guides, learn about Tasmania’s maritime history, view original Fresnel lenses, and explore the on-site museum.
Why choose this: Climb the original spiral staircase, enjoy coastal views, and explore the history of Tasmania’s oldest lighthouse still standing, a Bruny Island must-do.
