Bruny Island day trips: plan your adventure from Hobart
Escape to Bruny Island-Tasmania’s coastal gem-on a day trip from Hobart. Discover dramatic lookouts, taste farm-fresh produce, and spot local wildlife. Whether you’re after a relaxing foodie escape or a wild adventure, Bruny Island day tours pack the best of the island into one unforgettable day.
Top things to do on your Bruny Island day trip
The Neck Lookout
Snap panoramic views over North and South Bruny.
Your guide to choosing the perfect Bruny Island day trip
Departures from Hobart or Kettering: Most tours offer return transfers from Hobart—perfect for visitors without a car. Self-drivers can go for tours that start at Kettering or Adventure Bay, and have more time and schedule flexibility.
Guided bus tours vs wilderness cruises: Guided bus tours will take you to Bruny Island’s top inland and coastal attractions, including local tastings and The Neck. Choose a wilderness cruise for 3 hours on the water exploring caves, sea stacks, and seal colonies—ideal for nature and wildlife lovers.
Foodie experiences vs scenic walks: Food-focused tours include tastings of local produce.Scenic itineraries include lookouts, short walks, and beach stops, making them perfect for photographers and hikers. Guided tours start at AU$159 and all inclusive tours with tastings or nature walks will cost you AU$165.
Small group tours and family-friendly options: All tours are conducted in small groups for a more relaxed, personal experience. Some itineraries are also child-friendly with shorter stops, wildlife encounters, and beach time.
Find the right Bruny Island tour ticket for you
Families with kids
Duration: 8–10 hours
Why choose this? These tours are designed to keep the whole family engaged, with wildlife spotting, easy coastal walks, and child-friendly stops. Expect hassle-free travel and flexible itineraries that cater to all ages.
Recommended tickets:
Full-day Bruny Island sightseeing tour (food tastings and lighthouse entry)
Full-day bus tour with Eco Wilderness cruise tour
Couples and first-time visitors
Duration: 9 hours
Why choose this? Perfect for a romantic escape or a first-time visit, these tours showcase Bruny Island’s best views, local flavors, and scenic stops, creating lasting memories.
Recommended tickets:
Full-day guided tour with gourmet food
Bruny Island full-day guided tour
Nature and wildlife lovers
Duration: 8–10 hours
Why choose this? Ideal for those who crave wilderness exploration and close encounters with wildlife. Experience dramatic coastlines and abundant marine life on high-speed cruises.
Recommended tickets:
3-hour Bruny Island wilderness cruise
Bruny Island full-day adventure with nature trails and food tastings
Plan your Bruny Island day trip itinerary
Ferry departures: The ferry operates daily from Kettering to Roberts Point, with crossings every 20–30 minutes. Tours start early, with departures around 7am from Hobart. Ferry transfers are included for day trips, which can last between 4–6 hours, with some extending up to 10 hours.
Attraction hours: Key sites like Cape Bruny Lighthouse and The Neck are best visited during daylight hours.
Best time to visit
Summer (December–February): Warm weather and with more wildlife activity, including penguin sightings.
Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May): Mild temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for a relaxed experience.
By car: From Hobart, you can drive approximately 45 minutes south to the Kettering ferry terminal for the 15–20 minute ferry to Bruny Island. It is a 40-minute drive south to the visitor center at 1005 Adventure Bay Road.
By guided tour: Many operators offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services from Hobart, including ferry transfers.
Self-drive tips: Ensure your rental car is permitted on ferries. Roads on Bruny Island are well-marked; driving between major attractions typically takes 10–15 minutes.
Photography: Permitted in most areas; however, be mindful of flash photography around wildlife.
Restrooms: Available at major stops, including Adventure Bay and The Neck.
Baggage: Pack light as large bags may not be permitted during the day tours.
Attire: Dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes. Weather can change quickly, so waterproof gear will be handy.
Accessibility: Some areas may have limited wheelchair access. Check in advance about your specific accessibility needs.
Arrive 30–45 minutes early at Kettering ferry terminal to avoid peak hour delays.
Pack a light waterproof jacket and sun protection, as weather can change quickly.
Wear closed, grippy shoes for walks to The Neck, the lighthouse, and bush tracks.
Download maps and tour info beforehand due to unstable mobile reception.
Keep some local currency or contactless payment for cafes and local stalls.
The Island Retreat: Features spacious rooms and gourmet dining.
Bruny Island Inn: Comfortable rooms near key attractions.
Seaspray Motel: Modern amenities with easy access to ferry and tours.
Bruny Backpackers: Hostel with communal facilities.
Local B&Bs: Family-run establishments offering home-cooked breakfasts.
Frequently asked questions about Bruny Island Day trips
Most full-day trips run between 9 to 10 hours, including travel and stops.
Yes, you can drive to Kettering and take the ferry. Many tours start at Adventure Bay.
Yes, though it’s better for children aged 4 and above. Life jackets are provided and crew are trained in safety.
Some areas, such as The Neck Lookout and Cape Bruny Lighthouse have uneven paths or stairs, but many tours and facilities offer wheelchair-accessible options.
Coverage can be patchy in remote areas. Telstra offers the best signal—download maps or key info before departure.
Most guided tours do not allow pets. If self-driving, pets are permitted on the ferry but must remain in your vehicle.
Yes, tours operate year-round, but some outdoor activities may be modified or canceled during storms or high winds.
Expect moderate walking at stops like The Neck, Adventure Bay, and the lighthouse. Most tours accommodate different fitness levels.
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Bruny Island Day Trips
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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.
Only tour with Cape Bruny Lighthouse access—now with 10% off!
Great for: Couples, food lovers, and small groups who want to visit Cape Bruny Lighthouse and sample local oysters, cheeses, and fresh bread right by the sea.
Everything you get: Guided tour of Cape Bruny Lighthouse, beachside stops for oyster and cheese tastings, and lunch at a coastal restaurant.
Why choose this: Get exclusive lighthouse access and hands-on food tastings, plus 5% off when you book.
Inclusions
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Full-day tour of Bruny Island
Round-trip hotel transfers from Hobart
English-speaking guide
Small group of up to 20 people
Cape Bruny Lighthouse entry and tour
Morning tea with cheese, oysters, & freshly-baked bread
Lunch
Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Tastings at the chocolate and honey shop
Ferry and South Bruny National Park fees
Exclusions
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Hound Tooth Whiskey sample (available at an extra cost when open)
7 to 7:25am: Pick up from Hobart
8am: Arrive at Kettering and take ferry to Bruny Island
8:45 to 1pm: Bruny Island tour:
Neck Wildlife Reserve
Honey farm
Adventure Bay
Resolution Creek
Two Tree Point
Morning tastings on the beach
Drive through rainforest & foothills
White wallaby search
Cape Bruny Lighthouse
1pm: Lunch
Chocolate & fudge tastings
The Neck Lookout
The Bread Fridge
4pm: Return by ferry
5pm: Transfer to Hobart
Tip: If alcoholic chocolates are your thing, try the delectable whiskey fudge bites to have your mind blown away.
All dietary preferences can be accommodated in this tour.
This tour is not recommended for children aged 2 and under.
Children aged 5 and under cannot participate in the Cape Bruny Lighthouse tour but can walk inside at the base under the supervision of an adult.
Guide dogs are welcome on this adventure.
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.
Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the rare albino wallabies. These wallabies are unique to Bruny Island and have a genetic defect that turns their fur entirely white.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 20 people.
This experience is suitable for participants with moderate fitness levels.
The itinerary adapts daily to weather and group dynamics. With Bruny Island's abundance of experiences, guides customize each tour to maximize your visit, knowing one day can't cover everything.
Please note that a Parks Pass will be required while on this tour. You can purchase a Parks Pass before your tour here for AU$24. Alternatively, you can purchase a Parks Pass via phone during the day.
Inclusions
#
Full-day tour of Bruny Island from Hobart
English-speaking guide
Small group of up to 20 people
Round-trip Hobart CBD hotel transfers by AC vehicle
Round-trip ferry transfers to Bruny Island from Kettering
Lunch including oysters and main meal (see menu here)
2 drinks (wine, beer, cider, or juice) with lunch
Two Tree Point beach walk
Visit to The Neck Lookout
Mavista rainforest walk
Tastings of cheeses, freshly shucked oysters, handmade fudge, local honey
Entry to HIBA English and Native Gardens
Tip: Try Bruny Island’s famous artisan cheeses paired with the island’s local honey for an unforgettable flavor combination.
This experience is wheelchair accessible but do note that you will be entering and exiting the vehicle several times during the day.
This activity can accommodate special dietary requirements such as allergies, gluten intolerance, vegetarian diets, or other dietary needs.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
2-hour guided hike along Cape Queen Elizabeth’s coastal trail with tastings.
Great for: Active travelers seeking a focused hike on a trail known for unique coastal rock formations and native flora.
Everything you get: Round-trip Hobart transfers, a 2‑hour guided walk on the coastal trail, and stops for local honey, chocolate, and artisan cheese tastings.
Why choose this: The perfect workout-to-reward ratio with a more personalized and intimate connection with Bruny Island, with a curated tasting of the island's finest local flavors.
Inclusions
#
Full-day tour of Bruny Island from Hobart
Round-trip transfers from Hobart
Round-trip ferry transfers from Kettering
English-speaking guide
Small group of up to 20 people
2-hour Cape Queen Elizabeth Trail walk
Walk to Miles Beach via Mars Bluff
Two Tree Point beach walk
Visit to The Neck Lookout
Natural honey tasting at Bruny Island Honey
Cellar door tastings at Bruny Island Cheese Co.
Visit to Get Shucked Oyster Farm
Visit to Bruny Island Chocolate Company
Exclusions
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Lunch (BYO or purchase on the island)
Any tastings not specifically listed
National Park fees
Tip: If you visit during low tide, be sure to walk around the stunning Mars Bluff Arch and enjoy the view framed by this natural window—it’s a perfect photo op!
Safety is a priority. So, this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years.
This experience is suitable for guests with a good level of general fitness and mobility.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 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.
3 hr. - 10 hr.
Guided Tours
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[Headout Exclusive 10% Off] From Hobart: Bruny Island Full-Day Guided Tour + Lighthouse, Lunch & Local Tastings
Only tour with Cape Bruny Lighthouse access—now with 10% off!
Great for: Couples, food lovers, and small groups who want to visit Cape Bruny Lighthouse and sample local oysters, cheeses, and fresh bread right by the sea.
Everything you get: Guided tour of Cape Bruny Lighthouse, beachside stops for oyster and cheese tastings, and lunch at a coastal restaurant.
Why choose this: Get exclusive lighthouse access and hands-on food tastings, plus 5% off when you book.
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
Day Trips
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From Hobart: Bruny Island Full-Day Guided Tour
Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the rare albino wallabies. These wallabies are unique to Bruny Island and have a genetic defect that turns their fur entirely white.
This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 20 people.
This experience is suitable for participants with moderate fitness levels.
The itinerary adapts daily to weather and group dynamics. With Bruny Island's abundance of experiences, guides customize each tour to maximize your visit, knowing one day can't cover everything.
Please note that a Parks Pass will be required while on this tour. You can purchase a Parks Pass before your tour here for AU$24. Alternatively, you can purchase a Parks Pass via phone during the day.
From Hobart: Bruny Island Full-Day Guided Tour + Nature Walk & Gourmet Tastings
2-hour guided hike along Cape Queen Elizabeth’s coastal trail with tastings.
Great for: Active travelers seeking a focused hike on a trail known for unique coastal rock formations and native flora.
Everything you get: Round-trip Hobart transfers, a 2‑hour guided walk on the coastal trail, and stops for local honey, chocolate, and artisan cheese tastings.
Why choose this: The perfect workout-to-reward ratio with a more personalized and intimate connection with Bruny Island, with a curated tasting of the island's finest local flavors.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 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.
Transfers available
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.