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If you’re heading to Burnie on a cruise ship and looking for a well-organized way to see some of Tasmania’s highlights, this Discovering Tasmania tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and local charm. Operated by eGuide Tasmania—an award-winning provider—this five-hour experience is designed to be hassle-free and packed with authentic sights. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it manages to pack in enough to give you a real taste of what Tasmania has to offer.
Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the variety of stops—ranging from lush gardens to wildlife parks—and the knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with local insights. The tour’s emphasis on wildlife and natural scenery makes it ideal for nature lovers or those wanting a gentle introduction to Tasmania’s outdoors. One possible consideration is the limited time at each stop, which might leave some wanting more exploration. Still, with a flexible schedule and backup vehicle, the tour prioritizes your timely return to the ship. It’s best suited for cruise guests who want a comprehensive, stress-free taste of Tasmania without missing their ship’s departure, especially if you value seeing wildlife and scenic vistas.
Key Points
- Well-rounded itinerary combining gardens, wildlife, and viewpoints
- Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary and local insights
- Good value for money at around $143 per person, including entrance fees
- Flexible timing and backup transport ensure you don’t miss your ship
- Authentic experiences like wildlife encounters and stunning vistas
- Ideal for cruise passengers seeking a convenient, enjoyable overview of Tasmania
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Timing
The tour begins at 13 Wilmot St in Burnie, with the operator customizing the start time to fit your ship’s schedule. This flexibility is a big plus, reducing stress for travelers with tight cruise timelines. The total activity lasts about 5 hours 15 minutes, including travel time between stops, which means you get a full—and well-paced—taste of Tasmania’s highlights.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens
Our first stop is a hidden botanical gem, just twenty minutes from Burnie. Covering 11 hectares, these gardens showcase a stunning collection of rhododendrons, set amid towering eucalypt trees and lush ferns. The experience is primarily visual—bright blooms against rich green foliage—and sensory, with birdsong filling the air. Walking around, you’ll notice how the gardens blend natural beauty with meticulous planting, offering great photo opportunities. The gardens are included in the price, so it’s a solid value, especially since many travelers comment on the beauty and tranquility of this spot.
Elizabeth_F called it a “brilliant trip” and appreciated learning about Tasmania along the way, praising the “stunning waterfalls” and the mild, easy walks. Such comments highlight how accessible and scenic this stop is, perfect for those who enjoy gentle strolls amidst natural sights.
Wings Wildlife Park
Next, the tour heads inland to the Wings Wildlife Park, a favorite among visitors who want to see Tasmania’s unique animals. You’ll have about 90 minutes at this park, where you can wander at your own pace. The wildlife here is showcased in naturalistic enclosures, with kangaroos, wombats, and Tasmanian devils all on display.
A big perk here is the chance to interact with animals—some tours offer optional encounters, which many reviews mention as a highlight. Visitors like Terrell_S, who called it a “wonderful tour,” appreciated the opportunity to get close to animals like wallabies and see Tasmanian devils up front. The park also emphasizes conservation, giving visitors a chance to learn about efforts to protect Tasmania’s endangered species.
Scenic Views and Photo Stops
On the return journey, the group passes along the coast, enjoying stunning views of the Tasmanian landscape. The George Woodhouse Lookout offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and ocean—perfect for a quick photo and a moment to soak in the scenery.
Before heading back to Burnie, there’s a stop at the Upper Burnie Lookout—another excellent vantage point for capturing Tasmania’s rugged beauty. The mix of mountains, coastline, and lush greenery provides many photo opportunities, which many travelers find worth the brief stop.
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Comfort and Flexibility
The tour guarantees “DO NOT WORRY WE WILL GET YOU BACK ON TIME”, with backup vehicles on standby. This reassurance is crucial for cruise travelers who need to stay punctual. The tour operator also adjusts start times to fit your cruise schedule, so you won’t feel rushed or worried about missing your ship.
Price and Value
At $143.45 per person, this tour offers good value, considering it includes entrance fees and guided commentary. The stops are well-chosen to maximize scenic and wildlife experiences without being overly long or tiring. As one review noted, it’s “brilliant value”, especially given the variety of experiences packed into the five hours.
What the Reviews Say
The glowing reviews echo what makes this tour appealing. Elizabeth_F praised the “fantastic guide Howard” and the “beautiful scenery”, saying it was a “very easy” way to see Tasmania’s highlights. Others appreciated the “great customer service”, highlighting how the team handled scheduling and unexpected issues with professionalism, ensuring no one missed their ship.
Rita_P enjoyed the “very informative” nature of the tour, especially the information shared about the animals and their care—adding an educational layer to the wildlife encounter. These insights make the experience more meaningful, especially for travelers interested in conservation and local ecosystems.
Practical Details
- Meeting Point: 13 Wilmot St, Burnie
- Duration: About 5 hours 15 minutes, including stops and travel
- Group Size: Up to 50 travelers, allowing for a lively, social atmosphere
- Inclusions: All entrance fees and a mobile ticket system for ease
- Best for: Cruise passengers, wildlife enthusiasts, garden lovers, or those seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Tasmania’s outdoors
Final Thoughts
This Burnie shore excursion balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance. It’s clear that the tour is designed to give travelers a seamless, enjoyable experience—without the stress of planning or rushing. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Tasmania’s natural treasures, from its lush gardens to its unique animals, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.
While the tour doesn’t go very deep into Tasmania’s history or culture, it compensates with authentic outdoor experiences and stunning landscapes. The flexibility and backup plans make it especially reliable for cruise travelers needing a worry-free day.
If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed way to see Tasmania’s wildlife, gardens, and scenic views in a limited time, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who want a comfortable, guided overview that leaves plenty of room for enjoyment and discovery.
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Discovering Tasmania: Burnie Shore Excursion
“Brilliant trip and our guide Howard was fantastic. The scenery of Burnley is so beautiful Just driving through and through Howard, we learned a lot…”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The total tour lasts approximately 5 hours 15 minutes, including all stops and travel time between locations.
What stops are included?
You’ll visit the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens, explore wildlife at Wings Wildlife Park, and enjoy scenic viewpoints at George Woodhouse and Upper Burnie Lookout.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission tickets are included in the tour price, providing good value.
Is there a guide?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide (Howard was praised in reviews) accompanies the tour, offering insights and local information.
Can the tour timings be adjusted?
Absolutely. The operator adjusts start times based on your ship’s schedule, ensuring you return on time.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops are generally accessible and family-friendly.
What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, fostering a lively atmosphere without feeling crowded.
Is transportation comfortable?
While specific vehicle details aren’t provided, the bus is reliable, with backup options available to stay on schedule.
Discovering Tasmania from Burnie offers an accessible and enjoyable way to connect with the island’s natural beauty. With scenic vistas, engaging wildlife encounters, and expert guides, this tour strikes a fine balance of value and authenticity—perfect for cruise visitors eager to see Tasmania’s best without the fuss.