Hobart: Moorilla’s Wine + Art at Mona by Boat

Experience Tasmania’s best in a day with this wine and art tour to Mona, combining a scenic ferry ride, world-class museum, and local cuisine.

Hobart: Moorilla’s Wine + Art at Mona by Boat — A Full-Day Journey into Tasmania’s Culture and Flavour

If you’re looking for a way to explore Tasmania’s vibrant art scene and enjoy some of its finest wines, this guided tour from Hobart to Mona might just be your perfect day out. It’s a well-curated experience that balances immersion in the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) with wine tasting, a delicious locally sourced lunch, and a scenic ferry ride that’s worth the trip alone.

What we love about this tour is its seamless combination of high-quality art, tasty food, and a relaxed yet insightful wine experience. The ferry ride from Hobart adds a layer of excitement and offers stunning views of the waterfront, making the entire day feel like a proper Tasmanian adventure. A second highlight is the small group size, limited to just four participants, which means better interaction and personalized attention.

One potential consideration is the cost—at $176 per person, it’s a premium experience. Travelers seeking a budget-friendly outing might find it on the higher side, but the range of experiences packed into one day offers good value, especially if you appreciate art, wine, and good food. This tour works best for those who enjoy leisurely, curated days with an emphasis on quality over quantity.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, thoughtfully crafted excursion that combines Tasmania’s best cultural and culinary offerings, this tour is suited for art lovers, wine enthusiasts, and curious travelers wanting a taste of Hobart’s vibrant scene.

Key Points

  • Unique combination of wine, art, and scenic ferry travel in Tasmania
  • Small group size for personalized insights and a more intimate experience
  • Access to Mona, one of Australia’s largest and most provocative private museums
  • Tasty lunch with locally sourced produce paired with Moorilla wines
  • Flexible afternoon options including more museum exploration, wine tasting, or relaxing on the lawns
  • Cost includes ferry, museum entry, lunch, and guided wine tasting, providing good value for a full day

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The day begins at the Brooke Street Pier in Hobart, where you’ll board a sleek, fast ferry at 10:15 am. This 30-minute boat ride sets the tone, offering gorgeous views of Hobart’s waterfront and a chance to enjoy the open air and fresh sea breeze. Many travelers mention how spectacular the ride is—“the ferry ride was amazing” as one reviewer put it—adding a dash of adventure to the day.

Visiting Mona: Art and Grounds

Once you arrive at Mona, you have around 2.5 hours to explore the museum and its grounds at your own pace. Mona is known for its provocative, thought-provoking collection of artworks that challenge conventional notions. The grounds themselves are equally interesting—combining striking architecture with lush outdoor spaces, perfect for wandering and soaking in the atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the “amazing structure” as well as the variety of art that appeals to many tastes—whether you love or hate what you see.

Lunch at The Source Restaurant

At around 12:30 pm, you’ll sit down for a two-course lunch in The Source Restaurant, the culinary haven of Moorilla. Here, the emphasis is on local, fresh produce paired with Moorilla wines, a perfect match to complement the art-filled morning. Travelers frequently praise the “outstanding” quality of the meal, noting that the food is both delicious and visually appealing. The restaurant’s setting offers lovely views and a relaxed vibe, making it more than just a meal—it’s part of the experience.

Guided Wine & Art Exploration

After lunch, it’s time for the Moorilla Deep Dive—a small-group, guided exploration of the winery. Here, you’ll learn about the winery’s history and production process, which adds context to the tasting session that follows. The underground tasting room offers a unique atmosphere for sampling Moorilla’s range of wines. Multiple reviews mention how “the wine tasting was fantastic”, with knowledgeable guides making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

The Afternoon Flexibility

Post-tasting, the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. Options include relaxing with a glass of wine at the bar, exploring the galleries further, or simply lounging on the lawns and taking in the scenery. Many guests appreciate this free time, as it allows for a personalized experience—whether you want more art, a peaceful moment, or a few more sips of wine.

Return to Hobart

The day concludes with the 5 pm ferry ride back to Hobart, giving you a chance to reflect on a full day of art, wine, and stunning views. The return trip is considered smooth and scenic, rounding out the experience nicely.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price of $176 per person might seem steep at first glance, it’s worth considering what’s included. You get a scenic ferry ride, museum entry, a gourmet lunch paired with wine, and a guided wine tasting—all in one package. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more engaging and tailored. Plus, access to Mona—a museum renowned for its bold and diverse art collection—is a highlight that many travelers find memorable.

The tour’s flexibility in the afternoon adds extra value, letting you shape your own experience after the main activities. Whether you linger in the galleries, enjoy more wine, or simply relax outdoors, you’re investing in a curated day designed for genuine enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for art lovers, wine enthusiasts, and curious travelers who appreciate a well-rounded, relaxed day out. If you enjoy guided tours with a small group, high-quality food and drink, and a chance to see one of Australia’s most talked-about museums, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly appealing if you want a combination of culture, scenery, and culinary delight without the hassle of planning multiple separate outings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

  • Book in advance—the small group size fills quickly, and the tour is popular.
  • Bring your ID or passport, as required for check-in and age verification.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—the grounds and museum involve a fair bit of walking.
  • Bring a camera (but no professional gear or tripods allowed), and leave drones and vaping at home.
  • Arrive promptly at Brooke Street Pier for the 10:15 am departure.
  • The tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.
  • Parking is not included, so consider public transport or ride-sharing options for convenience.

FAQs

Is transportation provided between Hobart and Mona?
No, transportation is by the included ferry departing from Brooke Street Pier, so you’ll need to meet at the specified location.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers the ferry ride, museum entry, a two-course lunch with Moorilla wine, and a guided winery tour with tasting.

Can I customize my afternoon?
Yes, after the guided tasting, you’re free to explore more galleries, relax on the lawns, or enjoy additional wine if available.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
It is wheelchair accessible, but you may want to check specific accessibility needs with the provider beforehand.

Do I need to bring my own food or drink?
No, all meals, wine, and transportation are included, so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

How long do I have at Mona?
You’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore the museum and grounds at your leisure.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, plus layers if the weather is changeable. Don’t forget your ID.

Final Thoughts

This Hobart: Moorilla’s Wine + Art at Mona by Boat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s culture, cuisine, and scenic beauty. It combines the best of Hobart’s waterfront, a provocative museum, and the region’s fine wines—all within a day. The small-group format and thoughtful pacing make it a relaxing, engaging outing that suits those eager to experience Tasmania’s unique artistic and vinicultural spirit.

Whether you’re an art aficionado, a wine lover, or simply someone looking for a thoughtfully curated day in Tasmania, this tour delivers a memorable balance of discovery, taste, and scenery. It’s a fantastic way to see Mona without the hassle of planning, and the ferry ride adds an extra thrill that’s hard to beat. Just remember to book early—you won’t want to miss this highlight of any Tasmania trip.