Tasmania’s capital has a way of surprising visitors. Hobart feels both historic and modern — a city where colonial-era cottages line the harbor, markets buzz with local flavors and wild mountains rise just minutes away. Add in world-class art, a thriving food scene and unforgettable wildlife encounters, and it’s no wonder Hobart has become one of Australia’s most captivating cruise ports.
Whether you’re here for history, nature or food and wine, Hobart shore excursions offer a perfect mix of experiences.
Hobart History, Heritage & Art Tours
Hobart wears its history proudly, from its convict-era sites to its rows of Georgian warehouses. These excursions let you step back in time — and in some cases, add a modern twist.
Hobart Historic Stroll
A guided walking tour is the best way to feel Hobart’s character up close. You’ll wander Franklin Square’s shady oaks, stroll along the waterfront where fishing boats unload their catch and hear stories of the city’s convict past. At Salamanca Place, rows of 19th-century warehouses now house art galleries and cafés — a perfect blend of old and new.
Infamous Convict Site
For a deeper dive into Tasmania’s darker past, visit the World Heritage-listed Cascades Female Factory. Here, you’ll uncover the extraordinary stories of women once imprisoned in this notorious convict site. It’s a sobering but fascinating look into Australia’s colonial history.
MONA Discovery
Hobart isn’t just about the past — it’s also home to one of the world’s most talked-about art museums. The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is eccentric, provocative and unforgettable. Reached by ferry along the Derwent River, MONA showcases everything from ancient artifacts to bold contemporary works. Even if you’re not an art lover, the experience of MONA itself is worth the trip.
Hobart Nature & Wildlife Encounters
Tasmania is known for its wild landscapes and unique animals, and Hobart makes it easy to experience both in a single day.
Richmond & Tassie Devils
This excursion combines wildlife and history. At Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll meet kangaroos, wombats and the iconic Tasmanian devil. Afterward, wander the Georgian village of Richmond, with its stone bridge, heritage buildings and boutique shops. It’s a charming mix of culture and conservation.
Tasmania Coastal Wilderness Cruise
For something adventurous, hop aboard a high-speed boat and head out along the Derwent River into Storm Bay. You’ll pass lighthouses, rugged cliffs and secluded islands while seabirds wheel overhead. It’s a thrilling way to see Hobart’s coastline and feel the raw power of the Southern Ocean.
Hobart Food & Wine Tours
Tasmania has built a reputation as a foodie paradise, and Hobart’s excursions prove why. From fresh oysters to boutique wineries, you’ll taste the island’s bounty at its source.
Oysters & Wine
Few things capture Tasmania better than sipping local wine while tasting freshly-shucked oysters. At Barilla Bay Oyster Farm, you’ll learn how oysters are harvested before trying them yourself. Pair that with a visit to Meadowbank Winery in the Coal River Valley and you’ve got an indulgent day in the Tasmanian countryside.
Hobart Countryside & Winery
This well-rounded excursion takes you to Richmond — a former convict village filled with Georgian charm — and then to a Coal River Valley winery for tastings. Along the way, you’ll also stop at Runnymede House, once the home of a 19th-century whaling captain. It’s history, scenery and wine all in one.
Hobart Scenic Lookouts & Adventure
Hobart’s setting, at the foot of Mount Wellington, means sweeping views are always close by. These excursions highlight the city from different perspectives.
Hobart by Helicopter
For a completely different perspective, soar above the city on a 20-minute helicopter ride. From the air, you’ll spot the Tasman Bridge, Seven Mile Beach and Mount Wellington towering over the harbor. The flight even offers a bird’s-eye view of your ship docked in port.
The Beauty of Tasmania Scenic Flight
If you want to go bigger, a 60-minute flight takes you beyond Hobart to Tasmania’s dramatic eastern coastline. You’ll see sea cliffs nearly 1,000 feet tall, the rugged Tasman Peninsula and the course of the famous Sydney to Hobart yacht race. It’s one of the most spectacular ways to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.
Choose Your Hobart, Tasmania Shore Excursion
Excursions in Hobart, Tasmania include historic walking tours, MONA art museum visits, wine and oyster tastings, wildlife encounters with Tasmanian devils and scenic flights or cruises along the coast. Whether you’re wandering through convict-era streets, sipping cool-climate wines or gliding past cliffs and lighthouses, Hobart’s mix of culture, cuisine and wild beauty makes it a port you’ll never forget.
FAQs: Visiting Hobart
1. What are the best shore excursions in Hobart, Tasmania?
The best Hobart shore excursions include visiting MONA, touring Richmond village, tasting oysters and wine, meeting Tasmanian devils and taking scenic flights or cruises.
2. Can you see Tasmanian devils in Hobart?
Yes, you can see Tasmanian devils near Hobart at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Many excursions include a visit here, along with other native animals like kangaroos and wombats.
3. Is MONA worth visiting on a shore excursion?
Yes, MONA is worth visiting on a shore excursion. It’s one of Australia’s most unique museums, with a provocative collection and stunning setting reached by ferry on the Derwent River.
4. Is Hobart a cruise port in Australia?
Yes. Hobart is a major cruise port in Tasmania, welcoming ships right into the heart of the city. From the pier, it’s easy to join excursions to historic sites, wineries, museums and wildlife sanctuaries.
5. What can you do in Hobart for a day from a cruise ship?
On a one-day cruise stop in Hobart, you can explore the city’s Art Deco waterfront, visit MONA by ferry, sample Tasmanian wine and oysters, see Tasmanian devils or take a wilderness cruise along the coast.
6. Is Hobart worth visiting on a cruise?
Yes. Hobart is considered one of Australia’s most rewarding cruise ports, offering a mix of convict-era history, world-class food and wine, unique wildlife and stunning scenery all within easy reach of the ship.