Coles Bay is a stunning spot on Tasmania’s east coast, famous for its crystal-clear waters and iconic Wineglass Bay. It’s a place where you can truly experience the natural beauty of the Freycinet Peninsula from the water. Whether you want a relaxing day spotting dolphins and seals or a luxurious adults-only cruise with wine in hand, Coles Bay has a boat tour for you. We particularly love the Wineglass Bay Cruise with Lunch for its scenic views and onboard dining, and the Shared Cruise and Walking Tour for those wanting a blend of boat trip and outdoor exploration. Each offers a different way to experience this remarkable landscape.
If you’re trying to decide which tour best suits your style and interests, keep reading. This guide will walk you through the top four boat experiences, comparing their highlights, what makes them unique, and who they’re best for.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of boat tours that showcase Wineglass Bay’s breathtaking scenery. From relaxed, wildlife-focused cruises to premium adults-only experiences, there’s something for all. Some tours include onboard meals and drinks, while others combine a cruise with a short bushwalk. For example, the Wineglass Bay Cruise from Coles Bay offers a half-day adventure with opportunities for wildlife viewing and a scenic sail, while the Adults-Only Cruise with Lunch caters to those seeking a more exclusive, refined experience. Let’s explore each in detail.
1. From Coles Bay: Wineglass Bay Cruise with Lunch
This 4.5-hour scenic cruise is a standout for its combination of spectacular views and delicious on-board dining. You’ll glide past Freycinet’s granite cliffs, sea caves, and hidden coves, all while keeping an eye out for dolphins, seals, penguins, and even migrating whales. The highlight, of course, is the view of Wineglass Bay itself—a picture-perfect crescent of white sand framed by rugged cliffs.
What makes this trip special is the onboard Ploughman’s style lunch, which you can enjoy while soaking in the scenery. Drinks are available for purchase from the bar, making it a relaxing and indulgent experience. The commentary onboard shares stories about the local landmarks, wildlife, and history, adding a layer of context to your cruise.
This tour is ideal for those who want a full sensory experience—scenery, wildlife, and good food—all in one outing. With a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 500 reviews, it’s clear this cruise hits the mark for many travelers.
Bottom Line: A scenic and flavorful way to explore Freycinet’s coast, perfect for those who enjoy wildlife, good food, and comfort.
2. Wineglass Bay Cruise from Coles Bay
For roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, this half-day cruise offers a relaxed way to see Wineglass Bay and the surrounding coastline. The tour takes you across Freycinet National Park’s waters, passing by white-sand beaches and towering sea cliffs. It’s a laid-back, eco-friendly ride with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins, humpback whales (seasonal), and sea eagles.
If you opt for the lunch option, you can enjoy a fresh, seasonal packed lunch onboard. Many reviews praise the crew’s friendliness and the chance to see seal colonies and seabirds. This tour is well-loved for its combination of spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing, making it a good choice for families or couples looking for a relaxed day on the water.
A key feature is the stop at Wineglass Bay itself, where you will glide past the iconic crescent of white sand. Many find this cruise to be the ideal length—long enough to soak in the views but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers wanting a balance of wildlife, scenery, and a laid-back atmosphere.
3. Coles Bay: Wineglass Bay Adults-Only Cruise with Lunch
This premium, adults-only cruise offers a refined experience in Freycinet with a focus on comfort and quality. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a private-style boat trip with stunning water views of the coast and Coles Bay. The cruise includes a ploughman’s lunch, paired with local wine and beers, making it perfect for couples or groups seeking a more exclusive outing.
What sets this cruise apart is its intimate setting—the Sky Lounge offers privacy and a sophisticated ambiance. You’ll still encounter wildlife like penguins, dolphins, and seals, but the focus is on relaxation and enjoyment of the scenery with less crowding. The reviews rave about the quality of the food and drink, as well as the personalized service.
This tour is best suited for adults looking for a luxurious, quiet experience—ideal for anniversaries or special occasions. At a higher price point, it offers exceptional value for those seeking an upscale adventure.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, adults-only cruise perfect for those wanting privacy, good wine, and a peaceful way to experience Wineglass Bay.
4. Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour
This combination tour offers a bit of everything. Starting with a 30-minute cruise along Great Oyster Bay, local guides share stories about the wildlife and history of the area. After the cruise, you’ll disembark at Hazards Beach for a gentle 2 km bushwalk along the Isthmus Track to the iconic Wineglass Bay.
The real draw here is the opportunity to relax on the pristine beach after the walk, with plenty of time for swimming or picnicking. The return involves a coastal transfer back to Coles Bay. The tour is designed for active travelers who enjoy combining boat rides with outdoor activity, making it a flexible option for different fitness levels.
While the reviews are limited, one traveler praised the “local information and the ability to explore the beach,” and noted the convenience of the included return transfer. Keep in mind, a Parks Pass is required for the national park access.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine a scenic cruise with a relaxing bushwalk and beach time.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Coles Bay
Picking the best tour depends on what you value most. If you want a full-day experience with onboard dining and wildlife, the Wineglass Bay Cruise with Lunch is a fantastic pick (link here). For those seeking a shorter, wildlife-focused cruise with natural scenery, the Wineglass Bay Cruise from Coles Bay offers great value.
If a luxury, adults-only experience appeals, the Premium Cruise with Lunch provides intimacy and high-end comfort (link here). And for active travelers looking to blend a boat trip with a short bushwalk and beach time, the Shared Cruise and Walking Tour is ideal.
Consider your budget, interest in wildlife, and whether you prefer relaxing dining experiences or adventure-packed outings. Booking early, especially during peak season, helps ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Coles Bay offers a versatile array of boat tours and cruises that cater to different tastes. For a scenic, wildlife-rich day, the Wineglass Bay Cruise with Lunch is hard to beat. If you prefer a more exclusive, refined outing, the Adults-Only Cruise excels. Active travelers will appreciate the combination of a cruise and bushwalk, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy the half-day Wildlife and Scenery Tour.
No matter which you choose, these tours provide a memorable way to experience Tasmania’s natural beauty. To ensure your spot, consider booking early—these cruises fill up quickly, especially in the warmer months. Now, all that’s left is to pick your perfect adventure and enjoy the stunning waters of Coles Bay.