Hobart: Historic Lunch Cruise

Hobart: Historic Lunch Cruise

Imagine cruising along the Derwent River with the wind gently in your hair, passing iconic sights like the Tasman Bridge and the historic Salamanca Place. For just $43 per person, you can spend about 90 minutes on the water, enjoying a live commentary from your captain and a tasty one-course meal onboard. Starting from Murray Street Pier, this tour offers an easy way to see parts of Hobart you might miss from land, all while relaxing and enjoying the views.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of sightseeing and good food—it’s a rare treat to get both at a reasonable price. The captain’s engaging commentary makes the journey informative and entertaining, especially if you’re interested in Hobart’s geography and history. Plus, the comfortable boat and laid-back pace mean you can unwind while soaking in the scenery.

One thing to consider is that it’s not suited for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users. The tour is relatively short and involves some boat access limitations, so if you’re looking for a full-on adventure or a more active day, this might not be the best fit. However, if your goal is to enjoy a peaceful, scenic cruise with a delicious meal and good company, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed introduction to Hobart’s harbor, enjoy good food, and appreciate friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited for those seeking a family-friendly outing or a romantic escape with a focus on comfort and local scenery.

Key Points

• Scenic routes include Battery Point, Sandy Bay, and crossing the Derwent River.
• Insightful commentary from the captain enhances the experience with facts and stories.
• Tasty, simple lunch options are included, offering good value for the price.
• Duration of 1.5 hours makes it an easy addition to your day without feeling long or rushed.
• Great reviews highlight the friendly crew, quality of food, and interesting sights.
• Limitations for travelers with mobility impairments should be noted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hobart: Historic Lunch Cruise

If you’re visiting Hobart and want a way to see the city from a different perspective, this cruise offers a gentle, scenic journey on the Derwent River. Starting from the centrally located Murray Street Pier, the cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it an ideal short activity if you’re short on time or want a relaxing break from walking.

The Itinerary and Sights

From the moment your boat pulls away from the pier, you’re treated to views of Battery Point, a charming historic neighborhood, and Sandy Bay, known for its affluent homes and lovely beaches. Your guide, or captain, shares stories and details about these areas, making the sights come alive.

Passing the oldest casino in Australia, the Wrest Point Casino, the cruise then crosses the Derwent River to the Eastern Shore, Bellerive, and Kangaroo Bluff. All these spots have stories to tell—whether about Hobart’s maritime history, local legends, or natural beauty. Passing under the Tasman Bridge is a highlight, offering a unique vantage point that you’d miss from land.

On the way back, you’ll cruise past Royal Botanic Garden and Government House, giving you a glimpse of Hobart’s lush greenery and historic architecture from the water. The captain’s commentary makes these moments more meaningful, turning a simple boat ride into a mini-lecture on the city’s landscape and history.

The Experience Onboard

The boat itself is described as stable and comfortable, which is a big plus, especially for those prone to seasickness. Reviews mention that the sailing is smooth, and even those usually affected by seasickness report feeling fine, thanks to the boat’s design and the calm waters.

The lunch is a highlight for many. Options include steak, crumbed fish, chicken schnitzel, or a vegetarian patty. Reviews consistently praise the freshness and quality of the food, with some diners mentioning their meals as “delicious” or “excellent value.” For kids aged 6-12, options include crumbed fish or chicken schnitzel, making it family-friendly.

Many travelers appreciate the generous portions and the fact that drinks are sold on board, allowing you to relax with a cold beverage while taking in the scenery. Some mention the small meal size but note that it’s more than enough for a cruise of this length.

The Captains and Guides

What truly makes a difference is the captain’s engaging and informative commentary. Several reviews highlight the captain’s humor, knowledge, and friendly demeanor, which keeps the tour lively and interesting. Our sample traveler, Karl, called the captain “very informative,” while others noted the humorous and entertaining narration.

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Value for Money

At $43 per person, this cruise is considered excellent value. For the price, you get a scenic trip, a well-prepared meal, and the comfort of a guided experience—a combination that many reviewers feel is hard to beat for such a short activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed way to see Hobart’s harbor without much physical effort. It’s ideal for those interested in local sights and history, or anyone wanting a peaceful break in their busy sightseeing schedule.

Practical Details

Meeting Point: You need to arrive 15 minutes early at the white and grey wooden cabin at Murray Street Pier. Remember to exchange your voucher before boarding.

Duration: The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon, making it a great post-lunch activity or a gentle way to start the evening.

Inclusions: The one-course lunch (choice of steak, fish, chicken, or veggie) and live commentary are included in the ticket price.

Exclusions: Hotel pickup or drop-off is not included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Accessibility: It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so if this is a concern, you might want to consider other options.

Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows flexibility should your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, enjoyable way to see some of Hobart’s most picturesque water views, the Hobart: Historic Lunch Cruise offers a delightful balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and good food. It’s an experience that combines the relaxed pace of a boat ride with the chance to learn about Hobart’s neighborhoods, landmarks, and history—all while enjoying a tasty meal.

For travelers who appreciate friendly guides, stunning vistas, and value for money, this cruise is a sure bet. It’s especially fitting for those who prefer a laid-back, family-friendly outing or want a calm introduction to Hobart’s waterfront. If you’re after a quick, scenic, and informative experience that leaves you feeling satisfied and relaxed, this is a great choice.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Is the lunch suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, a vegetarian patty is available as part of the meal options.

What should I wear?
Dress casually and comfortably. Layering is a good idea, especially if it’s windy or cooler in the late afternoon.

Can I bring drinks onboard?
You can purchase drinks during the cruise, as they are sold on board. Bringing your own alcohol is not mentioned as permitted.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6-12 can enjoy kid-friendly meal options like crumbed fish or chicken schnitzel.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise is generally not operated in severe weather conditions. You might be able to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund if the weather prevents sailing.

Are there any mobility restrictions?
Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to access limitations.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for the white and grey wooden cabin at Murray Street Pier and arrive about 15 minutes early to exchange your voucher and get settled.

In sum, this Hobart: Historic Lunch Cruise offers a well-rounded slice of the city’s waterfront, combining scenic views, engaging commentary, and a satisfying meal—all at a price that makes it accessible. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, it’s a gentle way to take in Hobart’s beauty without breaking a sweat.

You can check availability for your dates here: