Burnie Shore Excursion: A Genuine Taste of Tasmania’s Coastline and Small-Town Charm
When your cruise docks in Burnie, Australia, you want a quick yet meaningful taste of what Tasmania’s northern coast has to offer. This half-day shore excursion, priced at around $156 per person, offers a relaxed, flexible way to explore Devonport, Sheffield, and Penguin without feeling rushed. At just 4 to 5 hours, it’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see some of Tasmania’s authentic rural and coastal life. Your tour is designed to be adaptable, with pickup offered and tour times tailored to your cruise schedule.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience is its small-group setting—max eight travelers means more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Plus, the stops at local attractions like the Bass Strait Maritime Centre and the Mural Town of Sheffield highlight the region’s rich maritime history and vibrant community art. One thing to keep in mind: while the tour doesn’t include meals or entry fees at certain stops, it offers enough flexible sightseeing to make it a worthwhile, budget-friendly option.
This tour is especially suited to travelers who enjoy intimate, behind-the-scenes experiences and want to avoid the large bus crowds often found on bigger shore excursions. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a bit of local culture, scenic views, and the chance to hop into small towns with a friendly, knowledgeable guide—like John, as some reviews highlight.
Key Points
- Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Devonport, Sheffield, and Penguin, with optional visits to wineries or small towns
- Personalized Service: Small groups (up to 8 travelers) for a more intimate experience
- Authentic Encounters: Explore local art, maritime history, and charming coastal communities
- Value Focus: Includes GST but excludes entry fees and lunch, offering a budget-friendly option
- Tour Adaptability: Tour times are adjusted to your cruise schedule, making planning easier
- Accessibility: Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and service animals
A Closer Look at the Burnie Shore Excursion
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What’s Included and How It Works
For just over a hundred and fifty dollars, you gain a sense of Tasmania’s northern coast through a thoughtfully curated itinerary. The tour includes pickup, making your arrival smooth, and the price covers goods and services tax (GST), ensuring transparency. However, keep in mind that entry fees and meals are not included—so if you want to explore a museum or winery, be prepared to pay at those stops.
Your day begins around 9:00 am, after coordination with your cruise schedule, which ensures the tour fits seamlessly into your limited time ashore. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized guidance and more opportunity to ask questions about the places you visit.
Devonport: A Maritime Town with a Historic Heart
Your first stop is Devonport, a lively town where the Mersey River meets Bass Strait. Here, the highlight is the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, which is free to visit and offers insight into the region’s seafaring past. This stop typically lasts around two hours, giving you enough time to stroll along the waterfront, admire the maritime exhibits, and soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Travelers have appreciated the relaxed pace here. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide took his time and explained the significance of each site.” It’s a great spot for history buffs or anyone who enjoys waterfront views and fresh sea air.
Sheffield: The Mural Town
Next, you’ll visit Sheffield, known as the “Mural Town”, with its colorful street art that narrates local stories and culture. This charming town draws over 200,000 visitors a year—and for good reason. Walking through its streets, you’ll see murals that turn the town into a living outdoor gallery.
The visit here lasts about an hour, and many travelers enjoy exploring the town’s boutique shops and cafes. One guest said, “John was an informative guide and accommodating our needs,” highlighting the personal touch that sets this tour apart. If time allows, some travelers opt to peek into the local cider cellar or relax in a cozy cafe.
Penguin: Home of the Feathered Residents
The last stop is Penguin, a name inspired by the nearby penguin rookery. Here, you’ll find a community proud of its penguin residents, with some even taking photos with a “Giant Penguin” sculpture—perfect for memorable snapshots. The penguins themselves are a major draw, and this stop offers a glimpse into the region’s wildlife.
The typical visit lasts about an hour. While you might not see the penguins up close during the day, the town’s friendly atmosphere and wildlife pride make it a delightful end to your mini-tour.
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Why Travelers Love This Experience
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially John, who makes the journey flexible and personal. One traveler mentioned, “John stopped at his house to give my wife a cane, which made her enjoy the day much more,” illustrating how dedicated guides go above and beyond.
The chance to sample Tasmania’s local culture, from maritime history to street art and wildlife, is what makes this trip stand out. The stops are well-paced, and the small group size allows for more meaningful conversations and personalized experiences.
Possible Drawback
The main consideration is the exclusion of entry fees and lunch, so travelers should budget accordingly if they wish to visit museums or wineries. Also, the tour’s duration means you’ll get a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration of each location. If you prefer comprehensive tours, this might feel a bit rushed.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This shore excursion suits adventurous travelers who like a relaxed, friendly vibe and enjoy authentic encounters. It’s perfect if you’re interested in small-town charm, local art, and coastal scenery, and if you value guides who listen and adapt to your needs. It’s also ideal for those with moderate mobility, as some stops involve walking.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For anyone seeking a personalized, budget-conscious way to see Tasmania’s northern coast, this tour is a strong choice. Its focus on local culture, friendly guides, and scenic stops delivers a genuine feel of the region. While it doesn’t include entry fees or meals, the small-group setting and flexible timing make it a refreshing alternative to bigger, more scripted shore excursions.
If you enjoy discovering small towns, appreciating artwork, and chatting about maritime history with a knowledgeable guide, this experience will suit you well. It’s a straightforward way to make the most of your brief time in Burnie without feeling like just another face on a bus.
FAQ
What locations are visited on this tour?
You’ll visit Devonport, Sheffield, and Penguin, with optional stops at wineries or small towns depending on your schedule and interests.
How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, with specific stops and time allocated at each location.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is included, and the tour is designed to be efficient, so transportation between stops is arranged as part of the package.
Can I customize the stops?
Tour times are adjusted to suit your cruise schedule, and some flexibility at stops like Sheffield and Penguin is possible, especially if you communicate your interests.
Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees at attractions like museums or wineries are not included, so plan to pay those separately if you choose to visit.
Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness; some walking may be involved, but guides are accommodating.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
How do I book?
You can reserve through Viator, with confirmation typically received within 48 hours, ensuring your spot on this popular tour.
To sum it up, this Burnie shore excursion offers a relaxed, authentic look at Tasmania’s coastal towns, perfect for visitors who appreciate personalized guidance and small-town charm. Its balance of scenic views, local culture, and flexible stops makes it a worthwhile option for those with limited time but a desire to connect with Tasmania’s true character.