Discovering Tasmania: Burnie Shore Excursion

When your cruise ship docks in Burnie, Australia, this 5-hour 30-minute tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and gardens. For just $135.76 per person, you get an engaging journey led by knowledgeable guides (the reviews mention Howard and David as standouts). It’s designed for cruise passengers who want a worry-free experience, with timely departures and a backup vehicle to ensure you’re back on time—no stress, just beautiful sights and memorable encounters.

What we love about this tour is its variety and authentic feel: visiting the famous Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens offers a peaceful escape into lush greenery, while Wings Wildlife Park delivers hands-on interactions with Tasmanian animals. Plus, the stop at Guide Falls rounds out the day with a scenic waterfall and a gentle walk, perfect for stretching legs and snapping photos.

A small consideration: the 1 hour 30-minute wildlife park visit can feel a little rushed if you’re eager to explore every corner. Also, the tour’s timing might shift slightly depending on your ship’s schedule, with some departures at 10:30 am, to give everyone ample time to arrive. But overall, this experience suits those who appreciate natural beauty, wildlife, and relaxed sightseeing—especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer not to join large, hectic tours.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you enjoy seeing local flora and fauna, taking easy walks amidst waterfalls, and enjoying scenic vistas, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want a well-rounded snapshot of Tasmania’s landscape without the hassle of planning multiple stops. Reviewers highlight Howard’s engaging commentary and the value for money, making it a trusted choice for quality and comfort.

Key Points

• Diverse stops including gardens, wildlife, and waterfalls for a varied experience.
• Guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Timely return with backup vehicles ensures peace of mind.
• Cost-effective considering entry fees and multiple attractions.
• Suitable for most travelers with moderate walking and interest in wildlife.
• Authentic experiences with opportunities to see Tasmanian animals up close.

In-Depth Review of the Burnie Shore Excursion

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at 13 Wilmot Street in Burnie, a central and easily accessible location. From there, your driver (often Howard or David, as recent reviews mention) takes you on a carefully curated journey that balances scenic drives with stopping points that showcase Tasmania’s natural highlights.

Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens — The Botanical Treasure

Just a twenty-minute drive from Burnie, these 11-hectare gardens are a highlight. Known worldwide for their remarkable collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, they bloom in an array of colors that make for excellent photos. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, just enough time to wander through well-maintained paths, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and take in views of the green hills.

Reviewers describe this stop as a “hidden gem” and highlight the beauty of the scenery. One noted, “The scenery of Burnie is so beautiful just driving through and through Howard, we learned a lot about Tasmania.” It’s a good spot for those seeking a gentle, photo-friendly experience away from busier tourist spots.

Wings Wildlife Park — Close Encounters with Tasmanian Animals

Next, you’ll visit Wings Wildlife Park, where the adventure becomes interactive. With 1 hour 30 minutes allocated, you have ample time to explore. The park allows you to walk at your own pace, and you’ll see and possibly pet wallabies, kangaroos, and other iconic animals like Tasmanian Devils, echidnas, and wombats.

A reviewer shared, “The wildlife park was amazing, allowing us opportunities to interact with wallabies and kangaroos as well as see Tasmanian Devils, echidnas and wombats.” This hands-on element is a real plus for families or animal lovers. The chance to see and learn about these creatures in a caring environment adds depth to the experience.

Guide Falls Reserve — Scenic Waterfalls and Short Walks

After the wildlife park, your journey takes you inland to Guide Falls—a brief 15-minute stop. Here, you’ll view a powerful waterfall, set against natural forest surroundings. For those interested, there’s a short walk along the river, perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying the soothing sounds of cascading water.

One reviewer called the falls “absolutely stunning,” and appreciated the easy walk which makes it accessible even for those with limited mobility or just looking for a relaxing break.

Scenic Overlook at Upper Burnie

Before heading back, you’ll make a final photo stop at Upper Burnie Lookout. This vantage point offers sweeping views over the town and coast, perfect for capturing memories of your day. It’s a nice, quiet spot to reflect on the day’s highlights before returning to your starting point.

Return to Burnie

The tour wraps up back at your meeting point, with timing carefully coordinated to ensure you’re back on your cruise ship with plenty of time to spare. The tour operator emphasizes, “DO NOT WORRY, WE WILL GET YOU BACK ON TIME,” which is reassuring for travelers concerned about schedules.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, you’ll find that transportation is comfortable, with a small group size (maximum 23 travelers), which means more personalized attention. The driver-guide (notably Howard and David) is praised for sharing interesting facts about Tasmania’s environment and wildlife, making the ride both informative and engaging.

The timing is well-organized to balance sightseeing and relaxation, with admission tickets included at the gardens and wildlife park, making it a hassle-free experience. The walks are gentle, and most travelers should find the pace suitable, even if they’re not avid hikers.

Authentic Encounters and Local Knowledge

Guests rave about Howard’s enthusiasm and ability to share local insights. One said, “Howard was fantastic. We learned a lot about Tasmania,” which adds a layer of richness that self-guided tours often lack. The wildlife encounters are particularly memorable—many report having close-up experiences with animals they might not see elsewhere.

Value for Money

Considering the admission fees, guided commentary, and multiple stops, the cost of $135.76 provides good value. It’s a comprehensive half-day that packs in scenery, animals, and waterfalls, all within a manageable schedule.

Practical Considerations

Be aware that timing might vary due to your ship’s schedule, so it’s wise to confirm departure times in advance. The tour is designed to get you back on time, with backup vehicles on standby for peace of mind. This logistic detail makes it a trustworthy choice for cruise travelers.

If you’re someone who appreciates natural beauty, loves animals, or simply wants a relaxed yet varied taste of Tasmania, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or travelers who prefer a guided experience rather than self-driving.

Because the stops are well-chosen and the pace is gentle, it’s ideal for older travelers or those with limited mobility. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the knowledgeable guides make the experience informative and fun.

The Discovering Tasmania: Burnie Shore Excursion offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Tasmania’s natural wonders. It combines scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and peaceful gardens into a memorable half-day adventure that’s accessible, well-organized, and value-packed. With high praise for guides and a variety of stops, it delivers a genuine and authentic experience that appeals to travelers seeking relaxing exploration and closer connections with Tasmania’s environment.

If you’re looking to see Tasmania’s iconic animals, visit stunning waterfalls, and enjoy beautiful gardens—all within a manageable schedule—this tour is a reliable choice. It’s especially recommended if you want a balanced, informative experience without the stress of planning everything yourself. Perfect for cruise passengers aiming to make the most of their brief stop in Burnie.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The total tour duration is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, including travel time between stops and the return to Burnie.

What is included in the price?
Admission tickets to the Emu Valley Rhododendron Gardens and Wings Wildlife Park are included, along with guided commentary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly with gentle walks and interactive wildlife encounters, making it suitable for most ages.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the schedule allows for about 30 minutes at the gardens, 1.5 hours at the wildlife park, and short stops at waterfalls and lookouts—ample time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, and some snacks or water for the day.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
The walks are described as easy, involving minimal exertion, suitable for most travelers.

Will the tour operate if my ship is delayed?
The tour includes a backup vehicle and emphasizes timely return, so they will accommodate ship schedule changes as best as possible.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 23 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who should I contact for more information?
You can reach the tour provider at +61438730204 or via email at [email protected].

This carefully crafted Burnie shore excursion promises a relaxed yet enriching taste of Tasmania, perfect for those who want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. With beautiful landscapes, delightful wildlife, and the comfort of a well-organized tour, you’re in good hands for a memorable day on this fascinating island.