Day Excursion Burnie Cradle Mt National Park

Experience the Best of Tasmania on a Day Trip from Burnie to Cradle Mountain National Park

If you’re visiting Burnie on a cruise and craving a taste of Tasmania’s stunning natural beauty, this day excursion to Cradle Mountain National Park offers a well-rounded adventure. For around $187 per person, you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours exploring some of Tasmania’s most iconic sights, with stops at charming towns and wildlife hotspots. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour is designed especially for cruise ship passengers who want to make the most of their limited time ashore.

What we love about this trip is the opportunity to see native wildlife and spectacular waterfalls along accessible walking tracks—no need for strenuous hikes. Plus, the stops at Sheffield, known as the “Mural Town,” and a penguin rookery give it a regional flavor that makes it more than just a nature walk. A key advantage is the flexible itinerary, which adjusts to your cruise schedule, making this a convenient option. However, keep in mind that if your ship’s time in port is short, some parts of the plan may be abbreviated; this is worth considering if you’re on a tight schedule.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a manageable, small-group experience with a focus on authentic landscapes and local culture. It’s especially ideal for those who want to balance wildlife encounters with scenic views, all while having a knowledgeable guide to answer questions and share insights.

Key Points

• Compact and Convenient: Designed for cruise ship passengers with flexible timing.
• Small Group Experience: Max of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Diverse Stops: From charming towns to national parks, a broad taste of Tasmania.
• Affordable Value: Includes park entry fee and GST, with no hidden costs.
• Guided Insights: Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge.
• Flexibility: Itinerary may be adjusted based on your ship’s schedule.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Sheffield Visitor Information Centre

The day begins in Sheffield, a delightful town famed for its vibrant murals—over 200, in fact. Known as the “Mural Town,” Sheffield is a canvas of colorful street art that celebrates local culture. Besides the art, this town offers a peek into rural Tasmania’s charm and warm hospitality, making it a perfect first stop.

One reviewer lauds the small group setup, mentioning, “John was a great tour guide we covered a lot, which was great.” This suggests you’ll get personalized attention and a chance to ask questions about the region. Expect about an hour here, plenty of time for a quick stroll, photo opportunities, and soaking in the local atmosphere. The visit is free, so the focus remains on the sights and stories.

Penguin Rookery

From Sheffield, the tour moves to Penguin, a town that proudly showcases its feathered residents. Named after a local penguin rookery, Penguin is a charming spot where you might see the adorable Little Penguins or just enjoy the town’s relaxed pace. The highlight is a towering “giant penguin” sculpture, perfect for memorable photos.

Spending around an hour here, you get a glimpse into Tasmania’s native wildlife and the local community’s pride. According to one reviewer, the guide made this part especially worthwhile, emphasizing the value of local insight.

Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park

The centerpiece of the tour is Cradle Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its spectacular scenery. Gustav Weindorfer’s vision in 1910 to preserve this area for all to enjoy is still alive today. As you approach, you’ll see majestic mountains, lakes, and waterfalls that are postcard-perfect.

During the visit, you’ll have options for several walking tracks—from easy strolls to more moderate hikes—depending on your fitness level and interest. We loved the way guides often tailor the experience, making it accessible for all.

The park entry fee of $29.10 is included in the tour price, simplifying your planning. One reviewer appreciated the “great coverage and a lot of sights,” emphasizing the value of a guided, curated experience rather than wandering alone.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates with a small group of no more than 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and flexibility in stops. Pickup is offered, which adds to convenience, especially for cruise passengers. Timing is flexible—they’ll adjust the schedule based on your ship’s arrival and departure, which is crucial for maximizing your day without stress.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours including travel time. This means you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see the sights without feeling rushed. Remember, this is a day trip, so some stops may be abbreviated if your cruise’s schedule is tight.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers GST and the park entry fee, making it straightforward to understand costs upfront. However, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal at one of the towns is advisable. The tour is also weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling options if conditions aren’t suitable.

Accessibility and Physical Fitness

While the tour involves walking, the level of physical effort is moderate. Travelers should have moderate fitness, as some walking tracks may vary in difficulty. Guides are often flexible in tailoring the experience, but you should be prepared for some outdoor activity.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Reviewers highlight the quality of guides and the stunning scenery. One praised the “small group which was great” and the guide John for covering a lot of ground and making the day enjoyable. Another, however, expressed disappointment, indicating that if your focus is solely on Cradle Mountain, this trip might be less ideal if some parts are shortened.

These varied experiences underscore the importance of setting expectations—this is a multi-stop tour designed to offer a broad taste rather than an in-depth exploration of just one site. For most, the combination of wildlife, scenic vistas, and local towns creates a well-rounded day.

Why Choose This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers who want a hassle-free, guided day in Tasmania, focusing on nature and local culture. It’s perfect if you enjoy small group interactions and authentic sights without the burden of planning logistics yourself.

If you’re seeking stunning views at Cradle Mountain, a taste of Tasmania’s towns, and wildlife encounters, this tour delivers. Just keep in mind that if your ship’s schedule is tight, some stops may be shortened or skipped—so communicate your timing when booking.

The Sum Up

For travelers wanting a balanced, engaging introduction to Tasmania’s natural beauty and towns, this Burnie to Cradle Mountain day trip offers good value and authentic experiences. The combination of small-group intimacy, expert guides, and the chance to see wildlife and waterfalls makes it a compelling choice for cruise visitors. While it’s not a full-day dedicated solely to Cradle Mountain, it effectively combines scenic highlights with cultural insights.

If you’re eager to explore Tasmania’s lush landscapes, charming towns, and native animals—all in a manageable, guided format—this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those who prefer organized, small-group adventures that prioritize authenticity and comfort over rushing from site to site.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, but times are adjusted based on your cruise ship’s schedule to maximize your time ashore.

How many people will be on this tour?
It’s a small group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are snacks or meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in one of the towns is recommended.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Some walking tracks are accessible, but be prepared for outdoor walking.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers GST and the park entry fee of $29.10. No additional costs are included unless specified.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are full, and weather cancellations are also fully covered.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

In all, this excursion offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience Tasmania’s stunning landscapes, wildlife, and quaint towns—perfect for cruise visitors wanting a taste of the island’s best in a single day.