Hobart: Fly & Cruise in Southwest Wilderness Area with Lunch

Imagine soaring over Tasmania’s Southwest Wilderness, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then stepping into the quiet of its remote waterways and walking among ancient landscapes. This full-day fly and cruise tour offers a blend of breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and delicious local food, all for $494 per person. Departing from Cambridge Aerodrome near Hobart, your journey is led by knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive with insights and personal stories.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines spectacular aerial vistas with intimate land-based explorations. The scenic flights give you a bird’s-eye perspective on untouched nature, while the boat trip into Bathurst Harbor immerses you in the remote waterways few travelers get to see. Plus, the Tasmanian produce lunch adds a tasty, authentic touch that makes the day feel truly special.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day activity involving some walking and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility. Also, as it’s a small group tour, it offers personalized attention but requires advance booking, especially in peak seasons.

If you’re after a unique, authentic experience that showcases Tasmania’s wild beauty and local flavors, this tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and foodies alike.

Key Points

• Unparalleled Access: Combines scenic flights, boat trips, and guided walks in a UNESCO-listed wilderness.
• Authentic Tasmanian Cuisine: Features a gourmet lunch emphasizing local produce and wine.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 11 participants for personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable pilots and boat captains enhance the storytelling.
• Remote Wilderness: Explores areas few visitors see, including Bathurst Harbor and Celery Top Islands.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes flights, boat trip, lunch, and entry fees, with optional skip-the-line privileges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Tasmania’s Southwest Wilderness: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point and Itinerary Overview

Your adventure kicks off at Cambridge Aerodrome, just a short 20-minute drive from Hobart’s city center. Arrive about 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and safety briefing. The experience begins with a 50-minute scenic flight over Hobart’s eastern suburbs and the Derwent River, offering a stunning aerial introduction to the region. During this flight, your pilot will provide live commentary, highlighting notable landmarks like Recherche Bay and South East Cape, Tasmania’s southernmost point.

What sets this tour apart is its journey into one of only two places worldwide that meet seven of the ten criteria for UNESCO World Heritage status. Flying past the South Coast Track, you’ll see the rugged beauty of the Southwest Wilderness, a landscape characterized by dramatic cliffs, ancient forests, and pristine waters.

The Landing in Melaleuca and Boat Trip

Upon landing in Melaleuca, a tiny settlement at the edge of the wilderness, you’re immediately immersed in untouched nature. After a short guided walk in the area, you board a boat for a cruise into Bathurst Harbor. This part of the tour is often highlighted in reviews as a personal highlight — seeing the Celery Top Islands and the quiet waterways allows you to appreciate the scale and serenity of Tasmania’s remote coast.

The boat ride lasts just long enough to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, and the boat captain’s commentary adds depth, especially when pointing out wildlife and geological features that you might otherwise miss. The incredible silence of the wilderness, broken only by the water and occasional bird calls, makes this a peaceful, contemplative experience.

Guided Walks and Wildlife Encounters

Back on land, you’ll visit Deny King Bird Hide, a favorite spot among birdwatchers for its view into the forest canopy. The Needwonnee Aboriginal Walk then offers an interpretive experience, giving context about the indigenous history and connection to this land.

The short bush walks are accessible but involve uneven terrain, so good footwear is recommended. These walks reveal the diverse flora and fauna of this World Heritage-listed area, including ancient trees, unique plant species, and possibly sightings of native wildlife like wallabies or birdlife.

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The Gourmet Lunch

After exploring the wilderness, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Tasmanian produce and local wine. Many reviews emphasize the quality and freshness of the food, describing it as a highlight of the day. You’ll dine in a remote location, with a view that complements the excellent local flavors. Dietary preferences can be accommodated if advised when booking.

Return Journey and Final Views

The return flight offers another opportunity to take in the scenery from above, this time with new perspectives on the landscape accumulated during the day. The flight back to Hobart is about 50 minutes, and your pilot provides commentary along the way, ensuring you’re fully engaged with the scenery beneath.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and pilots, with comments like “Alex and Greg made the experience that much better,” and noting how their storytelling enhances the understanding of Tasmania’s wilderness. The stunning views and delicious lunch are frequently mentioned as memorable highlights, making this tour a good value for the price.

Some reviewers, like the traveler from Singapore, mention that this is their second trip with the operator, which speaks to the quality and reliability of the experience. The small group size (limited to 11) allows for a more personal touch, giving everyone space to ask questions and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

Practical Considerations

• The tour includes all fees and privileges, but national park passes are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to explore independently later.
• Be prepared for a fair amount of walking in uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
• The lunch features local wine and food, but those with allergies or dietary restrictions should communicate this when booking.
• This experience is typically suitable for older children and adults with reasonable mobility; younger kids might find the terrain or duration challenging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is tailor-made for travelers who want more than just a quick look at Tasmania. If you enjoy immersive experiences — combining aerial views, wildlife, indigenous history, and local cuisine — you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable with small group tours and moderate activity levels.

Nature lovers will appreciate the untouched landscapes and remote waterways, while foodies will relish the Tasmanian produce lunch. If you’re someone who values expert commentary and a chance to get away from crowds, this tour offers a memorable way to see Tasmania’s wild heart.

Final Thoughts: The Value of This Experience

This Fly & Cruise tour provides a unique, beautifully balanced look at Tasmania’s Southwest Wilderness, a UNESCO site that’s difficult to access independently. The combination of scenic flights, a boat cruise, and guided walks offers a comprehensive perspective on this pristine environment.

With excellent reviews praising guides, scenery, and food, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worthwhile. The price reflects the inclusiveness of the day — flights, boat trips, guided walks, and a gourmet meal — making it a strong value for those wanting an authentic adventure.

However, it’s important to recognize that it’s a full-day commitment and involves some walking in uneven terrain. If you’re prepared for that, you’ll be rewarded with a sense of connection to one of the world’s most remarkable wilderness areas.

This tour is ideally suited for adventure travelers, nature enthusiasts, and food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Tasmania’s remote beauty. It’s a chance to see, learn, and taste the best of what Tasmania has to offer in a single, well-curated day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult and be comfortable with walking and uneven terrain.
• How early should I arrive? Arrive at Cambridge Aerodrome at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, please advise when booking if you have allergies or dietary preferences.
• What is included in the price? The tour includes flights, boat trip, guided walks, lunch with Tasmanian wine, refreshments, and entry fees.
• Are park passes included? No, you will need to purchase any necessary national park passes separately.
• How long is the total activity? The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, usually in the morning.
• What should I wear? Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Is there a lot of walking involved? There is some walking, mostly short and on uneven ground, so moderate fitness is recommended.
• Can I book last minute? It’s best to book in advance due to limited small-group spaces, but check availability directly.
• What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

In summary, this Hobart: Fly & Cruise in Southwest Wilderness Area tour offers an exceptional way to experience Tasmania’s wild, pristine landscapes with expert guides, stunning views, and authentic local flavors. Perfect for those craving a full day of adventure and discovery in one of the world’s most untouched environments.