If you’re looking to combine Tasmania’s thriving wine scene with its bold, contemporary art, this full-day tour blends the two seamlessly. For $165 per person, you’ll spend about seven hours exploring one of Australia’s oldest wineries, touring the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), and enjoying a delicious, locally sourced lunch — all while cruising across the Derwent River on a stylish ferry.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the unique pairing of wine tasting with modern art, which offers a fresh perspective on both. Second, the intimate group size—limited to just four participants—means you get plenty of personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. We love the way this tour allows you to slow down and really soak in the atmosphere of Tasmania’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
That said, it’s worth noting that this experience isn’t suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, given the focus on wine sampling and adult-themed art exhibits. If you’re a lover of wine, contemporary art, or simply want a day that combines culture with leisure, this trip hits the sweet spot.
Who is this tour perfect for?
If you’re eager to explore Tasmania’s creative spirit while sipping some of the best local wines, this experience is a natural fit. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate thought-provoking art and enjoy small, guided tours that go beyond the typical museum visit. Be prepared for a full day of engaging sights, tastes, and conversations — all wrapped up in a scenic boat ride.
Key Points
- Unique combination of wine tasting and modern art at Mona and Moorilla winery
- Small-group format ensures personalized attention and an intimate experience
- Scenic ferry ride from Hobart adds a relaxed, stylish transportation element
- Locally sourced two-course lunch paired with Moorilla wines offers great value
- Museum exploration includes access to some of Australia’s most provocative, private collections
- Flexible afternoon allows free time to explore galleries, enjoy wine, or relax outdoors
Detailed Review of the Hobart: Moorilla’s Wine + Art at Mona by Boat Tour
The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day of Culture and Sips
This tour kicks off early, with a ferry departure from Brooke Street Pier at 10:15 am. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—fast, stylish, and offering views of Hobart’s waterfront that set the tone for the day. Once you arrive at Mona around 10:45 am, the real adventure begins.
The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) is the star of the show. Renowned for its daring, sometimes provocative art installations, Mona challenges visitors’ perceptions of beauty and meaning. According to reviews, “some brilliant art and really weird art” make the visit both fascinating and fun. You’ll have ample time to wander the galleries, explore the grounds, and soak in Mona’s eclectic atmosphere.
At 12:30 pm, it’s time for your two-course lunch at The Source Restaurant, the culinary highlight of the day. What’s special is the focus on locally sourced produce, paired with a glass of Moorilla wine. The lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that supports Tasmania’s vibrant food scene. Reviewers praise the meal as “outstanding,” with one calling it “a temple to wine,” emphasizing the quality and care behind the menu.
Post-lunch, at 2:00 pm, you’ll join the Moorilla Deep Dive tour—a small-group exploration of the winery’s ins and outs. The guide shares insights into the winemaking process and the history of this historic estate. Then, you head underground for a comprehensive tasting of Moorilla’s wines. The underground tasting room provides an intimate setting, perfect for savoring the diverse range of wines and learning what makes Moorilla special.
The rest of the afternoon is flexible. You can linger at the wine bar, revisit parts of Mona that interest you most, relax on the lawns, or enjoy some background music. This freedom allows you to tailor the experience based on your mood or curiosity.
Transportation and Group Size: Personal, Stylish, and Convenient
The ferry from Hobart is both quick and comfortable, taking you directly across the river to Mona. Since the group size is limited to four participants, the experience feels more like a private tour than a large bus excursion. This setup enhances the opportunity for interaction with guides and makes logistics smooth and stress-free.
The Value: What You Get for Your Money
At $165, this experience offers both cultural enrichment and gourmet indulgence. The included ferry ride, museum entry, lunch, and wine tasting make it a well-rounded package. Without additional charges for parking or transportation, you’re paying mainly for the quality of access and guided insights. The small group size maximizes value by ensuring you aren’t lost in a crowd, allowing for meaningful conversations and questions.
Authenticity and Experience
From the reviews, “Brilliant day out some brilliant art and so really weird art,” it’s clear that Mona’s collection sparks curiosity and sometimes playful reactions. The knowledgeable guides are noted for their engaging storytelling, making the visit educational but never dry. The wine tasting, too, is highly praised, with one reviewer calling it “fantastic,” highlighting the quality of Moorilla’s offerings.
Practical Considerations
Since there’s no hotel transfer included, you’ll need to make your way to Brooke Street Pier on your own. The tour is not suitable for children or pregnant women, so plan accordingly if traveling with family. Also, remember to bring your passport or ID for verification, and leave any drones, professional cameras, or tripods at home—these are not allowed.
The timing is convenient, but be aware that the 5 pm return ferry means your day wraps up early evening. Make sure to coordinate your other plans in Hobart around this schedule.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy wine, contemporary art, and a touch of whimsy. If you’re keen on learning about Tasmania’s local wine scene while exploring provocative, thought-provoking art, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and flexible afternoons.
Travelers who savor culinary experiences will appreciate the locally sourced lunch paired with wines, elevating the whole day. If you’re a curious soul wanting a balanced dose of culture, leisure, and scenic travel, this tour ticks all those boxes.
FAQs
Is transportation from Hobart included?
No, the tour begins with a ferry departure from Brooke Street Pier. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the pier.
How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry departs at 10:15 am and arrives at Mona around 10:45 am, making it a short and scenic crossing across the Derwent River.
Can I visit Mona without taking this tour?
Yes, but this package offers guided insights, a curated lunch, and a wine tasting—all in one well-organized day.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18, given the focus on wine and adult-themed art exhibits.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for verification. You might also consider sunglasses or a hat for outdoor exploring, but no need for professional cameras or tripods.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.
Final Thoughts
This Hobart Moorilla and Mona tour offers a well-balanced day of cultural discovery, wine tasting, and scenic cruising. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Tasmania, combining its bold contemporary art with its sophisticated wine scene—all within a compact, manageable schedule.
The small group setting, expert guides, and thoughtfully curated experiences make it a memorable choice for curious travelers looking for authenticity and quality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Tasmanian explorer, this tour provides a taste of the island’s creative spirit with the added pleasure of great wine and a stunning boat ride.
If you value insightful guides, excellent wine, and provocative art in a scenic setting, you’ll find this experience rewarding and inspiring. It’s a curated slice of Tasmania’s vibrant culture, delivered in style and comfort.