Kangaroo Island Shore Excursion Tasting Tour – For Cruise Ship Passengers Only

Kangaroo Island Shore Excursion Tasting Tour — A Foodie’s Day in Paradise

When your cruise ship docks in Penneshaw, you have a choice: settle for just a quick glimpse of Kangaroo Island or dive into a full day of discovering its culinary and natural treasures. For around $155, you can join a 7-hour guided tasting tour that takes you from honey farms to lavender fields, eucalyptus distilleries, and top local wineries. This tour is perfect if you’re curious about authentic Australian flavors, love meeting local producers, and don’t mind a bit of travel.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the variety of tastings—from honey and gin to wine and lavender scones—and the personalized, friendly guides that make each stop engaging and informative. You’ll learn how eucalyptus oil is made, get to nibble on lavender scones, and sample some of the best wines Kangaroo Island produces. Plus, the chance to see native wildlife, like kangaroos and koalas, along the way adds an extra layer of authenticity.

A possible consideration is the timing and logistics—the tour departs from Penneshaw at 9:00 am, and while most travelers find the schedule well-paced, families with young children or mobility concerns may want to double-check if the stops suit their pace. This tour generally suits curious travelers eager to explore local flavors in a relaxed setting and those who appreciate small-group experiences, as it’s capped at 20 participants.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences: Visit farms, distilleries, and wineries to taste genuine Kangaroo Island products.
• Variety of tastings: Honey, gin, wine, eucalyptus products, and lavender scones—something for every palate.
• Flexible schedule: About 7 hours with ample time at each stop, including leisure time in Kingscote.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Caitlyn and Lutz receive high praise for their friendliness and expertise.
• No lunch included: You’ll want to plan for a light meal or bring snacks for the day.
• Weather considerations: The tour recommends travel insurance due to potential weather-related cancellations, which is wise given the outdoor nature of many stops.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point: Penneshaw Cruise Port

The tour kicks off promptly at 9:00 am, with pickup from the cruise ship port. Most travelers appreciate the convenience of being collected right from the dock, saving them from logistical worries. The small-group format (maximum 20 people) means you’ll get plenty of personal attention, and the vehicle is comfortable enough for a full day of drives and stops.

Clifford’s Honey Farm: Sweet Beginnings

Your first stop is Clifford’s Honey Farm, where you’ll learn about the Ligurian Bee and honey production. Honey tastings here are a highlight, especially if you’re curious about the differences between varieties. The gift shop offers a range of honey products and souvenirs, giving you the chance to pick up a tasty memento of your visit. Reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the opportunity to learn about beekeeping and sample different honeys, with Kim_B stating she’d give this tour ten stars if possible.

Emu Ridge Eucalyptus: The Aromatic Delight

Next, you’ll visit Emu Ridge, a historic eucalyptus distillery. Here, you’ll see how eucalyptus oil is distilled—an essential ingredient in Australian natural health products—and get to try eucalyptus drops and ciders. This stop is a favorite for its informative presentation and the chance to sample local ciders, which many reviews praise as refreshing and authentic. Caitlyn, a guide, is especially noted for her knowledge and the fun, engaging way she explains the process.

Emu Bay Lavender: A Fragrant Break

A highlight for many is the lavender farm, where you’re treated to a traditional Lavender Scone with Tea or Coffee. This lovely stop not only offers a tasting but also time to wander through fields of blooming lavender and browse the gift shop. Ellen_S described it as “a great day,” emphasizing the enjoyment of the lavender scones and the relaxed atmosphere. Be aware that the scones are seasonal and dependent on lavender farm opening hours.

Kingscote: Free Time to Explore

The tour then allows for an hour in Kingscote, the main town, where you can grab a casual lunch, visit local shops, or simply stroll around. Many appreciate this break to stretch their legs, take photos, or get a quick look at everyday life on the island.

Bay of Shoals Winery: Sipping with a View

Next, the group visits Bay of Shoals Wines, a vineyard overlooking the bay. Here, you’ll indulge in wine tastings in a scenic setting, often praising the selection of whites and ports. Reviewers note that the wines are well-curated, and some mention that the views add a special touch to the experience.

Kangaroo Island Spirits: The Perfect End

The final stop is Kangaroo Island Spirits, where the rustic distillery produces gins, vodkas, and liqueurs. Tasting sessions are lively, and guides like Joel get high marks for their enthusiasm. Many guests mention the gin as a highlight, with Rhylla_W noting the high quality of the spirits.

The Value of This Tour

At $155.26 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Kangaroo Island’s flavors and landscapes. When you consider the inclusion of multiple tastings, farm visits, and the chance to meet local producers, it is a good value for travelers seeking an authentic, small-group experience. The fact that the stops are carefully curated means you’ll get to see some of the best that the island has to offer without feeling rushed.

While lunch isn’t included, most guests find they can grab a light bite in Kingscote or nearby cafes, making the overall experience flexible. The tour’s length, about 7 hours, is well-paced for those interested in a thorough sightseeing day without it becoming exhausting.

Transportation and Logistical Considerations

The tour departs from Penneshaw at 9:00 am, with pickup right at the cruise port. The vehicle is a comfortable SUV, accommodating a small group, which keeps the experience intimate. Travelers frequently praise the driver-guide for their knowledge and friendly manner, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Weather can sometimes impact the tour—cancellations due to severe weather are possible, as noted in the policy—so travel insurance is highly recommended. This way, if the weather turns foul, you won’t lose out on your investment.

Accessibility and Group Size

Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should confirm with the provider beforehand. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the guides are known for their engaging storytelling.

Authentic Experiences That Keep Visitors Coming Back

From reviews, it’s clear this tour strikes a good balance between guided expertise and free exploration. Caitlyn and Lutz receive praise for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to make each stop memorable. Many reviewers appreciated the opportunity to see native wildlife, like kangaroos and koalas, which adds a wild touch to the day.

The variety of tastings—whether it’s honey, gin, wine, or lavender scones—means you’re not just drinking or nibbling; you’re learning about local production methods and the stories behind each product. This educational aspect is something many travelers value, as it transforms a simple tasting into an insightful experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a foodie or someone curious about local Australian products, this tour is a treasure. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group outing with plenty of opportunities to taste and learn. People who enjoy scenic drives, farm visits, and wine tastings will find it especially rewarding. However, if you prefer a more active or self-guided exploration, you might find this tour a bit structured.

This excursion is best suited for those who don’t mind a full day’s outing, enjoy hearing stories from passionate guides, and appreciate a good balance between sightseeing and tasting. Given the reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and the variety of experiences, it’s clear this tour offers both education and entertainment in equal measure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring a light snack or plan to eat in Kingscote after the tour stops.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including all stops and free time in Kingscote.

What is the price per person?
It costs about $155.26 per person, which covers tastings, farm visits, and guided experiences.

Are pickup and transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered directly from Penneshaw cruise port, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

What types of tastings are included?
Guests enjoy honey tastings, eucalyptus drops, gins, wines, and lavender scones with tea or coffee (season and opening hours permitting).

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate; however, the minimum drinking age is 18, so this applies to alcohol tastings.

Is there a chance of weather cancellations?
Yes, due to weather, the captain may cancel tenders, and tours could be canceled. Travel insurance is recommended.

How many people typically join?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am from Penneshaw cruise port, with pickup included in the tour package.

Final Thoughts

This Kangaroo Island Shore Excursion Tasting Tour offers a wonderful way to see and taste the island’s best. It’s particularly suitable for curious, food-loving travelers who want an authentic look at local producers and scenic highlights in a relaxed setting. The carefully curated stops, friendly guides, and variety of tastings make it a memorable experience—one that balances education, enjoyment, and natural beauty.

While it’s important to consider weather and the lack of lunch, most guests find the experience to be well worth the cost. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it an intimate journey into Kangaroo Island’s flavors and scenery, leaving visitors with delicious memories and a deeper appreciation for this unique Australian destination.