Mona Like a Rockstar: A Deep Dive Into Tasmania’s Premier Art Experience
If you’re visiting Hobart and want to combine art, luxury, and a touch of adventure, Mona Like a Rockstar offers an experience that’s hard to match. For $350.83 per person, this 6.5-hour tour takes you from the bustling Brooke Street Pier directly into the world of James Walsh’s Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) with extra indulgence along the way. This isn’t just a typical museum visit; it’s a curated journey that blends private ferry rides, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to some of the most thought-provoking artworks in Australia.
One of the things we love about this experience is the luxurious transport—boarding Mona’s private Posh Pitthe ferry with its lavish lounge, bar, and deck, offers a pace and setting that elevate the day from ordinary to extraordinary. The second highlight is the carefully curated food and beverage pairings, including a cocktail at the Void Bar and a multi-course feast from Vince Trimin, complemented by wines from Mona’s cellar. The third standout? Access to James Turrell’s Event Horizon, which adds a mesmerizing, neuron-tingling dimension to the art encounter.
A possible consideration is the price point—it’s a premium experience, so it might feel pricey for some travelers. Also, since the tour is limited to only four guests, it’s not a group experience but more of an intimate, curated outing, which means booking well in advance is advisable.
This tour works best for art lovers who appreciate fine dining and exclusive experiences, as well as those willing to indulge in a full, thoughtfully curated day that mixes art, luxury, and a little adventure.
Key Points
- Luxurious Transport: Private ferry with onboard lounge and bar makes the journey part of the experience.
- Exclusive Access: Entry to Mona, plus special areas like the Faro Bar, Void Bar, and James Turrell’s “Event Horizon.”
- Gourmet Dining: Curated multi-course lunch with matched wines from Mona’s cellar.
- Personalized Service: Small group size (max 4), ensuring an intimate experience.
- Unique Art Encounters: Access to both the museum collection and the underground art spaces.
- Value for Enthusiasts: Ideal for art lovers wanting an elevated, behind-the-scenes look.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point: Brooke Street Pier
Your day begins at 10:00 am at the Brooke Street Pier, a hub of Hobart’s waterfront activity. This location is convenient, close to major hotels and public transport, making it easy to meet your guide and fellow travelers. Once onboard the Posh Pitthe ferry, you’ll immediately notice the lavish lounge and bar—definitely not your average boat ride.
The Ferry Ride: A Moving Lounge
The 30-minute voyage along the River Derwent is a highlight in itself. We loved the way the ferry’s design and amenities create a relaxing, upscale atmosphere. With complimentary canapés and drinks served, this part of the experience sets a tone of indulgence. The gentle river scenery, combined with the sense of leaving Hobart behind, makes the journey feel special from the outset.
Arrival at Mona: A World of Art
Stepping off the ferry, you’re greeted by your Mona host, who will escort you to the Void Bar. Here, you’re introduced to the bartender and can enjoy a cocktail that prepares you for the galleries ahead. The art collection at Mona is sprawling, but the tour emphasizes exclusive areas like the Faro Bar, where you can appreciate the museum’s contemporary vibe in a more intimate setting.
We loved the way the guide seamlessly integrated a quick art history intro with practical tips on navigating Mona’s vast collection. As you wander through, you’ll encounter everything from ancient antiquities to modern installations, all curated by David Walsh with his signature flair.
Lunch at Faro Bar & Event Horizon
Around noon, you’re escorted to The Faro Bar and Restaurant, where Vince Trimin’s culinary artistry shines through a carefully curated feast. The meal includes matched drinks from Mona’s wine cellar, elevating the dining experience. The highlight is access to James Turrell’s “Event Horizon”, a neuron-tingling light installation that plays with perception and space, leaving many visitors in awe.
This combination—taste, sight, and immersive art—embodies what makes Mona special. As one traveler noted, “The drinks and food were excellent, but the real showstopper was the art. The light installation was mesmerizing.”
Final Stop: The Underground Collection
In the afternoon, your guide will lead you to the underground galleries, where Walsh’s collection of art and antiquities resides. This subterranean space adds an exclusive element, allowing you to explore treasures rarely seen by the general public.
Wrapping Up: Return Voyage and Goodbye
At 3 pm, you’ll head back to The Source Restaurant for a final sip and a small gift. Then, your guide will escort you back down into the underground space for a brief exploration before heading to the ferry for the return trip. The ferry ride back features additional snacks and drinks, closing your day with a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
Breaking Down the Value
While the price of $350.83 might seem steep, we think it’s justified by the all-inclusive nature of the experience—luxurious transport, private access, gourmet meals, and curated art encounters. For art enthusiasts, the exclusive behind-the-scenes access and curated journey add significant value that you wouldn’t get on a standard museum tour.
The small group size (max 4 travelers) ensures personalized attention, making this a truly intimate and immersive day. Plus, the combination of dining, drinks, and art creates a seamless, sensory-rich experience that’s perfect for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of Hobart’s cultural gems.
Who is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for art lovers who appreciate fine dining and curated tours, as well as travelers seeking an exclusive, luxury day out. It’s perfect if you want to combine art, gastronomy, and adventure in a compact, well-organized package. It also suits those interested in hidden gems like Turrell’s “Event Horizon” and are prepared to spend a bit more for a memorable, personalized experience.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch, alcoholic beverages (a cocktail at the Void Bar and matched drinks with lunch), museum entrance, an introduction on arrival, a restroom on board, and WiFi on the ferry.
What is the starting point?
The tour begins at Brooke Street Pier, 12 Franklin Wharf, Hobart at 10 am. It’s centrally located and accessible by public transport.
How long does the entire experience last?
The tour runs approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with about 30 minutes on the ferry each way, and the rest spent exploring Mona and enjoying meals.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, this experience is tailored more toward adults. Children are allowed, but the emphasis on fine dining, alcohol, and artistic themes may be less engaging for younger kids.
Are there any physical demands?
The tour involves walking through galleries and some stairs in the underground collection. It’s generally accessible but may require moderate mobility.
What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate. Dress comfortably, keeping in mind you’ll be inside, on a boat, and in galleries—layers are advisable.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed promptly, giving flexibility for travel plans.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since part of the experience relies on the ferry ride, poor weather could lead to rescheduling or a full refund.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 4 travelers, offering an intimate, boutique experience that’s hard to find on larger tours.
What’s the best time to book?
Since the tour is booked an average of 44 days in advance, it’s wise to secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.
Final thoughts
Mona Like a Rockstar isn’t just a museum visit; it’s a carefully curated luxury art journey that combines private transportation, exclusive access, gourmet dining, and immersive art. For those eager to experience Mona beyond the usual, this tour offers a personalized, high-end perspective in a setting that feels like a special event rather than just a day trip.
It’s perfect for art aficionados, foodies, and anyone looking to add a touch of glamour to their Hobart visit. While it isn’t the cheapest way to see Mona, the attention to detail, exclusivity, and curated experience make it a standout in Tasmania’s cultural scene—well worth considering if your goal is a memorable, indulgent day in Hobart.