Tasmania 5 Day East Coast Tour

Tasmania 5 Day East Coast Tour offers an engaging way to see the stunning wilderness, historic sites, and charming towns of Tasmania’s east coast. For around $1,490 per person, this five-day journey combines sightseeing, cultural insights, and plenty of tastings — from cheese and wine to oysters and beer. Led by knowledgeable guides in a small group (max 15 travelers), you’ll enjoy a more personal experience that’s rich in authentic moments.

We particularly appreciate how this tour balances impressive scenic views, like Mount Wellington and Tasman National Park, with deep dives into local culture and history. The inclusion of most meals and numerous tastings means you get a taste of Tasmania without the extra planning, making it excellent value.

One thing to consider is the non-refundable nature of the booking, so if your plans change, you might want to think about travel insurance. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of nature, history, and gourmet experiences, and who enjoy small-group outings where guides can share stories and answer questions more comfortably.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personalized attention from guides.
• Diverse itinerary covers scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and local food tastings.
• All attraction fees and national parks passes are included, adding value.
• Expert guides are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Flexible options like optional lunch and the chance to explore independently at Launceston.
• Comprehensive experience blending scenery, culture, and culinary delights.

A Thorough Look at the Tasmania 5 Day East Coast Tour

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Tasmania’s east coast, this tour hits many of the highlights in just five days. From the moment you arrive in Hobart to the final exploration in Launceston, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes Tasmania special: breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and a thriving food scene. Let’s unpack what makes this trip worthwhile — and what you might want to keep in mind.

Day 1: Starting in Hobart with Style and Scenic Views

The tour begins with your arrival in Hobart, where you’ll settle into the chic Movenpick Hotel. It’s a centrally located, stylish base that’s perfect for exploring the city at your leisure. If you arrive early, you might enjoy a walk around Hobart’s vibrant streets or relax in the hotel’s elegant setting.

Your guide will kick off with a gentle introduction to Hobart’s charm, including a drive through Salamanca Square and the historic Battery Point district. These areas are packed with old sandstone buildings, cozy cafes, and lively markets — excellent for a first impression of Tasmania’s history and contemporary vibe.

We love how the first day sets a relaxed tone, allowing guests to settle in and soak up the city’s personality. Plus, the central hotel location means you’re within walking distance of many sights, shops, and cafes.

Day 2: Hobart’s Maritime and Mountain Marvels

The second day is packed with highlights. You’ll start at Constitution Dock, where the maritime atmosphere is vibrant and lively, and see the Mawson’s Hut replica — a nod to Antarctica explorers and Tasmania’s connection to polar history. The statues commemorating the first south pole expedition add a touch of adventure to the morning.

Next, a scenic drive takes you through Salamanca and Battery Point, sharing stories of Hobart’s historic neighborhoods. Then, you’ll pass the imposing female correctional facility, offering insight into Tasmania’s convict past, though it’s a quick external view rather than a tour.

The Cascade Brewery offers a picturesque stop with fascinating stories about Tasmania’s brewing history — a perfect photo opportunity. But the highlight of the day is ascending Mount Wellington, where panoramic views stretch across Hobart and the surrounding landscape. Reaching 1,275 meters, you’ll see why this mountain is a national treasure, with sweeping vistas that seem to go on forever.

Crossing the Tasman Bridge signals your move from the city to the coast, setting the tone for the days ahead. Lunch is at Puddleduck Vineyard, where a gourmet platter accompanied by free wine tastings makes for a delightful experience, combining Tasmania’s wine and food reputation.

We love the way guides share stories about the local landscape and history during these stops, turning a scenic drive into an educational journey.

Day 3: The History and Wild Coast of Port Arthur and Maria Island

The third day plunges into Tasmania’s convict past with a guided tour of Port Arthur. Over three hours, you’ll explore historic buildings, learn about the transportation of convicts, and hear stories that bring the ruins to life. It’s a moving, educational experience, especially if you’re interested in Australia’s penal history.

Next, a visit to Federation Artisan Chocolate offers a sweet break — handcrafted chocolates made on-site, with tastings that make this stop irresistible. Then, you’ll see the vibrant Port Arthur Lavender Farm, with its colorful fields of lavender and a shop full of locally made lavender products.

A short drive past Maria Island offers coastal views and a chance to learn about its convict settlement history. We love how the tour balances these historic sites with scenic spots like Spiky Bridge — an unusual stone bridge built by convicts, whose unique design still sparks curiosity.

The day wraps up with a penguin-spotting adventure at Bicheno, where you can see these adorable creatures waddle ashore in the wild from just meters away. This unique wildlife encounter is a highlight for many travelers, praised in reviews for its authenticity and wonder.

Day 4: Coastal Wonders and Wildlife Encounters

Starting with another visit to the Bicheno Blowhole, you’ll see this natural feature in daylight, with water spurting over 25 feet into the air — a dramatic, memorable sight.

The morning continues at East Coast Natureworld, an animal sanctuary that houses native Tasmanian creatures, many rescued or bred locally. Guides are helpful and knowledgeable, making this a family-friendly activity that offers a genuine connection with Tasmania’s wildlife.

After lunch, the tour explores the Bay of Fires, famous for its white sands, turquoise waters, and striking red rocks — a photographer’s paradise. We love how this stretch combines natural beauty with tranquil atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.

A visit to the Lease 65 Oyster Farm in St Helens allows for fresh oyster tastings from a local, family-run farm. It’s a simple but delicious taste of Tasmania’s seafood bounty.

The day ends at the Pyengana Dairy, where you can sample award-winning cheeses and see a robotic dairy in action. It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at modern dairy farming that also offers tasty souvenirs.

Day 5: Launceston and Farewell

The final morning is free to explore Launceston at your own pace. You can relax in the hotel or take a short walk to the city mall and parks. It’s a quiet, low-pressure way to end the trip, leaving you with a few final memories of Tasmania’s friendly towns.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

From reviews and our own analysis, the knowledgeable guides often receive high praise — they’re friendly, well-informed, and eager to share stories, making each stop engaging. Many travelers mention guides like Morgan, Carl, Robert, and Dean as the reasons their trip felt special — their enthusiasm and expertise clearly shine through.

The scenic diversity is another major plus. You’ll climb Mount Wellington for sweeping city views, walk along rugged coastlines at the Tessellated Pavement, and explore the rugged Tasman National Park with its dramatic cliffs and arches. These moments of natural beauty are what many travelers come for, and this tour delivers them with ease.

The culinary tastings — wine at Puddleduck, chocolates at Federation, oysters at Lease 65, and cheese at Pyengana — add a flavorful layer to the trip. Many reviewers emphasize how these stops offer authentic tastes of Tasmania’s local produce, enhancing the sense of discovery.

In terms of value, including most attraction fees, national park passes, and tastings makes the upfront cost reasonable when you consider how much is covered. Plus, the small group size ensures you get plenty of attention and opportunities to ask questions, a feature often highlighted as making the experience more intimate and enjoyable.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

The non-refundable policy can be a downside for travelers with uncertain plans. If your schedule might shift, you’ll want to be sure before booking.

Plus, the itinerary involves some early mornings and a fair bit of driving, which might be tiring for those less accustomed to long days on the road. But for most who love exploring at a relaxed pace and enjoy guided storytelling, these are minor inconveniences.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Tasmania’s east coast. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group outings with friendly guides who can share insights beyond just the sights. Food and wine lovers will appreciate the tastings, while nature enthusiasts will love the scenery and wildlife encounters. It suits travelers who value a good mix of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights packed into a thoughtfully organized trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, provided they’re comfortable with some walking and bus travel.

Does the tour include accommodation?
No, the hotel in Hobart at the start is included, but the rest of the trip is day-based, with Launceston as your endpoint on the last day.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, and several tastings are part of the experience, but lunch at certain stops may be optional.

Can I join the tour if I have dietary restrictions?
While most tastings feature local produce, it’s best to inform the tour operator in advance to accommodate dietary needs.

What is the group size?
The tour hosts a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a minibus suited for small groups, with plenty of space and climate control.

What’s the best season to take this tour?
While not specified, Tasmania is most popular in spring and summer when the weather is milder and landscapes are lush.

Are attraction entry fees covered?
Yes, all attraction fees and national park passes are included, so there are no surprise costs at stops.

What if I want to explore Launceston independently?
You’re free to do so after the guided portion on the last day; the hotel is centrally located for easy exploration.

To sum it up, the Tasmania 5 Day East Coast Tour offers a well-balanced, engaging exploration of one of Australia’s most scenic and historic regions. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who value expert guides, authentic local food, and diverse landscapes. If you’re looking for an enriching, comfortable way to see Tasmania’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour delivers a lot of value for the price.