Hobart, Tasmania
Welcome to Hobart, Tasmania's charming and historic capital city! Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi), Hobart offers a unique blend of colonial heritage, cutting-edge art, and breathtaking natural scenery. Major cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises frequently call here, drawn by the port's incredible accessibility. Passengers love that they can step off the ship and immediately immerse themselves in a vibrant waterfront culture, with world-class attractions just a short walk or ferry ride away.
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding wilderness, a trip to the summit of Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi) is a must. The journey by car or tour bus takes about 30-40 minutes from the port. Another top attraction is the world-famous Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), a subversive and thought-provoking collection accessible via a scenic 25-minute ferry ride from the waterfront. If you're looking to meet some iconic local residents, the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, about a 30-minute drive away, offers close-up encounters with Tasmanian devils and kangaroos. On Saturdays, the vibrant Hobart Salamanca Market is just steps from the pier and is a fantastic place to experience local culture and crafts.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
A popular day trip is to the beautifully preserved Richmond Village, a historic town just a 30-minute drive from Hobart. Here you can walk across Australia's oldest bridge, explore colonial-era buildings, and browse quaint shops. For nature lovers, Mount Field National Park is an excellent choice, though it is further afield at about a 90-minute drive each way. It's home to the stunning three-tiered Russell Falls and some of the world's tallest flowering plants. Another favorite is Bruny Island, famous for its gourmet food, wildlife, and dramatic coastal landscapes, which requires a drive and a short ferry ride, making a pre-booked shore excursion the easiest way to visit.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Cruise ships dock at the Macquarie Wharf Cruise Ship Terminal (Hobart Cruise Port), which boasts an unbeatable location. The terminal is situated on the city's historic waterfront, adjacent to the CBD and popular areas like Salamanca Place and Constitution Dock. It is an easy and flat 5 to 10-minute walk to the main shopping areas, museums, and restaurants, so transportation or shuttles are generally not necessary to explore the city center. The immediate port area is bustling with activity and amenities, and tendering is not required.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). U.S. Dollars and other foreign currencies are not accepted for transactions. Major credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and tour companies. ATMs are readily available throughout the city center, including near the cruise terminal, for withdrawing local currency. It is advisable to have a small amount of cash on hand for purchases at market stalls or smaller cafes.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Hobart is considered a very safe and friendly city, and visitors should feel comfortable exploring independently. The central business district and waterfront areas are well-populated and safe to walk around. Standard safety precautions, such as being mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, should be followed. There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. When traveling outside the city, be alert for wildlife on the roads, especially during dawn and dusk.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
The main cruise season aligns with Tasmania's spring and summer (October to April), offering the most pleasant weather for exploring. During this period, average daily temperatures range from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). Hobart's weather is notoriously changeable and it's often said you can experience 'four seasons in one day.' Therefore, it is essential to dress in layers. Packing a waterproof jacket for unexpected showers, a warm fleece or sweater, and sunglasses is highly recommended. Even on a warm day, the summit of Mt. Wellington (Kunanyi) can be significantly colder and windier.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
While Hobart's city center is very walkable from the cruise port, other transportation options are available for reaching attractions further away. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are easily accessible. For a comprehensive overview of the city's sights, the Red Decker Hobart Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a popular choice, with stops at key locations like the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Public transport is managed by Metro Tasmania buses, which serve the greater Hobart area. To visit the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), the dedicated MONA ROMA high-speed ferry from Brooke Street Pier is the most scenic and convenient option.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Hobart offers excellent shopping opportunities, especially for unique, locally made goods. The best one-stop-shop is the renowned Hobart Salamanca Market, held every Saturday, where you can find everything from artisan foods and local gin to crafts made from native Huon pine. The charming streets of Battery Point and the sandstone warehouses of Salamanca Place are filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and studios. Look for Tasmanian specialties such as high-quality wool products, lavender items, and world-class whisky and gin from local distilleries like the Lark Distillery. Prices are typically fixed, and haggling is not common practice.
Last updated on February 11, 2026
Explore Maria Island National Park on an award-winning day tour featuring a 4-hour scenic cruise and a 2-hour stay on the island. Look for wildlife like wombats, kangaroos, and even whales during migration, while learning about the area's geology and UNESCO convict history. A delicious lunch of salad bowls is served on the boat, and includes a complimentary local wine or premium lager. A convenient shuttle bus service from Hobart is also available.
Travel in a luxury Mercedes on a relaxed, small-group wine tour with no hidden costs. Visit four different cellar doors, with a chef-prepared lunch and all tastings included in your tour price. This easy-going tour is perfect for both new and experienced wine lovers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized day.
Journey to the summit of Mt Wellington for an exhilarating 6km downhill road ride, offering breathtaking views from 1270 metres above sea level. Next, embark on a guided 11km off-road adventure through a stunning temperate rainforest, past giant ferns and a waterfall. Led by experienced local guides providing commentary, this tour includes a stop at a cafe for refreshments before finishing back in Hobart.
Experience true sailing on a former Sydney to Hobart maxi yacht for a three-hour tour of the city's beautiful harbour. You can take a turn at the helm and grind the winches, or simply relax and enjoy stunning views of the city and Mt. Wellington. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and penguins while listening to stories from the experienced crew as you enjoy the included local treats.
Visit two of Hobart's surrounding wine regions with a guide who has over 47 years of industry experience. Learn to evaluate wine like an expert using his easy-to-use educational notes. A complimentary cheese board and water are provided, but lunch and wine tasting fees are not included, allowing you to choose your own preferences. This tour requires a minimum of four guests to proceed.
Experience a unique culinary tour that showcases the very best of Tasmania's world-class seafood. Watch as skilled local divers with years of experience harvest fresh delicacies from the sea right before your eyes. The divers will then prepare the fresh catch for you to enjoy. Please note that a minimum of four adults is required for this charter to proceed.
Enjoy the ultimate flexibility with this private tour, limited to a maximum of just seven people. You are in complete control of the itinerary, deciding which tour option to take and where you want to go. You also choose how long to stay at each location and where, when, and what you would like to eat throughout the day.
Explore Tasmania’s premier food and wine destinations at your own pace with this flexible hop-on, hop-off bus tour. The schedule includes hourly pickups from seven iconic locations, including renowned vineyards and the historic town of Richmond. Enjoy wine and produce tastings, take an extended lunch break where you choose, and tailor your perfect day before a convenient return to Hobart.
Discover Tasmania's underwater culinary treasures on a full-day gourmet seafood cruise around Bruny Island's waterways. Watch as your expert guide dives for fresh abalone and sea urchin, which are prepared for you right on the boat. This small-group tour, limited to 12 people, ensures a feast of lobster, calamari, and freshly shucked oysters with plenty for everyone.
This small-group tour departs mid-morning, giving you time to explore Salamanca Market before heading into wine country. Enjoy tastings at three premium cellar doors, including a complimentary cheese platter at Puddleduck Vineyard. You'll also visit the Wicked Cheese Co. for more tastings and have free time to explore the historic village of Richmond. Your local guide provides full live commentary throughout this relaxed day.
Travel 1270 metres above sea level on the official shuttle bus to the summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington for spectacular views. The standard 2.5-hour return tour includes 30 minutes at the summit, or you can use your all-day pass to hop-on and hop-off at five bus stops to explore alpine walking tracks. This is the only tour with exclusive access during snow closures and includes guide commentary and a complimentary map.
Go behind the scenes of Hobart's vibrant, working waterfront on a 2.5-hour guided city paddle. From your kayak, you'll glide past historic homes and tall sailing ships, keeping an eye out for the resident seal, dolphins, and native sea stars. This adventure offers a rarely seen perspective for unique photos of Hobart. Your expert guides will provide paddling tips and information throughout the tour.
Discover Hobart's colonial roots on an extensive 2-hour small-group walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will explore significant locations like the historic waterfront, Salamanca Place, and Hunter Street, viewing the city's best Georgian and Victorian architecture. Hear wonderful stories about the convicts, explorers, and entrepreneurs who built this picturesque city.
Discover Tasmania’s coastal beauty and maritime history on a small-group boat cruise down the Derwent River from Hobart. This tour takes you to the historic Iron Pot Lighthouse and Betsey Island, with views of Mount Wellington and the Shot Tower. Your expert local guide will share tales of early shipwrecks, settlers, and sailors during your customized experience.
Take the official one-way shuttle bus to the summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, 1270 metres above Hobart. This flexible tour is perfect for active explorers, allowing you to make your own way back down. You can enjoy a rewarding 3-hour walk or an exhilarating 1-hour bike ride through diverse landscapes like fern gullies and eucalypt forests. Informative commentary is provided on the bus ride up.
On this morning tour from Hobart, you will journey north to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Derwent Valley. The tour includes a visit to the stunning Mt Field National Park. You will also explore the oldest trout hatchery in the Southern Hemisphere.
Discover the rich history of the iconic Cascade Brewery, which evolved from a humble mill by a stream to a beloved Tasmanian institution. On this tour, you will stand where past custodians stood and see what they saw. Join us as the tales of this historic site are tapped and its past is unbottled for you.
Designed for cruise ship passengers, this 90-minute coach tour offers an efficient exploration of Hobart's iconic sights. With a knowledgeable guide providing commentary, the planned itinerary takes you through historic Battery Point and past landmarks like the Cascade Brewery. The tour includes a designated stop at the Mount Nelson Signal Station for panoramic city vistas.
Dive into the tasty flavors of Tasmania’s capital on this walking food tour of Hobart’s waterfront and famous streets. You'll visit charming bakeries, family-run fishmongers, and delightful delis to sample uniquely Tasmanian treats. Savor everything from artisanal cheeses and award-winning meats to the freshest seafood while discovering the stories behind the passionate local producers.
Get a perfect introduction to Hobart on this personalized walking tour full of highlights and hidden treasures. Led by an expert host, you will explore Salamanca and Battery Point, meeting local brewers, distillers, and makers along the way. Learn the city's fascinating Indigenous and colonial history through informative tales, with morning or afternoon tea and standard admission expenses included.
No ships scheduled in port today.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Many main attractions are within walking distance of the cruise terminal at Macquarie Wharf. For others, taxis, ride-sharing services, and local buses are readily available near the terminal.
Must-see attractions include Salamanca Place (especially its Saturday Market), the historic Battery Point, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, and a ferry trip to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).
Try fresh Tasmanian seafood, particularly oysters and salmon, at restaurants along the waterfront near the port, or explore cafes and pubs in Salamanca Place for local produce and craft beers.
The local currency is Australian Dollar (1 USD = 1.53 AUD). ATMs are widely available in the city centre, a short walk from the port, and banks for currency exchange can be found in the main shopping areas like Elizabeth Street.
Cruises typically visit Hobart during warmer months (October to April) with average temperatures from 15-25°C (59-77°F); pack layers as weather can change quickly, including a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Nearby beaches like Long Beach in Sandy Bay or Nutgrove Beach are accessible via a short bus or taxi ride (around 10-15 minutes) and offer pleasant spots for a stroll.
Popular shore excursions include trips to MONA, historic Port Arthur, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, or kunanyi / Mount Wellington; both cruise line and independent tours are available, with independent options often providing more flexibility.
Salamanca Market (Saturdays) offers unique local crafts, art, and produce. For souvenirs, look for Tasmanian timber products, lavender items, woolens, or local gourmet foods and wines.
Consider a day trip to the historic town of Richmond (25 mins drive), the penal settlement of Port Arthur (90 mins drive), or explore the natural beauty of Bruny Island via ferry.
Hobart is Australia's second-oldest capital city, established in 1804, and is shadowed by the impressive kunanyi / Mount Wellington, which significantly influences its weather.
Overall cruises that visit Hobart are somewhat expensive compared to other itineraries. Cruises visiting Hobart during the the peak season of winter are much more expensive than the the low season of fall. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Hobart.
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