Wineglass Bay Cruises
Wineglass Bay Cruises offer an unforgettable way to experience the pristine wilderness of Freycinet National Park from the water. Gliding across the sapphire waters of the Tasman Sea, you’ll be treated to close-up views of the iconic pink granite peaks of the Hazards, secluded beaches, and the perfectly curved white-sand crescent of Wineglass Bay itself. These cruises combine stunning coastal scenery with wildlife spotting, local seafood, and insightful commentary about the area’s natural and cultural history.
Highlights & What to See
- Wineglass Bay – The cruise provides a unique perspective of this world-famous beach, revealing its perfect arc and the surrounding forested slopes.
- The Hazards – These dramatic pink granite mountains rise straight from the sea; you’ll cruise right past their base, with opportunities for photos of their striking colours and rugged shapes.
- Wildlife Encounters – Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, seabirds, and even migrating whales (May–November). The guides are excellent at spotting and interpreting animal behaviour.
- Seafood Feast – Most cruises include a delicious spread of fresh Tasmanian seafood, such as oysters, salmon, and rock lobster, often paired with local wines.
- Interpretive Commentary – The crew share stories of the area’s Aboriginal heritage, early European exploration, and the park’s ecology, adding depth to the visual spectacle.
Suggested Time to Spend
Wineglass Bay Cruises typically run for about 3 to 4 hours, making them a perfect half-day outing. If you’re staying in Coles Bay or Freycinet, you can easily combine a morning cruise with an afternoon walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout or a visit to the nearby Friendly Beaches. For a more relaxed day, opt for an afternoon cruise that finishes with golden light on the Hazards. Allow plenty of time before or after your cruise to explore the national park’s other highlights.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Freycinet National Park – Spend a day walking the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach circuit, or tackle the challenging but rewarding Mt Amos climb for panoramic views.
- Coles Bay – This laid-back coastal village is the gateway to the park; enjoy a meal at a local café or kayak on the tranquil waters of Great Oyster Bay.
- Bicheno – A short drive north, this charming fishing town is famous for its blowhole, penguin tours, and excellent seafood at The Lobster Shack.
- Freycinet Marine Farm – Located near Coles Bay, this is a great spot to taste freshly shucked oysters and mussels straight from the lease.
- Douglas-Apsley National Park – For a change of scenery, visit this inland park with its lush rainforest, waterfalls, and swimming holes – about 40 minutes’ drive.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Wineglass Bay — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Freycinet National Park — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Coles Bay — Tirin aka Takver - www.takver.com / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Bicheno — taken by uploader / Public domain
- Douglas-Apsley National Park — VirtualWolf from Sydney, Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0