Across the Tasman Sea lies an island steeped in stories, shaped by time, and wrapped in some of the most dramatic landscapes in Australasia. With nearly half of its land preserved through national parks and World Heritage status, Tasmania is a wonderland of pristine wilderness, rare wildlife, and colourful history. From its wild western edges to the soft, white-sand beaches of the east, from the fertile northern plains to the heritage-rich cities in the south – Tasmania offers something for everyone.
This carefully curated 14-day Bay Tours adventure is a journey that gets under the skin of this remarkable island and connects you with the very best it has to offer.
Day 1: We begin with an afternoon flight from Hawke’s Bay to Auckland and overnight at the Novotel Auckland Airport Hotel.
Day 2: An early morning direct flight delivers us to Hobart, Tasmania’s picturesque state capital. After an introductory city tour and lunch at Richmond, we check in at our stylish base – the centrally located Crowne Plaza Hobart Hotel – with panoramic views and superb amenities.
Day 3: We journey along the dramatic Tasman Peninsula to the hauntingly beautiful Port Arthur Historic Site. A guided tour and scenic harbour cruise provide a deep dive into this evocative chapter of Australia’s convict past.
Day 4: Today you have a FREE DAY to soak up Hobart at your own pace. Stroll to the iconic Salamanca Market, explore Battery Point’s charming streets, or enjoy one of the city’s museums and gardens.
Day 5: Today, we follow the D’Entrecasteaux Channel south through the Huon Valley to discover hidden gems like Crawleighwood Gardens, the Channel Museum, and the historic Shot Tower – with plenty of stunning scenery en route.
Day 6: We farewell Hobart and head inland via the breathtaking Central Highlands. A highlight is The Wall in the Wilderness, a stunning hand-carved narrative in Huon Pine. From there, we continue to Strahan on the west coast – a frontier town nestled on the shores of Macquarie Harbour and our base for the next 2 nights.
Day 7: Today it’s a spectacular cruise into the heart of Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness. Glide up the mirror-like Gordon River, walk amongst ancient rainforest at Heritage Landing, and learn about convict life on Sarah Island. In the evening, enjoy an open-air performance of The Ship That Never Was.
Day 8: Travel through rugged landscapes and highland plains to reach Cradle Mountain. We explore the famous Dove Lake and Waldheim Chalet during a fascinating guided tour before continuing to Launceston’s elegant Country Club Of Tasmania where we’ll stay for 2 nights.
Day 9: It’s an early start as we head west to Stanley, a quaint fishing village nestled beneath a volcanic outcrop known as “The Nut”. There’s time to explore and ride the chairlift before we return through Deloraine to view the exquisite ‘Yarns Artwork in Silk’ exhibition.
Day 10: This morning we wander the stunning Cataract Gorge, one of Launceston’s star attractions. We then travel to the east coast, pausing at the remarkable Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees and scenic St Columba Falls before arriving in the seaside town of St Helens and our accommodation, Panorama Hotel.
Day 11: We follow the coast south, stopping at East Coast Natureworld in Bicheno where we meet Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, and more. After a seafood lunch, we visit the ocean blowholes and indulge in local ice cream before returning to Hobart and the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
Day 12: No trip to Hobart is complete without a ferry ride up the Derwent River to MONA – the Museum of Old and New Art. Spend time exploring this architectural and artistic marvel that continues to provoke and inspire.
Day 13: A last FREE DAY in Hobart lets you revisit favourite spots or discover new ones at your own pace. In the evening, we share a farewell dinner together in a local waterfront restaurant.
Day 14: After breakfast, we depart Tasmania, returning to Auckland for onward travel back to Hawke’s Bay.
Forget what you think you know about Tasmania. This is a journey of immersion, not just observation – crafted to reveal the island’s spirit, character, and charm.
Couple this exciting itinerary with the warmth, care, and service that regular Tour Club members know so well, and Exploring Tasmania 2026 promises to be an unforgettable Bay Tours experience.
To participate in this tour you must be able to get On/Off boats, get On/Off 4WD vehicles, ok with walking on undulating/uneven ground, extended periods on your feet. Feel free to discuss this with us if you’re unsure.
