Hobart to Peppermint Bay: Cruise & Degustation Lunch

Summary

Sea breezes, Tasmanian flavors and a leisurely cruise from Hobart

You’ll drift along Tasmania’s D’Entrecasteaux Channel from Hobart on a luxury catamaran, spot wildlife with your local guide, stroll garden paths in Woodbridge, then settle in for a long degustation lunch with Huon Valley produce and Bruny Island seafood before cruising home with new stories—and maybe even new friends.

What’s the experience like?

“I can’t believe we actually saw a sea eagle,” someone said, and I just grinned — I’d been squinting at the water for dolphins the whole time. The Peppermint Bay Cruise from Hobart started way more quietly than I expected; there was this low hum of the catamaran as we drifted out past the old piers. Our guide (I think his name was Dave?) kept pointing out these weird little stories about the D’Entrecasteaux Channel — like how the tides have their own moods. The air smelled salty but also sort of green, if that makes sense. It’s hard to describe unless you’ve been on Tasmanian water in late morning.

We reached Woodbridge after maybe an hour and a half — honestly, I lost track because I got caught up just watching the coastline slide by. There was this moment when everyone fell quiet except for some kid giggling at the wind. When we stepped onto land, it felt softer underfoot than I expected (maybe just relief after sitting). We wandered through gardens with herbs you could actually smell before lunch. That lunch… still thinking about it: Huon Valley veggies, Bruny Island oysters, bread that tasted like someone cared about it. The chef came out for a second — not to make a fuss, just to check if anyone needed anything else. Li laughed when I tried to pronounce something on the menu; probably butchered it.

The wine was local (of course), and there were these little surprises between courses — one was a pickled thing I couldn’t identify but liked anyway. After eating way too much, we wandered around again before heading back to the boat. The ride back felt slower somehow; maybe it was just the food or maybe everyone was full and happy and letting the scenery do its thing. Someone ordered a Tasmanian whisky and passed it around (not sure if that’s allowed but nobody seemed to mind). So yeah — if you’re looking for a day trip from Hobart that’s more about slowing down than ticking boxes, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Peppermint Bay Cruise and Lunch

• Depart Hobart waterfront at 10:30am
• Cruise D’Entrecasteaux Channel 1–1.5 hours
• Learn about region’s history and landmarks
• Spot wildlife: seals, sea eagles, dolphins
• Arrive in Woodbridge and stroll grounds
• Enjoy degustation lunch with local produce
• Sample local wines, craft beers, surprises
• Cruise back to Hobart on catamaran
• Indulge in Tasmanian whisky or digestif
• Return ashore at 4pm

Top questions

How long is the Peppermint Bay Cruise from Hobart?

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, departing at 10:30am and returning around 4pm.

Is lunch included on the Peppermint Bay Cruise?

Yes, a multi-course degustation lunch featuring seasonal Tasmanian produce is included.

Are drinks included during lunch?

Local wines and craft beers are available during lunch; some beverages may be at additional cost.

Is pickup included for this day trip from Hobart?

The cruise departs directly from the Hobart waterfront; hotel pickup is not specified.

Can infants or children join the Peppermint Bay Cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can join and there are specialized infant seats available.

Is this cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas including transportation are wheelchair accessible.

What wildlife might I see on this cruise?

You may spot seals, sea eagles, dolphins or even whales along the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.

Does the tour run every day?

No, cruises operate every Sunday only.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by luxury catamaran along Tasmania’s southern coast with restroom access onboard, a leisurely stroll through gardens in Woodbridge before settling in for a seasonal degustation lunch—plus local wines or craft beers—before cruising back to Hobart in comfort by late afternoon.