Hobart: Ultimate Seafood Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran

If you’ve been dreaming of tasting some of Tasmania’s finest seafood while enjoying a relaxing day on the water, this Hobart seafood cruise might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t personally taken the trip, but based on reviews and the detailed descriptions, it’s clear this experience offers a well-rounded combination of fresh food, beautiful scenery, and friendly guides.

What really stands out is how much fresh seafood is involved — over 18 different dishes—and the chance to see some of it wild-harvested right before your eyes. Plus, the spacious catamaran promises a comfortable, stable ride that’s suitable for most travelers. That said, it’s worth noting that this cruise isn’t designed for children or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

The experience seems ideal for food lovers, adults seeking a leisurely day on the water, and anyone wanting a taste of Tasmania’s seafood bounty. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth culinary experience with a scenic backdrop, this cruise ticks quite a few boxes.

Key Points

• Fresh seafood: Sample 7 species including abalone, lobster, oysters, and more, with dishes prepared on board.
• Wild harvest: Two of the seafood types are diver wild-harvested while you watch, adding an extra level of freshness.
• Comfortable setting: A large, stable catamaran with open plan seating, heated/cooled main cabin, and outdoor decks.
• Expert guides: Owned and operated by local commercial fishermen/women, offering insight into the seafood and waters.
• All-inclusive drinks and snacks: Tasmanian wines, beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic options, plus a fruit and cheese platter and a freshly made cake.
• Limited group size: Small tours with only 6 participants, making for an intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hobart Seafood Cruise

Setting Out from Hobart’s Waterfront

The adventure begins at Elizabeth St Pier, where the two-storey white catamaran called Cuttlefish awaits. It’s easy to find — just look for it near Fish Frenzy and peer into the water. The location’s great because it’s right in the heart of Hobart, making it simple to access and giving you a chance to soak in the lively waterfront atmosphere before heading out.

The Vessel and Its Comforts

The cruise is aboard a custom-built spacious catamaran designed for Tasmania’s waterways. It’s noticeably larger and more stable than many other vessels, which is a big plus if you’re prone to seasickness. We’ve heard from travelers that this stability makes a difference — one reviewer said, “It was one of the very few times I felt completely comfortable on a boat.”

Inside, the open plan main cabin offers heating and cooling—perfect for comfort regardless of the weather. You can sit inside or relax on the three outdoor decks, enjoying unobstructed views of the water and coastline. There are also two bathrooms onboard, which is a thoughtful touch for longer trips.

The Food and Seafood Experience

The main event: seafood tasting. Over the 4.5 hours, you’ll be presented with more than 18 dishes showcasing seven types of seafood. This includes abalone, rock lobster, oysters, mussels, sea urchin, periwinkles, and Tasmanian Atlantic salmon. What’s impressive is that two of these, like the diver-harvested seafood, are shown off as they are wild-harvested, giving you a real glimpse into Tasmania’s fishing life.

Travelers rave about the generous servings — one review mentions “more than enough portions,” and leftovers are common. For many, the highlight is not just the quality but the variety. Each seafood type is prepared as a degustation, with multiple dishes that highlight the flavors and textures.

The onboard team also serves a fruit and cheese platter and a freshly made cake. The desserts seem to be a standout, with one reviewer describing the cake as “mind-blowing,” and the cheese and fruit plates as a welcome addition to the savory seafood.

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Beverages and Atmosphere

Included in the cruise are Tasmanian wines, beers, ciders, and non-alcoholic drinks. This makes for a laid-back, social environment where you can sip your beverage of choice as you take in the scenery. The crew is described as friendly and attentive, constantly checking if everyone needs top-ups or assistance, which contributes to a relaxed vibe.

Wild Harvesting and Guide Insights

A unique aspect of this cruise is the involvement of local commercial fishermen and women. They’re passionate about their work and happy to share their knowledge, making the experience feel authentic. Watching the divers harvest seafood live adds a special touch, giving you a real connection to the region’s fishing traditions.

The Views and Overall Experience

Being on the water provides stunning views of Hobart’s waterfront, and the open decks are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The size and stability of the boat mean no shakiness or discomfort, even for those sensitive to seasickness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is best suited for adults who appreciate good food and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s not designed for children or people with mobility problems, due to the nature of the vessel and the focus on seafood tasting. If you’re after a gastronomic adventure in a scenic setting, you’ll find it hard to beat this cruise.

Price and Value Considerations

While the exact cost isn’t listed here, the value lies in the comprehensive tasting experience, the inclusion of multiple drinks, and the personalized guidance from local fishermen. The small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd. If you’re a seafood lover or want an authentic taste of Tasmania, this cruise probably offers excellent bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts

This Hobart seafood cruise offers a taste of the region’s seafood bounty in a setting that’s both comfortable and scenic. The diver-harvested seafood, generous servings, and friendly guides make it stand out. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a culinary journey, paired with beautiful water views and local insights.

However, it’s important to remember that it’s an adults-only experience, so if you’re traveling with kids or need accessible options, this might not be the right fit. It’s best suited for those who want a laid-back, gourmet day on the water and don’t mind spending a few hours indulging in Tasmania’s seafood treasures.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is geared toward adults. It’s not designed for children, and the nature of the seafood tasting and boat setup makes it unsuitable for young travelers.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for about 4.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy multiple dishes, drinks, and the scenery.

What kind of seafood will I taste?
You’ll sample seven species including abalone, rock lobster, oysters, mussels, sea urchin, periwinkles, and Atlantic salmon. Two types are wild-harvested live during the cruise.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the cruise includes Tasmanian wines, beer, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages. You can sip these as you enjoy the meal and the views.

Is the boat stable and comfortable?
Yes, the vessel is a large, custom-built catamaran with a stable design. It features heated/cooled indoor seating and outdoor decks to relax on.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, outside food or drinks are not allowed, as everything is provided on board.

What should I bring?
Just personal medication; dressing appropriately for the weather is also smart since you might spend time outside.

Is there any physical activity involved?
No, there’s no swimming, diving, or fishing allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

This seafood cruise in Hobart looks like a fantastic way to spend a relaxing day, truly savoring Tasmania’s marine flavors while enjoying scenic views on a comfortable boat. If you’re into good food, local stories, and a cozy waterborne atmosphere, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: