Coles Bay: Wineglass Bay Adults-Only Cruise with Lunch

Planning a trip to Tasmania and curious about the best way to see Wineglass Bay? If you’re after a relaxed, adult-focused day on the water, this Wineglass Bay Adults-Only Cruise with Lunch might just be your perfect fit. We’ve looked into it carefully—so you don’t have to—and what stands out are the spectacular coastal views and the quality of the food and drinks.

What we particularly like is that this cruise offers a more intimate, quieter experience because it’s adults-only, giving you space to unwind without the noise of children. Plus, the expert commentary and wildlife sightings—dolphins, seals, and seabirds—add a layer of richness to the day.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is not suitable for children under 18, so if you’re traveling with family or young kids, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, as with many boat trips, the weather can impact your day—so flexibility is a good idea. This cruise appeals most to travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic outing with good food and drinks in a peaceful setting.

Key Points

• Adults-only cruise offers a tranquil, refined atmosphere for a relaxing day.
• Stunning views of Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet coast from the water are the highlights.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, seals, and various seabirds, adding a touch of magic.
• Gourmet lunch and local wines make for a tasty, indulgent experience.
• Sky Lounge provides a quiet, private space with top-deck access and panoramic views.
• The trip lasts around 4.5 hours, combining sightseeing, food, and relaxation in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Cruise

This cruise is designed to be a luxurious, adult-only escape out of Coles Bay, with a focus on comfort, scenery, and good company. You’ll depart from Freycinet National Park in the vessel Schouten Passage II, which boasts a sleek, comfortable design perfect for a leisurely day on the water.

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a relaxing atmosphere—the Sky Lounge, an adults-only area, offers privacy, comfort, and direct access to the bridge for those interested in a closer look at the boat operations. The top deck provides fabulous panoramic views, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Your cruise begins in earnest with a gentle glide along Coles Bay, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the iconic granite cliffs and the coastline’s rugged beauty. As the boat moves towards Wineglass Bay, you’ll hear informative commentary about the landmarks, wildlife, and the area’s history—our review quotes one traveler sharing that the captain’s insights were both helpful and humorous, adding to the enjoyment.

A major part of this experience is getting up close to wildlife. Reviewers consistently mention seals, dolphins, and sea eagles, with some lucky travelers even spotting whales or orcas. One described seeing seals, dolphins, eagles, and sea birds as “absolutely amazing,” emphasizing how wildlife sightings can make the trip memorable.

Scenic Highlights and Wildlife

The star of the show is, of course, Wineglass Bay, seen from the water, offering perspectives that are impossible to get from land. The boat’s vantage point reveals the bay’s true shape and scale, making it a favorite among reviewers. Plus, the coastline’s sheer granite cliffs and secluded coves create a picturesque backdrop—perfect for photography.

Wildlife sightings are frequent. Reviews mention seals, dolphins, whales, eagles, and seabirds, with many travelers saying that spotting these creatures was one of the trip’s biggest highlights. The boat’s movement can sometimes be choppy, so we recommend taking motion sickness precautions if you’re prone. One review specifically suggested bringing kwells.

Food and Drink: A Tasty Focus

One of the reasons this cruise gets such positive reviews is the quality of the food and beverages. You’ll enjoy a ploughman’s-style lunch, which includes freshly shucked oysters and other local produce, paired with local wines and beers—all included in the price. Reviewers describe the lunch as delicious, thoughtfully prepared, and generous, with some noting that the oysters were a particular highlight.

Morning tea kicks off the day with light snacks, making sure you’re fueled up for the scenic cruising ahead. Lunch is served in a relaxed, buffet-style setting, so you can enjoy your meal at your own pace. The inclusion of unlimited drinks—both wine and beer—means you can comfortably toast the spectacular scenery.

For those seeking a quieter, more upscale experience, the Sky Lounge offers a peaceful retreat with fabulous views and direct access to the bridge. Many reviews highlight the friendly, attentive crew who are happy to accommodate requests and keep the drinks flowing.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience: Service, Atmosphere, and Overall

From the moment you check in at 9:30 AM, it’s clear that Pennicott Wilderness Journeys aims to create a smooth, enjoyable experience. The boats are described as comfortable and clean, and the crew is consistently praised for being helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. Several reviews mention the crew’s genuine enthusiasm and ability to make guests feel well cared for.

One guest shared that “the staff were amazing and the views were incredible,” while another noted that “the crew went above and beyond” to assist those with mobility issues, walking aids, or motion sickness. This attentive service adds a lot to the overall experience, especially when combined with the informative commentary and the relaxed, adult-only setting.

Privacy and Atmosphere

The Sky Lounge is a real perk for those looking for quiet, uninterrupted views and a bit of privacy. It’s an adults-only space (18+), offering a more refined environment compared to the downstairs areas. Reviewers often recommend sitting upstairs for the best views and a more inclusive, tranquil atmosphere.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While this cruise is a wonderful outing, keep in mind a few practical points:

• Weather dependent: The trip may be canceled or altered due to weather, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.
• Bring your ID or passport: To check in and for identification purposes.
• Motion sickness: The waters can be choppy, and a number of reviews suggest taking kwells or other motion sickness remedies, especially if you’re sensitive.
• Limited to adults: Under 18s are not allowed, so avoid this if you’re traveling with kids.
• Timing: Check the available start times and reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best for those who appreciate scenic, tranquil environments and enjoy fine food and drinks. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers who want a peaceful, adult-focused day. If you’re keen on wildlife, spectacular coastal views, and a bit of luxury, this trip checks all those boxes.

It’s also suited for travelers who want an informative yet relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy the scenery. If you’re after a family-friendly adventure, you might want to look at other options, as this one is strictly for adults.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Coles Bay Wineglass Bay Adults-Only Cruise with Lunch offers a delightful combination of scenery, wildlife, and gourmet food. The reviews consistently highlight the friendly crew, stunning vistas, and high-quality lunch as standout features.

For those wanting a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of indulgence, this cruise delivers on many fronts. The adults-only setting makes it feel more exclusive and relaxed—perfect for those who want a quiet, scenic day out. The inclusion of local wines, oysters, and a comfortable deck means you get plenty of value for your money.

If you’re after a memorable day exploring Tasmania’s coast with good company, plenty of wildlife, and great food, this cruise should be on your list. Just remember, it’s weather-dependent and best suited for those who enjoy a peaceful, wine-and-dine experience in a beautiful setting.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
No, this experience is strictly for adults aged 18 and over, creating a calm, relaxed atmosphere ideal for grown-up travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and consider motion sickness prevention like kwells, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.

What is included in the price?
The fare covers the cruise itself, a ploughman’s lunch with oysters, and unlimited local wines and beers. Morning tea is also provided.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience is about 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Can I choose a specific departure time?
Yes, check the availability for your preferred start time, as different departures may be scheduled.

Is the Sky Lounge accessible to everyone?
No, the Sky Lounge is an adults-only area, so guests must be 18 or older to enter.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The cruise is subject to weather conditions. Cancellations are possible, but you’ll be notified as early as possible with options for a full refund or rescheduling.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and gourmet indulgence—especially suited for those seeking a peaceful, adult-only escape. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic getaway, or just craving a quiet day on the water, it’s a solid choice with many happy reviews backing it up.

You can check availability for your dates here: