Wineglass Bay And Maria Island Wildlife Scenic Flight From Hobart

If you’re considering a half-day adventure in Tasmania that combines incredible views, wildlife encounters, and local flavors, this Wineglass Bay and Maria Island Scenic Flight might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it seems to offer something quite special for travelers eager for a taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty—all from a bird’s-eye view.

What we love about this experience is how it packs in so much into just a few hours. First, there’s the chance to see famous landmarks like Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park from above—something that’s often more breathtaking than on the ground. Second, the opportunity to land on Maria Island, explore its wildlife and pristine beaches, and enjoy a picnic with local produce makes it feel quite authentic and intimate.

One consideration to keep in mind is the weather dependency—since this tour involves flying, poor weather could mean a reschedule or cancellation. It’s also worth noting that the cost of $357.90 per person might seem steep for some, but the combination of aerial views, wildlife encounters, and included meals adds value if you’re after a compact yet memorable experience.

This tour suits those who love a quick but comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s coast, want to see wildlife in their natural habitat, or simply want to enjoy stunning scenic views that can’t be captured from the ground. It’s especially good for travelers short on time but eager to maximize their trip.

Key Points

• Spectacular aerial views of Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay
• Opportunity to land on Maria Island and see native wildlife
• Includes a lunch featuring fresh Tasmanian produce and local wine
• A well-organized half-day trip ideal for busy travelers
• Suitable for most travelers, with weather being a key factor
• Small group size (max 22) ensures a personal experience

The Experience in Detail

The Scenic Flight: A Bird’s-Eye Perspective on Tasmania’s Iconic Coastline

Starting at Par Avion in Cambridge, the tour kicks off around 11:00 am. From the moment you settle into the aircraft, you’re in for a treat. The flight itself is a highlight—gliding over Tasmania’s east coast, you’ll catch sights of Freycinet Peninsula, with its striking pink granite mountains. The views are truly unforgettable, and as many reviewers note, seeing Wineglass Bay from above makes it even more spectacular. One traveler described it as “something truly unforgettable,” emphasizing how this perspective elevates the experience beyond usual sightseeing.

Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park

The highlight for many is the aerial view of Wineglass Bay, often heralded as Australia’s most iconic white-sand beach. The flight offers a vantage point that few get on land, revealing the bay’s delicate curve and the surrounding rugged terrain. According to reviews, the scenery is “stunning,” and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a photography buff or simply love a good view, this part of the trip makes for a memorable photo op.

Maria Island: Wildlife, Beaches, and Natural Beauty

After soaking in the coast from above, the plane lands on Maria Island, a pristine natural reserve that feels like stepping into a different world. Here, the group stretches their legs and ventures into one of Tasmania’s best wildlife spots. The reviews consistently praise the opportunity to see wallabies, kangaroos, and wombats in their natural surroundings—something many travelers highlight as a highlight. One reviewer enthused, “Surrounded by wallabies, kangaroos, and even a wombat,” making the landing and exploration sound incredibly rewarding.

A Picnic with Local Flavors

What makes this tour stand out is the fine balance between adventure and relaxation. While on Maria Island, you’ll enjoy a bountiful Tasmanian picnic—a thoughtful touch that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. With fresh produce and local wine included, it’s a chance to savor Tasmania’s culinary offerings while taking in spectacular views. Multiple reviews rave about the quality of the food, with one saying it “exceeded expectations.”

Guided Insight and Small Group Comfort

Throughout the trip, a professional guide provides live commentary, sharing insights about the landscapes, wildlife, and local history. With a maximum of 22 travelers, the group feels intimate and personal, allowing for better interaction with the guide and a more relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews point out how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience comfortable and engaging.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Roughly 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day commitment.
• Cost: At $357.90 per person, it’s a premium experience, but many find the value in the combination of flight, wildlife, and food.
• Booking: Most people book well in advance (about 7 months on average), which suggests high demand.
• Weather Dependency: Since the flight is weather-dependent, it’s worth keeping flexible plans in case of cancellations.
• Additional Fees: Remember that a national park pass of A$47.75 per person is required if you plan to explore on your own after the flight.

The Flight Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of the pilots, with one praising Michael for being “very informative and professional,” and another calling Jonah’s commentary “great.” The flights are described as smooth, and landing on Maria Island as “very smooth,” which speaks to the quality of the operation.

Wildlife Encounters: Authentic and Up Close

Many reviews highlight the wildlife sightings—seeing wombats, wallabies, and kangaroos in their natural habitats is a big draw. One reviewer mentioned it was “surrounded by wildlife,” making it a memorable and authentic encounter.

Food and Beverage: A Highlight

The included lunch and Tasmanian wine are frequently praised. Travelers love the opportunity to enjoy local flavors in a stunning setting—many say it “exceeded expectations,” adding to the overall value of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those wanting a compact but comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s coast and wildlife. It’s especially well-suited to travelers with limited time but who still want a memorable adventure. If you’re a nature lover, foodie, or photography enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the combination of aerial views, wildlife encounters, and local flavors.

Keep in mind that weather plays a big role—if there’s poor weather, your plans might need to shift, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts

This scenic flight offers a rare chance to see Tasmania’s highlights from the sky, combining breathtaking views of Wineglass Bay and Freycinet with a landing on Maria Island, where the wildlife and scenery are equally captivating. The inclusion of a picnic with Tasmanian produce and wine makes it feel like a properly indulgent yet relaxed experience.

It’s a bit of a splurge, but many reviews confirm that the quality of the flight, the wildlife sightings, and the scenic beauty justify the price. If you’re after a memorable, visually stunning, and somewhat luxurious way to experience Tasmania, this could be just the ticket.

Remember, if you’re traveling with children or prefer more flexibility, this might require some planning due to weather dependency and group size. But for most travelers looking for an unforgettable half-day adventure, it’s a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention that children need to be accompanied by an adult, and since it’s a scenic flight and land exploration, it’s generally suitable for kids who can handle a small plane ride and outdoor walking.

How long does the entire experience last? The trip takes approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including the flight, landing, wildlife exploration, and lunch.

What is included in the price? The package covers the scenic flight, live commentary, a professional guide, snacks, coffee or tea, and a lunch featuring Tasmanian produce and wine.

Do I need to pay for park entry separately? Yes, a National Park Pass of A$47.75 per person is required for Maria Island and isn’t included in the ticket price.

What’s the best time of year to do this? While not explicitly stated, most scenic flights are best in clear weather seasons, and reviews from November and February indicate good flying conditions during late spring and summer.

How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 22 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure—combining aerial views, wildlife, and local cuisine—it’s definitely worth considering. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging wildlife encounters, and a relaxed picnic makes it a memorable slice of Tasmania’s natural beauty.