Cruises to Hobart
Australia
Hobart
Abounding with cultural attractions, natural wonders, and delicious local delicacies, Hobart is an irresistible Australian cruise destination. The charming capital of Tasmania has one of the finest deepwater harbours in the world, alongside a colourful, vibrant waterfront that bustles with all sorts of activity. The ideal cruise destination for cultural aficionados, history buffs, and nature lovers alike, there’s something for everyone in Hobart.
Make the most of your time in this bustling Tasmanian city by booking into a P&O Shore Tour and ticking off all the highlights. From Tasmanian gourmet food tours that will tempt your tastebuds to historic walking tours that reveal the city’s long and rich history, there’s plenty to see and do in Hobart. What’s more, it’s the perfect springboard into other Tasmanian adventures in Bruny Island, the Huon Valley, and pristine rural surrounds.
Find the meeting point between old & new
Located between Mount Wellington and the River Derwent, Hobart is a city with a long and fascinating history. In 1803, a small party under the command of Lieutenant John Bowen arrived from the mainland with instructions to form Australia’s second European settlement. Yet it wasn’t until a year later that the Hobart township was officially established on the eastern bank of the Derwent. Within a few months, the settlers relocated to Sullivan’s Cove on the Western shore, where Hobart’s main waterfront area is still located today.
Learn all about this fascinating past and discover the stories of early settlers on the Hobart Historic Walking Tour Shore Tour. Pass St David’s Cathedral and the old gaol and treasury, and marvel at the many beautifully preserved sandstone buildings. Along the way, hear stories of colourful characters from troublesome military officers to Lady Jane Franklin, the wife of the 1840s governor of Tasmania and the first European woman to climb to the top of Mount Wellington.
Then, return to the present by visiting the world-renowned Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), dining in one of the city’s many restaurants, or shopping till you drop at a local boutique. Explore the waterfront Salamanca Markets to experience Hobart’s unique blend of heritage and contemporary crafts, culture, and artisan stores.
At A Glance
Population
200,501 (2011 census)
Language
English
Government
Democratic
Currency
Australian Dollar
Enjoy breathtaking sights & delights
Fancy a walk on the wild side? Join the Huon Valley & Tahune AirWalk Shore Tour and glide above the forest on the longest treetop walk in the world. With orchards, vineyards, and the winding Huon River, this region offers some of the most breathtaking views and freshest air in Tasmania. Walk amongst the treetops on the Tahune Airwalk, which stands 30 metres above the forest floor. Follow the walk to its cantilevered end, where you’ll be rewarded by stunning views of the Huon River from 50 metres above its surface.
For a true Tasmanian experience, book into the Bruny Island Explorer Shore Tour and head to Bruny Island Neck. There, climb the timber stairs to the Neck Lookout for stunning 360-degree views. If you’re lucky, you may even spot an elusive fairy penguin among the sand dunes! Afterward, drop into the Bruny Island Cruises Seafood restaurant for a delicious lunch.
Alternatively, unleash your inner gourmet on the aptly-named Tempting Taste Trail Shore Tour. Leading you through rural countryside and along pristine waters, this tour gives you a chance to sample local delicacies including wild abalone, oysters, and high quality whisky. Visit passionate producers along the Coal River and fill up on gourmet cheeses, handmade chocolates, and great coffee, then marvel at historic Salamanca, Battery Point, and Sandy Bay on your return trip.
Find a P&O Hobart Cruise
P&O cruises to Hobart from a number of our Australian homeports. Choose from 5 and 7 night departures from Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Hobart Shore Tours
Most Popular
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary & Historic Richmond
HBA025
4 hours
Adult: $109.99pp
Child: $99.99pp
Must See
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
Evening at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
HBA080
4 hours
Adult: $189.99pp
Child: $149.99pp
What to See in Hobart
Battery Point
Battery Point is Hobart’s heritage precinct and offers a fascinating insight into the city’s maritime history. Visit the various churches, museums, and the wonderfully preserved Georgian cottages of Arthur’s Circus on a guided walking tour, or go exploring independently.
Constitution Dock
Constitution Dock is the finishing line for the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. It’s also a great place to buy seafood from one of the local floating vendors or establishments on land - whichever you choose, the seafood here is as fresh as it comes!
Salamanca Place
Bargain hunters will love Salamanca Place. Formerly warehouses for the port of Hobart, the precinct’s gorgeous sandstone buildings have been converted into restaurants, galleries, craft shops, and offices, and are great to explore at any time.
Explore the surrounds
Get out of town and experience Tasmania’s spectacular scenery, wildlife, and history on one of our tours. Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Wellington, visit Mount Field National Park, walk amongst the treetops at Tahune Airwalk in the Huon Valley, or see Australia’s oldest Catholic Church in the historic town of Richmond.
More About Hobart
Docking
Your ship will dock at Macquarie Wharf, off Hunter Street and on the opposite side of Sullivans Cove.
Getting Around
Taxis are available outside the perimeter of the wharf security area. The wharf area is a comfortable ten-minute walk to the town centre.
Dining
Hobart is home to an abundance of restaurants, specialist food shops, and bars. Spend an evening dining out and enjoy breathtaking water views.
Please note that quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products, and sandwiches to be taken off the ship. However, commercially packaged confectionery, chips, and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.
Shopping
Hobart has many unique, locally-made souvenirs on offer, including woollen goods, ceramics, hand-blown glass, woodwork, and leather goods. Some local vendors sell gifts and souvenirs inside the pier area, and the Cat and Fiddle Arcade and Salamanca Place are two popular locations to shop in town. Elizabeth, Liverpool, Collins, and Murray Streets also offer various boutiques.
Climate
Hobart’s average maximum temperature is over 20 degrees Celsius in summer and below 12 degrees Celsius in winter. Its average minimum temperature is about 12 degrees Celsius in summer and 5 degrees Celsius in winter. Notably, Hobart receives the most daylight hours of any Australian capital city during summer.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. ATMs can provide currency to foreign card holders.
Communication
Mobile coverage is generally available.
What to Wear Ashore
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat-soled shoes, lightweight clothing and a hat. You are also advised to bring sunscreen and bottled water.
Shore Tours
Our Shore Tours can help you make the most out of your time in Hobart. Tours can be booked before departure via Cruise Control or onboard at the Shore Tours desk, and are subject to availability.
Environment
During your time ashore, we ask that you dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.
