In short
- The lookout walk takes 1 to 1.5 hours and involves a steep climb.
- The 4.5-hour cruise requires no physical effort and departs from Coles Bay.
- Hikers see the beach from above, while cruisers get water-level views of the Hazards.
In this article
Many visitors struggle to choose between hiking the trails of Freycinet National Park and taking the scenic eco-cruise. The walk offers the famous aerial view of the bay. The boat reveals sea caves, marine wildlife, and remote coastal cliffs.
How hard is the Wineglass Bay walk?
The walk to the lookout is a moderately steep 2.6 km return trip.
The Grade 3 trail takes 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. If you continue down to the beach, the total time increases to 2.5 to 3 hours. The return walk from the sand is quite steep. Ensure you carry enough drinking water, as park sources are limited.
What does the Wineglass Bay cruise involve?
The 4.5-hour eco-cruise provides a relaxed journey down the Freycinet Peninsula coastline.
You travel on a 150-seat catamaran named Schouten Passage II. The boat departs from 61 Jetty Road in Coles Bay. Passengers enjoy open viewing decks and smooth travel. This option requires no physical exertion.
Which option has better views?
The walk provides the famous elevated view, while the cruise offers a water-level perspective.
Hiking through the coastal woodland to the lookout gives you the iconic overhead shot of the curving white-sand beach. The cruise shows dramatic pink granite cliffs and blowholes. You will also see sea caves that you cannot view from the trail.
Which choice is better for seeing wildlife?
The cruise gives you a much higher chance of spotting marine animals.
On the water, you can see dolphins, Australian fur seals, and little penguins around the Schouten Island Group. If you visit between September and December or May and July, you might spot migrating whales. Walkers typically see sea eagles and forest wildlife.
How do the costs compare?
The walk is free with a valid park pass, while the cruise costs from $165 AUD per adult.
A 24-hour vehicle park pass costs approximately $47.70 AUD and covers up to 8 occupants. This pass is strictly required for entry to Freycinet National Park. The eco-cruise price is a separate cost on top of your travel expenses. Prices can change based on the booking platform.
How much time do I need for each?
The cruise requires a half-day commitment, while the walk takes as little as an hour.
The 4.5-hour cruise takes up a large portion of your day. The 1.5-hour lookout walk leaves plenty of time to explore other sections of the park. If you have a full day, you can comfortably do both activities.
Questions travellers ask
Where do Wineglass Bay cruises leave from?
Cruises depart from the booking office located at 61 Jetty Road in Coles Bay. Free parking is available near the jetty for all cruise guests.
How much is a pass for Freycinet National Park?
A daily vehicle park pass costs approximately $47.70 AUD. This pass is valid for 24 hours and covers up to 8 occupants in a single vehicle.
Do you have to pay to go to Wineglass Bay?
Yes. You must purchase a valid Tasmania National Parks Pass to enter Freycinet National Park, even if you are just hiking to the lookout.
