Launceston, situated in Northern Tasmania, is a charming city known for its beautiful landscapes and stunning waterways. There is no better way to discover the city’s charm than by taking a boat tour. A popular tourist destination, Launceston has many options for boat tours, making it’s tough for visitors to choose the right one. In this post, we’ve put together a list of the 5 best boat tours in Launceston that will take you on an exhilarating journey to discover the city’s history, wildlife, and natural beauty. Let’s explore these amazing boat tours that Launceston has to offer!
The 5 Best Boat Tours in Launceston
- Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise
- Launceston: 4-Hour Batman Bridge Luncheon Cruise
- 2.5 hour Afternoon Discovery Cruise including Cataract Gorge departs at 1: 30 pm
- 2.5 Hour Morning Discovery Cruise including sailing into the Cataract Gorge
- 2.50 hour Afternoon Discovery Cruise including Cataract Gorge departing at 3 pm
The 5 Best Boat Tours in Launceston
1. Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise
Cruise into the magical Cataract Gorge and through Launceston’s riverfront precinct on this 2.5-hour morning or afternoon discovery cruise. You will head north past Tamar Island observing historical buildings such as the St. Mathias Church and the Rosevears Pub. Throughout your tour you will enjoy morning tea, a fresh fruit selection, local wine, and a beer tasting.
Experience a relaxed variety of life as you cruise past charming riverfront communities, vineyards, and farms and onward to the historical Rosevears and Windemere districts. Listen to live commentary from your skipper about the folk law and history of the areas seen on the cruise. This fascinating collection of history, fauna, and people at work, rest, and play makes for an absorbing narrative. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the best that Launceston has to offer on this unforgettable 2.5-hour morning or afternoon discovery cruise.
2. Launceston: 4-Hour Batman Bridge Luncheon Cruise
Cruise the magnificent Cataract Gorge and the historic Tamar Valley on this 4-hour luncheon cruise. Marvel at the natural beauty of the river and its surrounds as you glide past quaint riverfront communities, vineyards, and farms. Discover the region’s rich history, with tales of bushrangers, explorers, and gold diggers. Keep an eye out for native water birds that call the river’s natural coves and inlets home. Witness the impressive Batman Bridge and the iconic Cataract Gorge. This tour offers an ideal way to explore the stunning Launceston riverfront precinct and beyond. Join this cruise and immerse yourself in the beauty of Tasmania’s Tamar Valley.
3. 2.5 hour Afternoon Discovery Cruise including Cataract Gorge departs at 1: 30 pm
Explore the picturesque Cataract Gorge on a 2.5-hour afternoon discovery cruise departing at 1:30 pm from Launceston. Sail leisurely through the magnificent river sides while enjoying stunning views of Tamar Island, Windemere, and Rosevears. On-board, indulge in a delectable afternoon tea and sample a selection of Tasmanian beers and wines while the live commentary keeps you abreast with interesting facts about the areas you pass. Don’t miss the highlights of the gorge as you spot landmarks like Tamar Island from the water. The tour includes coffee and/or tea, onboard restrooms, and WiFi services. The meeting point is located at Home Point Pde (Tiger Bus Stop), Launceston TAS 7250 Australia, and the tour ends back at the meeting point. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation. Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Cataract Gorge from the water.
4. 2.5 Hour Morning Discovery Cruise including sailing into the Cataract Gorge
This 2.5 hour morning discovery cruise takes you on an adventure through the stunning Tamar Valley. You’ll begin your journey in Launceston and sail through the breathtaking Cataract Gorge, capturing breathtaking photos along the way in the picturesque riverside districts of Windermere and Rosevears. This family-friendly cruise offers discounted tickets for children and is fully wheelchair accessible. Take in the beautiful scenery while enjoying a complimentary tasting of local beers and wines, as well as coffee, tea, and snacks. The tour starts at Home Point Pde (Tiger Bus Stop) in Launceston at 10:00 AM and ends at the same location. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, making this a hassle-free experience.
5. 2.50 hour Afternoon Discovery Cruise including Cataract Gorge departing at 3 pm
Put your feet up and enjoy a relaxed 2.5-hour afternoon cruise on the Tamar River from Launceston. This cruise takes you through Launceston’s riverfront precinct, past Tamar Island, and into the stunning Cataract Gorge. Take in the views while enjoying some afternoon tea and snacks, including cakes, muffins, fruit, and tea or coffee. This cruise is suitable for both tourists and locals, and both kids and adults will enjoy cruising by catamaran. The meeting point is at Home Point Pde (Tiger Bus Stop) in Launceston, with the tour departing at 3 pm and ending back at the meeting point. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with transportation also being wheelchair accessible. Join this cruise for a relaxing afternoon and enjoy the views of Launceston from a different angle.
Top FAQs about Launceston
Launceston is a beautiful city located in the heart of Northern Tasmania. It is known for its stunning architecture, gorgeous gardens, and friendly locals. If you’re planning a trip to Launceston, there are many things you might want to know before you go. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Launceston.
1. What is the Best Time to Visit Launceston?
The best time to visit Launceston is during the summer season, which falls between December and February. The weather is warm and sunny, and there’s plenty of activities to do during this time, such as hiking or enjoying a picnic in the park. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting during the shoulder season, which falls between March and May or September and November. During this time, the weather is mild, and the accommodation and activities are often cheaper.
2. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Launceston?
Launceston has countless attractions that are worth checking out. Some of the top must-see attractions include:
- Cataract Gorge Reserve
- Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
- City Park
- Tamar Valley
- Boag’s Brewery
3. How Do I Get to Launceston?
Launceston has its own airport, so you can easily fly in from major cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Alternatively, you can drive to Launceston or take a bus or train. If you’re driving from Hobart, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach Launceston.
4. What is the Weather Like in Launceston?
Launceston has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it has mild temperatures and regular rainfall throughout the year. In the summer, temperatures range from 12°C to 25°C. In the winter, temperatures range from 2°C to 13°C.
5. What is the Local Cuisine in Launceston?
Launceston has a thriving food and wine scene, and there are many local delicacies that you must try during your visit. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Tasmanian seafood
- Scallop pies
- Wallaby fillets
- Blueberry pancakes
- Black truffle risotto
6. Where Can I Stay in Launceston?
Launceston has many accommodation options to suit a range of budgets and preferences. Some of the top-rated hotels in Launceston include:
- Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston
- Peppers Silo Hotel
- Best Western Plus Launceston
- Mantra Charles Hotel
- The Sebel Launceston
7. What are the Best Day Trips from Launceston?
There are many incredible day trip options from Launceston. Some of the best include:
- Bridestowe Lavender Estate
- Cradle Mountain
- Bay of Fires
- Wineglass Bay
- Bruny Island
8. How Do I Get Around Launceston?
Launceston has a reliable and affordable public transportation system. You can take a bus or taxi to get around the city. If you prefer to explore the city on your own, you can rent a car or hire a bike. Many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, so walking can also be an option.
9. Is Launceston a Safe City to Visit?
Launceston is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any other city, there are some areas that are best avoided, especially at night. It’s a good idea to stick to well-lit areas and to be aware of your surroundings.
10. What Should I Pack for My Trip to Launceston?
What you pack for your trip to Launceston largely depends on the time of year you’re visiting. In general, you should pack lightweight clothing for the summer months and warmer clothing for the winter months. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent. If you plan on hiking or spending time in nature, make sure to pack appropriate gear.
Conclusion
Launceston is a beautiful city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture, trying out new local delicacies, or simply relaxing in nature, Launceston has it all. By following the tips in this article, you can make the most of your trip to this charming city.
The 5 Best Boat Tours in Launceston: Frequently Asked Questions
Launceston is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Tasmania. It is famously known for its stunning natural scenery, especially along the Tamar River. If you’re planning to visit Launceston and want to explore the city and its surroundings in a unique way, then a boat tour is an excellent option to consider.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 5 best boat tours in Launceston that can help you decide which one to choose for your upcoming trip.
1. What are the 5 best boat tours in Launceston?
The 5 best boat tours in Launceston are:
- Tamar River Cruises
- Cataract Gorge River Cruises
- Tamar Odyssey
- Platypus House Tours
- Tamar Island Wetlands Centre Tours
2. What is the cost of these boat tours?
The cost of each boat tour varies depending on the tour operator, duration of the tour, and the number of passengers. However, generally, these boat tours range from AUD 30 to AUD 100 per person.
3. How long is each boat tour?
The duration of each boat tour differs from one operator to another. But, generally, these boat tours range from 1 to 4 hours. Tamar River Cruises and Cataract Gorge River Cruises have 1-hour long tours, while Tamar Odyssey has three different tours with durations ranging from 2 to 4 hours.
4. What kind of boats are used for these tours?
Most of these tours use different types of boats, including pontoon boats, catamarans, and traditional wooden boats. The type of boat used will depend on the tour route and the operator’s preference.
5. What should I bring for the boat tour?
It is recommended to come prepared for the boat tour by wearing comfortable clothing and shoes. You can also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. It’s always better to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenic views and some snacks or water to keep yourself hydrated.
6. Which tour should I choose?
Choosing the right boat tour in Launceston can be difficult as each tour has its own unique features. Therefore, it’s recommended to consider your interests, budget, and duration of stay in Launceston before choosing a boat tour. If you want to explore the Tamar River and its history, then Tamar River Cruises and Tamar Odyssey would be the perfect choices. But if you want to see platypuses and other Tasmanian wildlife, then Platypus House Tours and Tamar Island Wetlands Centre Tours are the ones to consider. On the other hand, if you want to experience the natural beauty of the Cataract Gorge, then Cataract Gorge River Cruises are the perfect choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, boat tours in Launceston offer a unique and exciting way to explore the city and its surroundings. By considering your interests, budget, and duration of stay, you can choose the perfect boat tour for yourself. Whether you choose to explore the Tamar River, Cataract Gorge or see Tasmanian Wildlife, you will be amazed by the natural beauty that Launceston has to offer.
Table of Contents
