5 Day Western Tasmania Wilderness Tour FWTP5

Itinerary

• 1 Arrive in Launceston

  Arrive today and travel into Launceston city at your leisure. Your accommodation for tonight is booked and waiting at the Best Western Plus Hotel – centrally located and walking distance to the cities restaurant and shopping areas.

• 2 Launceston & Surrounds to Cradle Mountain (B L)

  Today we will spend the morning exploring downtown Launceston – Australia’s 3rd oldest city behind Sydney & Hobart. We will see the King Bridge, City Park, inside the beautiful old Heritage-listed Post Office and of course, take a 40-minute stroll through a jewel in the city – Cataract Gorge Reserve.

  Soon after we head westward into the Meander Valley which is an absolutely stunning farming and pastoral area. Try locally made ice-cream and honey tastings of more than 50 flavours at the renowned Melita Honey Farm in Chudleigh before learning about Tasmania’s oldest and biggest Leatherwood Honey producer R. Stephens Honey in Mole Creek.

  Our lunch stop today is a true gem hidden in the forest at 41º Degrees South Salmon Farm.

  After lunch, a truely unique attraction follows with a guided tour of the Marakoopa Caves, exhibiting limestone & crystal formations millions of years old, along with a completely natural population of resident glow worms! From here we will snake our way up onto the plateau of the central highlands to Cradle Mountain National Park to partake in some up-close Wombat & animal spotting at dusk.

  Tonight’s accommodation will be at the acclaimed and very comfortable, 4-star Cradle Mountain Hotel.

• 3 Cradle Mountain to Queenstown (B L D)

  Start the day with a full buffet hot and cold banquet breakfast at Cradle Mountain Hotel. Inside the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park – a photographers paradise – drive to the gorgeous Dove Lake for breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain. Take a short walk to glacier rock and then on to the appropriately named Enchanted Walk to see beautiful cascades and the Pencil Pine waterfall. Visit the old “Waldheim Cottage” of pioneer Gustav Weindorfer who made Cradle Mountain world famous.

  En route to Strahan, we pass through beautiful Lake Rosebery, and old mining towns such as Zeehan and view the Southern Ocean from one of the best lookout points on the west coast – how far can you see – perhaps Argentina? This is some of the freshest air on Earth.

  Arriving in the historic settlement of Strahan we see the historical train station at Regatta Point, visit an old though still operational sawmill, and the award-winning Woodcraft Centre with beautifully designed woodworks on display. Continue onto our comfortable lodgings at the infamous west coast township of Queenstown where an evening meal is included in your package.

• 4 Queenstown to Hobart (B L)

  Queenstown is an old mining town reflecting past glory and surrounded by colourful, mineral rich mountains. Start the day with panoramic views over Queenstown from the Iron Blow lookout at the top of Mt Lyell before a lovely rainforest drives right through the World Heritage Franklin-Gordon National Park.

  Take a stroll into possibly Tasmania’s most photogenic waterfall – Nelson Falls, the 30-minute return walk is one of the West Coast’s best. We then travel through picturesque valleys and mountains, pristine forests, and cross wild rivers before winding our way up Mt Arrowsmith to the geographical center of Tasmania. Button grass plains, Eucalyptus forests, majestic mountains, and spectacular lakes are in every direction here.

  Turn at Derwent Bridge to see Lake St Clair – Australia’s deepest freshwater lake and the inception of the mighty Derwent River. Next up is a visit to one of the states premier cultural experiences – The Wall, an amazing ongoing work by artist Greg Duncan, depicting stories of Tasmanian history hand carved in Huon pine – our most famous timber.

  Following lunch, we have a close-up look at Tasmania’s Hydro-Electric Power scheme in the township of Tarraleah, before pushing further east into the Derwent Valley. A mid-afternoon coffee stop is in order at Lake Meadowbank before detouring into Mt Field National Park to visit the delightful 3-tier, Russell Falls. Our final drive leg wanders alongside the Derwent River bringing us back to Hobart for the final night of your 5 day package. Tonight’s accommodation is included in your package at the very stylish 4-star Movenpick hotel in Hobart City. Being Saturday evening there will be plenty of opportunity to experience Hobart’s great restaurant and nightlife culture.

• 5 Hobart (B)

  Enjoy a delicious hot breakfast included in your room package this morning. Your 5-day package officially concludes with hotel check-out by 11 am. Reception can certainly store bags for those with late afternoon flights or contact us to arrange additional nights in these lodgings. We can also recommend plenty of day trips or city activity options for those looking to further explore.

*We reserve the right to alter tour itineraries without notice due to climatic conditions and other circumstances outside our control.

Flight times 

• Day 1: Flight to any time at Launceston Airport. The hotel is available from 2 pm.
• Day 5: Flights to depart anytime from Hobart Airport.

Additional Information

Carbon Offset – Green Initiative Program
Our commitment for 2024/25 season is to plant 1 tree for every guest we host in Tasmania.

Accommodation Pick Up and Drop Off
Complimentary pick-up and drop-off at your packaged Hobart or Launceston CBD Hotel, depending on which location the tour starts and finishes. The time of pick-up will be confirmed closer to departure.

Accommodation Pre or Post Tour Options in Hobart or Launceston
We can book you into the Movenpick Hotel Hobart or the Best Western Launceston Hotel where your tour start and end.  If you would like to book your own, many guests choose to stay in Hobart at The Alabama Hotel, St Ives Apartments, RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel, ibis Styles Hobart, Salamanca Suites or The Henry Jones Art Hotel.

Most guests choose to stay in Launceston at Art Hotel on York, Ashcroft Apartments, Waratah on York, Hideaway on George, The Florance, TWOFOURTWO Boutique Apartments or the Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston, or similar. Hotels may vary from the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

Book your pre and post-tour accommodation here.

Travel Insurance
It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. Most claims arise from either personal or close family illness before departure resulting in cancellation charges. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance.  Travel Insurance Quote with CoverMore.

How many Guests will be on Tour?
The largest group we take in a vehicle is 15 passengers. The vehicle you will travel in depends on passenger bookings. There are 3 different size vehicles. ‘Maximum Passengers’ policy is:

• Valente Mercedes Van – Licensed to carry 8, but we usually have no more than 5 guests.
• Iveco Mini Bus Daily – Executive model. Licensed to carry 17 but we guarantee never more than 12 guests.
• Yutong Coach – Half-size coach bus. Licensed to carry 23, no more than 15 passengers in this vehicle.

Packing Suggestions
Generally, the weather over the tourist season is warm during the day and cool at night. It is recommended to pack a warm jacket for Tasmania regardless of the time of the year you are traveling.

• Digital camera or camcorder
• Walking shoes. Although most walking tracks are easy and established, good walking shoes will come in handy.
• A pair of jeans or similar, a pair of shorts in summer.
• Sunglasses, sun cream, and a hat.
• A small torch if you want to search wildlife at night at Cradle Mountain.
• A raincoat or jacket

Wi-Fi Access
Most of the accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. It may be slower than you are used to due to the remote locations. Wi-Fi may only be available when close to the reception building.

Mobile or Cell Phone Coverage  
The only cell phone network that has a reliable signal in most locations is TELSTRA network. Vodafone & Optus sim cards will usually have signal only in major cities or towns. Public phones are widely available, some have the option of payment on credit cards.

Be aware that some confirmed bookings are not refundable if cancelled, and also may not be transferable to another date or otherwise changed. Alternatively, a change may only be permissible subject to payment of an additional fee or charge. Your entitlement to a refund for cancelled bookings is subject to the relevant Supplier’s terms and conditions. Please note that if we are entitled to a service fee for placing a booking, we will remain entitled to this fee if you cancel the booking or the Supplier fails to provide you with the Product for any reason (other than our default), including in an event of Force Majeure. We will be entitled to deduct our service fee from any refund we receive on your behalf before remitting the balance to you. Suppliers’ fees are outlined in their relevant terms and conditions.

Please review the Terms and Conditions and Schedule of Fees prior to making a booking.

Standard Cancellation Policy: You are required to notify of cancellation in writing. These amounts will be less any agents booking fees.
Notice in Days                  Refund based on a business day when email to advise of cancellation is received
50+ Days Notice              80% Refund
22 – 49 Days Notice       75% Refund
10 – 21 Days Notice        50% Refund
1 – 9 Days Notice             0% Refund

As we plan our tours, food, and accommodation in advance our policy is necessary to ensure all out-of-pocket expenses are covered in the unfortunate event of a cancellation. We recommend all guests purchase travel insurance when booking tours.

Travel Insurance
As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. It is HIGHLY recommended that passengers take out travel insurance. As a valued customer we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to get a free no-obligation quote from Cover-More Travel Insurance.

Credit Card Payments
Credit Card Customer Payment Link enter this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment.

Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when the processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

Direct Deposit
Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

Commonwealth Bank: Australian Tours and Cruises
Reference: Your Trip Number
BSB: 062-504 Account: 1066 1268
Branch Address: Shop 1/80-84 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795
In Bank Payment of Cash Or Cheque: Add $5 for bank fees
International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees
SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

Tour Reviews

My wife and I, based in Singapore, have been to all the major cities in Australia, and Tasmania has long been on our bucket list. We jumped at the opportunity to visit when Australia relaxed its travel restrictions. We opted for the Western Wilderness tour starting from Launceston. The tour was excellent in every respect—- comfortable ride, congenial company, and superb driving and commentary by Dean, our ever-cheerful guide. We never felt rushed, and still covered an amazing diversity of places in 3 full days. Dean’s knowledge of the flora and fauna was remarkable, as were his illuminating comments on “The Wall”. The accommodations were comfortable, the lunch and dinner venues were well chosen; not forgetting the afternoon coffee/tea breaks orchestrated by Dean. Jaytara, Singapore

FAQs

• Are there concession discounts?
  Pensioners (Australia or New Zealand) and Seniors Card holders (Australia) save with our concession discounts on selected tours. Ask our friendly team which tours you can get a discount on.
• Are your tours suitable for pensioners aged 76 and 84 ?
  Yes, Tasmania tours passengers range from children to adult who are 90 years of age.
• Transfer By Public Bus In Tasmania
  There are two Public Bus companies that operate between Hobart, Launceston, Devonport and other places inside Tasmania. You can see these here: Redline Coach and Tassie Link. Redline Coach also does airport to hotel transfers.
• Do you have any tours on offer during June, July or August ?
  Due to our off season of winter, no Tasmania tours operate during the months of June, July or August. The season starts in September and ends in May each year.
• Is accommodation the night after the tour ends included in the price ?
  No, this accommodation will cost extra.
• Is accommodation the night previous to the tour departure included in the price ?
  No, this Tasmania accommodation will be an extra cost.
• Where is the meeting point for the start of tours ?
  The pick up is at the “before tour accommodation” hotel listed in the TRIP NOTES tabs of the specific tour you are looking at.
• Do I need to arrive before Day 1 of my tour ?
  Please refer to your specific tour and look in the “Trip Notes” information where it may state this: You need to arrive any time the day prior to Day 1. If this is the case we can organise airport pick up and pre tour accommodation on your behalf, this will be an extra cost.

  Other tours start late in the day on Day 1 so you can arrive that morning which will avoid the extra nights accommodation cost.

  Please refer to the “Trip Notes” information for your specific tour which will explain this further.

• How do you calculate the number of days for your Tasmania tour ?
  If you are doing a 4 day tour commencing on April 8th, the first day of the tour is and includes the 8th, plus 9th, plus 10th plus 11th and the tour ends on April 11.
• Do your tours operate over Christmas and New Year?
  Yes – this is one of our most popular and busiest times
• Are airfares from my home town included in the cost of the tours ?
  Airfares to and from Tasmania at the start and finish of your tours are extra.
• Do you have short tours that include Bruny Island ?
  No tours include a trip to Bruny Island, however many people add this on as a day trip from Hobart either before or are after their multi day tour.
• Does the price include The Spirit Of Tasmania ship fares ?
  The 11 Day Tour to Tasmania includes the Ship costs one way.
• Payment Options

  Credit Card Payments
  Credit Card Customer Payment Link copy and paste this link into your browser: pay.travelpay.com.au/AUSTC

  If paying via the Customer Payment Link, please ensure you complete all fields and ensure you enter the correct Trip Reference Number, so we can identify your payment.

  Credit card surcharges will apply when paying by credit card. We accept all credit cards and relevant credit card fee is applied when the processing: Mastercard – 1.30%, Visa – 1.50%, American Express – 2.20%, Diners Card – 2.75%, International Credit Cards – 3.25%

  Direct Deposit
  Direct Deposit payments take up to 3 business days to process. Please notify your consultant of your payment once it has been processed.

  Commonwealth Bank: Australian Tours and Cruises
  Reference: Your Trip Number
  BSB: 062-504 Account: 1066 1268
  Branch Address: Shop 1/80-84 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795
  In Bank Payment of Cash Or Cheque: Add $5 for bank fees
  International Direct Deposit: Add $25 for bank fees
  SWIFT or BIC CODE: CTBAAU2S

• Should I buy travel insurance?
  Travel Insurance

  As a valued customer of Tasmania Tours, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to purchase discounted travel insurance. Options include single trip or annual frequent travellers plan on domestic or international travel.

  Free quote for travel insurance by SureSave.

  Travel Insurance by SureSave

  SureSave is an Australian travel insurance company who specialise in providing help that’s designed for travellers. Underwritten by certain underwriters at Lloyds, they are dedicated to keeping customers informed and covered through an honest and genuine approach to travel insurance.

  SureSave provides world assistance through their Sydney-based support team, including an award-winning customer contact centre, claims team and 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. All their services are in-house, so rest assured that no matter where your travels take you, you’ll have access to expert assistance from home.

  Free travel safety app with every policy When you buy a policy with us, you’ll get instant access to the free SureSave travel safety app.

  The app provides you with access to travel safety information on the go, including policy details, emergency contacts, phrasebooks and guides tailored to your trip. View a video on the SureSave app.

  Disclaimer Momentum 17 Pty Ltd, trading as Australian Tours and Cruises, ABN 18 621 028 402,is a distributor of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461. Before deciding to purchase this product, read the Product Disclosure Statement available from us. This insurance is underwritten by certain underwriters at Lloyd’s.