tas eco tours

THE 10 BEST Tasmania Eco Tours

Eco tours in tasmania.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking Trails
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Devils @ Cradle
• Port Arthur Historic Site
• Park Trek Walking Holidays
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Cradle Mountain Wildlife Spotting after Dark

2. 6-Day Tasmanian Explorer Adventure Tour from Hobart

3. 1-Hour Tasmanian Devil Feeding Day Tour at Cradle Mountain

4. Sunset Experience

5. Day Keeper Tour

6. Freycinet Walking Tour

7. Three Capes & tukana / Tasman Peninsula Hiking Tour - 4 Days

8. 4-Day Wukalina Walk Hiking and Cultural Experience in Tasmania

9. Three Capes Off Season Explorer Hiking Tour - 3 Days

10. wulinantikala / Cradle Mountain Hiking Tour - 4 Days

11. Wings Wildlife Park Shuttle, Burnie Shore Excursion

12. Under the Organ Pipes - kunanyi/ Mt Wellington guided walk

What travellers are saying.

Great Australian Secret

• Videos About Tasmania
• Explore Tasmania
• Book A Hotel
• Book An Adventure
• Beer & Breweries
• River & Ocean Cruises
• Fascinating History
• Markets & Bazaars
• Thrills & Adventure
• Curious Antiquities
• Whisky Distilleries
• Deep Wilderness
• Historic Railways
• Responsible Ecotourism
• Southern Tasmania
• North West Tasmania
• North East Tasmania
• West Coast of Tasmania
• East Coast of Tasmania
• Central Tasmania

Tasmanian Ecotourism

Environmentally responsible tourism ensures Tasmania’s precious geographic features are preserved for the visitors of tomorrow … while being accessible and inspiring to the visitors of today .

To reduce the impact of human activity on Tasmania’s stunning natural assets, environmentally responsible tourism , or ecotourism , is practiced at dozens of locations across the island. Ecotourism achieves significant goals for both visitors and the location they’re visiting: visitors are provided with a unique and remarkable experience; all while zero environmental impact occurs at and around the location they’re visiting.

Tasmania sits on the forefront of world-standard environmentally responsible tourism practices. Passionate eco-adventure operators provide cruises and excursions into some of the world’s most precious wilderness locations. Six-star eco-lodges offer luxurious, carbon-friendly accommodation while simultaneously supporting local economies. Ancient indigenous culture is preserved, respected, and shared with the people of today. And local businesses and communities flourish on the financial activity provided by visitors to the area.

Ecotourism thrives in Tasmania for two reasons. Firstly, Tasmania’s unique geographical assets are found in every corner of the island. Secondly, these rich assets are lovingly cared for and zealously protected by fanatical watchkeepers: the people of Tasmania.

By visiting attractions that have a commitment to responsible ecotourism practices, visitors can rest assured that their ticket fare is contributing to the protection and conservation of the environment they’re visiting.

Choose from many ecotourism locations in Tasmania:

National Park

Protected wilderness area.

Tahune Airwalk

Walk through the treetops.

Saffire Wilderness Lodge

Six-star eco retreat.

Rafting on the Franklin River

Environmentally-friendly rafting.

Maria Island Walks

Environmentally-friendly walking expeditions.

Belgrove Whisky Distillery

Low carbon footprint whisky producer.

The Overland Track

One of Tasmania's most famous inland treks.

Freycinet Eco Retreat

Low carbon footprint accommodation.

Huon Bush Retreats

Tarkine wilderness lodge, wilderness river cruise.

Environmentally-friendly cruising.

The Tahune Airwalk

The Tahune Airwalk is an exhilarating 600m-long walkway suspended high above the ancient rainforest canopy near Geeveston, about 90 kilometres south west of Hobart.

Sitting on the edge of 1.6 million hectares of World Heritage Listed forest, the Airwalk provides visitors with the opportunity to walk amongst ancient Tasmanian treetops, while taking in views of surrounding rainforest, birds and other native wildlife. The walkway is easy to access as it ascends gently from the ground until reaching a maximum height of approximately 30m above the ground.

The pièce de résistance of the Airwalk is the cantilever , a suspended viewing platform providing visitors with incredible views of the forest floor, river and surrounding rainforest.

The Tahune Airwalk provides visitors with the opportunity to experience unique and precious Tasmanian wilderness with a minimal impact on the environment. Learn more here .

Get Directions

Directions to Tahune Airwalk

Address: Tahune AirWalk, Arve Rd, Geeveston TAS 7116 Telephone:  1300 720 507 Website:   www.tahuneairwalk.com.au

For more info visit their website.  Back to top .

Saffire Wilderness Lodge is a six-star eco-lodge located at the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast. The modern and environmentally conscious sanctuary features spacious light-filled suites offering magnificent views over the Hazards Mountains, Freycinet Peninsula and the pristine waters of Great Oyster Bay.

The Lodge features twenty luxury suites, a day spa, restaurant, guest lounge, bar and gymnasium. ‘Palate,’ the award-winning and internationally renowned restaurant serves iconic Tasmanian food alongside carefully curated wines. Treatments in the spa are designed exclusively by a celebrity facialist and provide visitors with a multitude of different massages and treatments. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, locally run attractions like the Signature Schouten Island Experience are available most times of the year.

Saffire’s six-star rating is not an exaggeration: the staff to guest ratio of 4:1 ensures exceptional service is interwoven into the Lodge’s unforgettable experience. Ready to disconnect in a relaxing, luxurious and unforgettable eco-retreat? Learn more here .

Directions to Saffire

Address: 2352 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay Telephone:  (03) 6256 7888 Website: www.saffire-freycinet.com.au

Environmentally Friendly Wilderness Cruises

One of Tasmania’s most awarded ecotourism operators is Pennicott Wilderness Journeys , a provider of environmentally responsible wilderness cruises.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys provides unforgettable cruises in four areas around Tasmania:

• A half day or full day cruise around the rugged coastline of Bruny Island ,
• A three hour cruise taking visitors along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in the south of Tasmania,
• The Iron Pot cruise, a journey around Greater Hobart’s waterways area, and
• Tasmanian Seafood Seductions, an interactive cruise allowing visitors the opportunity to catch and enjoy seafood taken directly from waterways in Southern Tasmania.

Since 1999, Pennicott Wilderness Journeys has offered a variety of boat trips while implementing high environmental values. They employ and train local staff and buy local produce where possible. The company is completely carbon-neutral, has advanced ecotourism accreditation, and is assessed annually by EarthCheck. The company also donates to a number of conservation, humanitarian and community projects. Learn more about Pennicott Wilderness Journeys here.

Back to top.

White-water Rafting on the Franklin River

White-water rafting on the Franklin River near the western edge of the Central Highlands is an exhilarating and environmentally conscious way to experience Tasmania’s wilderness.

There are many rafting trips to choose from depending on skill and length and range from short day trips up to 8-10 day rafting-camping trips. Rafting tour staff are trained in proper waste disposal and ensure no rafting adventure leaves any trace of human evidence. Those camping in the area are briefed on how to effectively camp in the wild without disturbing surroundings.

Some tours also include a hike up to Frenchman’s Cap as a side trip. Learn more about white-water rating on the Franklin River .

Maria Island is a picturesque mountainous island located four kilometres off the east coast of Tasmania. Once the home of a convict settlement and later used for farming, Maria Island is a now national park with no permanent residents. The island is accessible via ferry from Triabunna.

Tourism provider Maria Island Walks operates four-day luxury walking tours around the island, and includes an exhilarating hike to the summit of one of the island’s two peaks, either Mount Maria or Bishop and Clerk. Accommodation is provided in luxury tents and the heritage-listed Bernacchi House, and guests enjoy gourmet food and wine for the duration of the four-day trip.

The tour is operated by passionate provider Ian Johnston and his family who are dedicated to keeping the environment as pristine as possible. They have eco-tourism certifications and make sure they have a very light environmental footprint. Maria Island Walks also works closely with the Parks and Wildlife Service, community bird watching groups, and the Save the Tasmanian Devil programme. They are also involved with conservation projects such as heritage conservation, helping the introduction of disease-free devils, and planting trees to rehabilitate degraded areas and to help nurture and propagate different types of shorebirds.

By participating in a walk around Maria Island, visitors are helping these causes while enjoying one of the most popular and beautiful waking trails in Tasmania. Learn more here .

Contact Maria Island Walks

Address: Darlington, Maria Island TAS 7000 Telephone :  (03) 6234 2999 Website:   www.mariaislandwalk.com.au

All tours are by appointment only.  Back to top .

The Belgrove Whisky Distillery is a privately operated, environmentally friendly rye whisky distillery located in Kempton, about 50km north of Hobart.

Passionate farmer and distiller Peter Bignell started this unique rye whisky distillery in 2008 when a bumper season left him with an excess crop of rye. He decided to make whisky and has been doing so ever since. Bignell prides himself on his environmentally friendly production processes:

• He built his copper pot from scratch.
• He fuels it with biodiesel made from the waste cooking oil he gets from a roadhouse next to his farm.
• He also uses the biodiesel to heat his house and drive his tractor and forklift truck. Cooling water comes from his own dam and the wastewater is used for irrigation for the next rye crop.
• The grain is malted on site, which saves on transportation costs.
• Once the sugar has been extracted to make the whiskey, the leftover mash is fed to Bignell’s pigs and cattle.

Nothing is wasted on this farm: the only thing to leave is smooth, 100 per cent rye whiskey. Visitors are welcome to visit the farm and chat to Peter about his amazing carbon-neutral system that he has running, but an appointment must be made beforehand. Learn more here .

Contact Belgrove Distillery

Address: 3121 Midland Hwy, Kempton Telephone: 0409 144 560 Website:   belgrovedistillery.com.au

Tours by appointment only. Back to top .

National Parks and Wilderness

There are 19 National Parks across Tasmania, of which 7 are part of the island’s internationally protected Wilderness World Heritage area. These parks are a great way to experience unique, untouched wilderness and cover a third of the 90,000 square kilometres that make the island of Tasmania.

Tasmania’s national parks are diverse and contain mountain ranges, highlands, rainforests, waterfalls and solitary beaches. These parks are suitable for visitors of all types and offer short walks, visits to waterfalls, barbeque areas, visitor centres, hiking, bird watching, white-water rafting, horse riding, wildlife spotting, and more.

Exploring one of Tasmania’s national parks is a great way for visitors to experience ecotourism, as the money from park entry fees is used to protect and preserve them.

Those who want to set forth independently should grab a Tasmania’s National Parks and Reserves Visitor Guide. Learn more here .

Walking the Overland Track

The Overland Track is a 5-7 day walking journey through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, running between the beautiful rocky crags of Cradle Mountain and the edge of Lake St. Clair. The trail passes through mountains, waterfalls and rainforest featuring spectacular scenery, intricate ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna. The official trail is 65 kilometres long, however hikers can choose to continue from Lake St. Clair to make the journey 82 kilometres in total.

The Overland Track is one of the most popular treks in Australia with more than 8000 walkers completing it every year. The trail is a strong example of Tasmanian ecotourism as visitors are able to experience Tasmanian pristine environment while proceeds from the National Park entry fee (required to access the trail) are used to protect and preserve the area.

During popular summer months walkers must book their planned departure date to make sure the trail doesn’t become overcrowded. There are basic huts along the way however in case of bad weather hikers must carry a tent and provisions must be taken to last the entirety of the trip. It’s not advised for beginners to go independently.

Inexperienced hikers can walk the trail with the assistance of a tour operator like Tasmanian Expeditions who are ecotourism certified and follow a ‘leave no trace’ policy on all of the walks they offer. Learn more here .

The Freycinet Eco Retreat is an environmentally friendly retreat located on the Freycinet Peninsula along Tasmania’s East Coast. The retreat offers visitors a range of accommodation types including eco-cabins, eco-studios and campsites. The retreat’s purpose built timber cabins stand on stilts with wooden walkways connecting them to the main lodge, ensuring minimal impact on the trees and surrounding environment.

The retreat is located inside the Freycinet National Park so all visitors are required to pay an entry fee of which proceeds goes towards preserving the park and its surroundings. The Freycinet Eco Retreat is a great base from which to discover the natural beauty of the surrounding area, and is easy to reach from either Hobart or Launceston. The Freycinet Eco Retreat was purpose built for environmentally conscious travellers looking to disconnect from busy life. Learn more here .

Contact Freycinet Eco Retreat

Address: 1799 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay Telephone: (03) 6257 0300 Website: www.freycinet.com

Huon Bush Retreats is a luxury eco-retreat located inside an extensive private nature reserve in the middle of the Huon Valley, about 50 mins drive south of Hobart. The Bush Retreats achieve carbon-positive status through their carefully selected building materials, the use of a mix of clean energy sources, and responsible day to day operations that create minimal effect on natural surroundings.

Captivating bush trails surround the property where walkers discover various animals and insects, stunning rainforest and hidden waterfalls. Visitors can cosy up in one of the cabins or tepees or bring their own tent. Learn more abut the Huon Bush Retreats here .

Contact Huon Bush Retreats

Address:  300 Browns Rd, Ranelagh Telephone:   (03) 6264 2233 Website: www.huonbushretreats.com

Way up in the northwest of Tasmania is the Tarkine Wilderness Lodge, an eco-retreat built in 2003 to protect and preserve the area’s breathtaking wilderness. Visitors to the lodge enjoy daytime walks, night-time walks (to try and spot the infamous Tasmanian Devil) and other eco-activities.

The lodge holds an advanced ecotourism certification thanks to its environmentally friendly practices:

• Rain water and dam water is used for all water supplies.
• Solar power is the main source of electricity, with a gas generator for back up.
• Organic produce is grown onsite and served to guests during evening meals, and any extra food requirements are sourced from local suppliers and growers.

Learn more about the Tarkine Wilderness Lodge here .

Contact Tarkine Wilderness Lodge

Address: 1 Newhaven Track, Meunna Telephone:  +61 3 6257 8574 Website:  www.tarkinelodge.com

What Is Ecotourism?

As described by The International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism is “ responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education “.

The practise of ecotourism also includes broader initiatives like:

• Environmentally responsible construction methods when building/modifying tourism dwellings and attractions, and
• Consideration of the aesthetic/visual impact of tourism dwellings and attractions on their natural surroundings, and
• Environmentally responsible education for both staff and visitors, therefore encouraging safe and accountable behaviour from both parties.

Ecotourism should strive to protect and preserve the wellbeing of surrounding flora and fauna, while simultaneously educating visitors to enjoy but not to disturb such wildlife and plant life.

Effective ecotourism combines tourism with rich local culture and preservation of the environment so that all three benefit from each other. The financial activity brought in by visitors should help conserve the natural environment while creating employment opportunities for local residents.

Tasmania’s Ecotourism Goal: Become The Best In The World

More than a million people visit Tasmania each year to experience its unspoilt natural environment and pristine waters. To ensure this happens for years to come, the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania (TICT) has one clear goal in mind: to position Tasmania as one of the leading ecotourism regions of the world through the widespread promotion and successful adoption of a globally recognised ecotourism certification called EarthCheck. Many of the 700 targeted tour companies in Tasmania have been evaluated and are now Earthcheck certified .

EarthCheck provides feedback on the tourism provider’s operational efficiency, waste production/management and unique ways in which the provider can protect the natural environment. After their evaluation, providers are awarded an ‘Earth Rating’ which shows how they fare against internationally recognised criteria.

Ready to keep exploring?

Explore more of Tasmania on another trail.

Tasmania Gourmet Eco Tours & bushwalker transfers

Hi from your host Deb.

Thanks for visiting Tasmania Gourmet Eco Tours. A little bit of gourmet and a little bit of eco in every trip! What a blend…………..this is how it should be, for people like you and me!

So much within easy reach of centrally located Launceston and region!

• Friendly, knowledgeable, genuine local guide
• Licensed operator with experience in local culture, food and environment since 1989
• Maximum 4 passengers
• Waterfalls, beaches, mountains and forests
• Wide variety of great local food
• Bushwalkers transfers
• National Parks
• World Heritage Area
• Expert environmental interpretation and photography tips if required
• Choose from iconic destinations or lesser known gems
• Escorted events: on request, please ask
• Classic 4WD
• Great rates

Explore these pages, decide and book, it’s that easy. See Featured Tours pages, the Photo gallery , create your own   for walks info and more nature destinations,   book now ,  or c ontact us for inquiries. A complete list of the region’s gourmet attractions are far too many to list on this website. Any choose-your-own nature destination that you pick has loads of nearby gourmet options for us. That’s northern Tasmania for you!

Some of Tasmania’s less traveled alpine back roads are subject to changing conditions. Thanks for your understanding if I need to vary your itinerary for your comfort or safety. 

Bay of Fires

Ashgrove Cheese

At kooparoona niara /Great Western Tiers

Seven Sheds Oktoberfest

Bush track (your host)

TasGET FACEBOOK  is here

• ALBANY TOURS
• BOAT & YACHT HIRE PERTH
• BROOME TOURS
• BUSSELTON TOURS
• CARNAC ISLAND TOURS
• MANTA RAY TOURS
• TURTLE SWIM TOURS
• WHALE SHARK TOURS
• DUNSBOROUGH TOURS
• EXMOUTH FISHING CHARTERS
• EXMOUTH SUNSET CRUISES
• EXMOUTH WHALE SHARKS
• EXMOUTH WHALE WATCH TOURS
• DUNSBOROUGH FISHING
• EXMOUTH FISHING
• FREMANTLE FISHING
• JURIEN BAY FISHING
• ROWLEY SHOALS FISHING
• PERTH FISHING
• FREMANTLE TOURS
• HORIZONTAL FALLS
• JURIEN BAY TOURS
• KIMBERLEY CRUISES
• KIMBERLEY & TOP END TOURS
• MANDURAH TOURS
• MARGARET RIVER TOURS
• ORCA WHALE WATCHING
• ABORIGINAL TOURS
• SUNSET CRUISES
• SWAN RIVER TOURS
• PINNACLES TOURS
• ROTTEST ISLAND TOURS
• ROWLEY SHOALS TOURS
• DESTINATION
• ACCOMODATION
• EXPERIENCES
• SPECIAL OFFERS
• SEAFOOD TOUR
• SUNSET CRUISES – WA
• WALKING TOURS
• CORAL BAY WHALE SHARK TOURS
• EXMOUTH WHALE SHARK TOURS
• AUGUSTA WHALE WATCHING
• BROOME WHALE WATCHING
• BUSSELTON WHALE WATCHING
• CORAL BAY WHALE WATCHING
• DUNSBOROUGH WHALE WATCHING
• EXMOUTH WHALE WATCHING
• FREMANTLE WHALE WATCHING
• HILLARYS WHALE WATCHING
• KILLER WHALE TOURS
• PERTH WHALE WATCHING
• WILD FLOWER TOURS
• SWAN VALLEY WINERY TOURS
• VOYAGER ESTATE
• AUSTRALIA DAY
• LUXURY LUNCH CRUISE
• DINNER CRUISE – SYDNEY NEW
• DISCOVERY CRUISE
• HARBOUR LIGHTS CRUISE
• HARBOUR LUNCH CRUISE
• LUNCH CRUISE – SYDNEY NEW!
• SUNSET DINNER CRUISE
• PIRATE CRUISE
• ROMANTIC EVENING CRUISE
• SUNDECK TOUR – HARBOUR
• HELI FISHING
• HELI FISH PUB CRAWL
• DARWIN – DINNER CRUISE
• DARWIN – GOURMET TOURS
• DARWIN – SUNSET CRUISE
• HISTORY TOURS WWII
• DARWIN – SHORT BREAKS
• KAKADU TOURS
• FIELD OF LIGHTS TOUR
• WHITSUNDAY TOURS
• ECO SNORKEL CRUISE
• BOAT & RIVER TOURS
• HOP ON HOP OFF (HOPO)
• WATERFALLS TOUR
• WHALE WATCHING TOURS
• WINERY TOUR GOLD COAST
• SURFERS PARADISE TOURS
• SOUTH AUSTRALIA
• ACTIVE & OUTDOORS TOURS
• BRUNY ISLAND TOURS
• BUS & COACH TOURS
• FOOD & DRINKS TOURS
• HIKING & WALKING TOURS
• HOBART TOURS
• PORT ARTHUR TOURS
• SCENIC FLIGHTS
• WILDERNESS CRUISES
• SEAL & DOLPHIN TOURS
• ALL BALI DEALS
• AIR & LAND PACKAGES
• BEACHFRONT RESORTS
• BEST HOTEL PACKAGES
• DOUBLE-SIX SEMINYAK
• FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOTELS
• SKI HOLIDAYS – CLUB MED
• SUMMER HOLIDAYS – CLUB MED
• CRUISE SEARCH – ALL CRUISES
• OCEAN CRUISES
• RIVER CRUISES
• EXPEDITION & SPECIALITY CRUISES
• GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
• SOLO CRUISE DEALS
• BALI FAMILY HOLIDAYS
• FIJI MALOLO ISLAND RESORT
• FIJI ROYAL DAVUI RESORT
• FIJI TOKORIKI RESORT
• FIJI PALMS DENARAU & MATAMANOA RESORT
• FIJI KOKOMO PRIVATE ISLAND
• FIJI YASAWA RESORT
• FIJI NAMALE RESORT
• FIJI LIKULIKU RESORT
• HONEYMOON DEALS
• SINGAPORE DEALS
• VIETNAM HOLIDAY DEALS
• VIETNAM TOURS
• WESTERN AUSTRALIA
• COOK ISLANDS
• NEW ZEALAND
• SKI HOLIDAYS
• SRI LANKA HOLIDAYS
• VIETNAM & CAMBODIA
• GALAPAGOS ISLANDS CRUISES
• INDIAN PACIFIC
• PHOTO GALLERY

ECO WILDERNESS CRUISES TASMANIA

View stunning cliffs and wildlife on our coastal eco & wilderness cruises in tasmania, ecotourism cruises in tasmania.

This is the time to experience one of our Eco Wilderness Cruises  Tasmania and get close to some of Australia's highest sea cliffs. Enter deep sea caves and join in the search for abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds.

The beautiful and remote island of Tasmania is the perfect setting for eco cruises and wilderness exploring. Through BlueSun Travel you can visit stunning locations like Betsey Island, Bruny Island, the Freycinet Peninsula, Maria Island and Wineglass Bay. 

WHERE ARE CRUISES GO FROM

The 3 Hour Cruise departs from our visitor centre at 1005 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.  Bruny Island is accessible by a vehicular ferry from Kettering, a 45 minute drive south of Hobart. The ferry crossing takes 20 minutes, and from there it's a 40 minute drive south to our visitor centre in Adventure Bay.

When it comes to to finding 'things to do in Tasmania' and the right Wilderness Cruise or Eco experience, BlueSun Travel provides some excellent day tour options. We are constantly expanding out influence in domestic land-based tourism. We continue to pick and promote the best travel packages and tours.

For more information on our Eco Wilderness Cruises  Tasmania ,  or things to do in Tasmania, please call 1300 799 758 now

Call us now. We are available seven days a week!

ECO WILDERNESS CRUISE CHOICES ...

More tours in tasmania.

Art & Culture | Bus & Coach Tours | Classes & Workshops | Day Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises | Eco Tours | Food & Drink | Likely to Sell Out | Outdoor Activities | Travel & Transportation | Wilderness Cruises

Recommended Cruises, Eco Tours and Wilderness Cruises

Top eco wilderness cruises attractions & tours in tasmania.

Port Arthur Tours | Hobart Bus & Coach Tours | Bruny Island Wilderness Cruises | River Derwent Cruise Tours & Tickets | Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tours & Tickets | Hummock Tours & Tickets

CALL 1300 799 758

Think australia - we do, tell me more, get a free quote, please fill in this enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

WhatsApp us

• Tour Information
• Binalong Bay

Don’t just visit the Bay of Fires….Experience it!

B inalong bay – tasmania.

23/24 SEASON ENDS 28th APRIL

Our business is currently for sale and as such we aren’t in a position to comment on the tour schedule for 24/25, however, in previous years tours have commenced mid/late September.

Bay of Fires Eco Tours, is located at the northern tip of the Great Eastern Drive and is one of the top attractions when visiting the St Helens  area. The boat tours allow passengers to experience the Bay of Fires at its finest, the white sandy beaches, aqua clear waters, the hidden bays and striking headlands of this breathtakingly beautiful coastline. With different tour options, we cater for all ages and interest levels. They are tours for the whole family to enjoy and a unique way to experience the Bay of Fires Coastline.

THE GARDENS EXPLORER

The Gardens Explorer is our most popular tour, covering the southern half of the Bay of Fires, offering a great opportunity to learn about this stunning coastline. The history and natural beauty will be highlighted as we traverse our way north along the Bay of Fires Conservation Area.

SAND, SEALS & ST HELENS ISLAND

The tour covers the most southern beaches of the Bay of Fires and then heads south to St Helens Island and our small seal colony. The tour is generally schedule twice a week and is a great option for families.

SLOOP ROCK EXPRESS

For a great way to experience the area in as small amount of time, jump on board Infurneaux for the Sloop Rock Express. A thrilling one hour tour, taking in our beautiful beaches, lichen covered boulders and the famous Sloop Rock!

BOOKING OFFICE

The Bay of Fires Eco Tours booking office is ideally  located  just meters from the Binalong Bay Gulch and boat ramp. It’s a meeting point for passengers both prior to their tours and on their return.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Bay of Fires Eco Tours incorporates a volunteer information service. Our friendly staff are always happy to chat with patrons  about  their travels and recommend the best places to visit. Suggest where to camp or simply explain about our gorgeous orange rocks.

COFFEE & SNACKS

With the most stunning outlook over Binalong Bay, take a moment to breath in the fresh sea air and enjoy a coffee, cold drink or ice cream. Warm up by the fire in winter or bask in the summer sun and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

• Bruny Island Cruises
• Bruny Island Traveller
• Fluted Cape Walk
• Iron Pot Cruises
• Seafood Seduction
• Port Arthur Bus

Tasman Island Cruises

• Three Capes Track
• Wineglass Bay Cruises
• Wilsons Promontory
• Our Story & Awards
• Boats & Buses
• Environment

Travel Trade

• Times & Prices
• Explore Tasman Peninsula
• Explore Hobart

• Environmental Sustainability
• Community Sustainability
• Employment Opportunities
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)

Tasman Island Cruises provides unforgettable wilderness cruises along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania.

The cruise travels beneath the highest vertical sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere at Cape Pillar. Guests explore waterfalls, rock formations, archways and deep-sea caves.

The coastline is part of the Tasman National Park. It is home to a variety of wildlife including hundreds of seals, migrating whales and abundant sea birds in their thousands.

At any time of year you're likely to see the feeding frenzy of diving gannets, albatross and sea eagles wheeling on the wind, cliff-nesting cormorants and peregrine falcons, or a pod of playful dolphins surfing the bow wave of the boat.

The custom built yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular coastline and wildlife of the Tasman Peninsula. Each vessel holds a maximum of 43 guests. Covered open-air tiered seating means an excellent all-round view and connection with the environment. The boats have been created for these journeys and they are gentle on the environment due to their fuel efficiency and low emission operation.

Tour Options & Prices          Book Now   

See Australia's highest sea cliffs

Encounter marine wildlife & seabirds

Keep a close lookout for sea eagles soaring above the cliffs, pods of dolphins surfing the bow wave, albatross wheeling on the wind and shearwaters skimming the swells. 

TOUR OPTIONS

The cruise departs daily from Port Arthur.  You can drive yourself to Port Arthur, or take our Full Day Tour from Hobart.

• Full Day Tour
• Full Day Tour + Devil Park
• Full Day Tour + Historic Site

Drive yourself to Port Arthur and join the cruise.

Cruise Times

Morning Cruise (All Year) Check in by 9.15am Cruise 10am to 1pm approximately 

Afternoon Cruise (peak periods) Check in by 1.15pm Cruise 2pm to 5pm approximately 

Getting There

The cruise starts and finishes at our Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre, located at 6961 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur 7182. This is on the left side of the road, 100m before the Port Arthur Historic Site entrance.

Guests should allow 90 minutes to drive from Hobart to Port Arthur. It is important that guests check in on time to allow for pre-cruise briefing and bus transfer to the boat.

Cruise Route

Each day we tailor the route of your cruise to make the most of the sea conditions between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck.  Whichever route we take, you will always start and finish at our Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre in Port Arthur. 

Important Information

Make sure you dress warmly for the cruise - warm jackets, scarves, beanies and gloves are recommended. And don't forget your camera!

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability. Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions .

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking.

For information about accessibility, download our Accessibility Guide .

Our Flexible Cancellation Policy   

If you book directly with us, we have a very flexible cancellation policy:

• No cancellation fees if you need to cancel due to COVID  right up to the time of departure.  This includes if you are unwell or if you have to change your travel plans due to flight changes or travel restrictions.  We will happily move your booking to another day or provide you with a full refund.  Please note you need to advise us prior to departure so that we have an opportunity to re-sell the seats. 
• For non-COVID related cancellations our normal cancellation policy applies . We reserve the right to charge 100% for cancellations within 24 hours of departure.  Bookings are fully flexible up to 24 hours prior to the tour departure. 

Please note that if you book through a third-party website or travel agent, they each impose their own cancellation policies and restrictions.  

Duration   3 Hours Approximately

Operates   Daily, except Christmas Day

Departs From 6961 Arthur Highway Port Arthur TAS 7182 View on Map

Prices Adult $175 Child (3-16 yrs) $105 Family $540 (2 adults, 3 children)

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour

Take a Full Day Tour and spend a day on the Tasman Peninsula, including return guided bus tour, morning tea, lunch and our award-winning 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise.

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:15pm - Lunch, followed by local sightseeing 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Departure Point

The Full Day Tour departs from the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre.  This is situated on Hobart's waterfront on Franklin Wharf, next to the Constitution Dock Lifting Bridge.  Please check-in by 7.15am for a 7.30am departure.

If you have your own car, we don't have any parking available.  There is all-day parking available nearby at the Evans Street Car Park or Market Place Car Park - click here for more information .

Morning Tea & Lunch

Your day includes morning tea and lunch served at local restaurants on the Tasman Peninsula.

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.

For information about accessibility,  download our Accessibility Guide .

Duration   10¼ Hours Approximately (7:30am - 6:00pm)

Departs From Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Dock Head Building Franklin Wharf Hobart TAS 7000 View on Map

Prices Adult $265 Child (3-16 yrs) $195

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour + Tasmanian Devil Unzoo

Take a Full Day Tour and spend a day on the Tasman Peninsula, incorporating return guided bus tour from Hobart, our award-winning cruise, morning tea, lunch and a visit to the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo .  

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:15pm - Lunch 02:45pm - Visit Tasmanian Devil Unzoo 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Prices Adult $290 Child (3-16 yrs) $210

Tasman Island Cruises Full Day Tour + Port Arthur Historic Site

This is the ultimate Tasman Peninsula day tour.  Your day includes return guided bus tour from Hobart, our award-winning 3 Hour Cruise, morning tea and lunch as part of three hours at the Port Arthur Historic Site .

07:15am - Check in at Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Centre 07:30am - Bus departs  09:15am - Arrive on Tasman Peninsula, Morning Tea 10:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 01:00pm - Cruise concludes 01:30pm - 3 Hours at the Port Arthur Historic Site                     including lunch and time to explore 04:30pm - Bus departs 06:00pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Your day includes morning tea at a local cafe and lunch at the Port Arthur Historic Site.

Prices Adult $320 Child (3-16 yrs) $250

GUEST IMAGES

More information.

Let us help you to make the most of your visit to the Tasman Peninsula.

Do I Need to Book?

We recommended booking a few days ahead as our boats are often full and you may be disappointed if you chance to just turn up on the day. We are flexible with bookings so it is not a problem if you decide to change to another day or cancel, whatever the reason. No fee is charged for cancellations before the cruise date (so long as you contact us).

What about the weather?

Our boats are designed to suit the coastline along which we travel and we will certainly make the most of any weather conditions. Our bookings are fully flexible so if you decide the weather on the day is not for you, you can give us a call and we can change your reservation to a different day. Our staff are upfront and honest about the weather and you are welcome to contact us a day or two ahead to get an honest indication of the forecasted weather. Of course, in Tasmania the weather can at times be a little surprising and so a forecast is exactly that, a forecast!

What about sea sickness?

Being in open ocean, sea sickness can be an issue for a small number of people. We have had 13 years experience in dealing with this and have developed some very effective techniques to minimise the chance of sea sickness occurring.

We offer all-natural Travel Calm Ginger tablets to everyone when they step onboard. This product has proven extremely effective in preventing sea sickness in most people. Our staff can also suggest a number of things to further assist in minimising the chances of any sea sickness symptoms:

• Selecting a seat in the back third of the boat (there is a lot less movement up the back of the boat)
• Keeping your body temperature on the cooler side
• If you wear glasses or sunglasses keep the lenses clean at all times
• Avoid looking through cameras, binoculars etc
• Stay away from acidic foods before the cruise such as Orange Juice and coffee

We do emphasise that communication is the key - if you have any concerns please let our staff know.

What do I need to wear?

It is important that you are adequately dressed because it is cold on the boats, even in summer. Warm jackets gloves, scarves & beanies are a good idea. We provide wet weather jackets which go over the top of your clothing, but we encourage you to bring a few warm layers of your own.

Can you cater for special dietary needs?

We use local cafes and restaurants for meals on our Full Day Tours. These venues are able to cater for most dietary requirements. Please mention any special requests to our staff when booking.

Can I do the cruise and Port Arthur Historic Site on the same day?

Yes, our Booking Centre is right next door to the Port Arthur Historic Site. Both can be done in the same day.

Are young children OK?

Children of all ages are welcome aboard our boats and we take many children along on our cruises. As parents you are probably the best judge as to how your children will cope with being out on the water for 3 hours, but we have found that the majority of children enjoy the experience and love seeing the amazing wildlife, huge cliffs and caves along the Bruny coastline.

Is the cruise OK while pregnant?

For the majority of days the cruise is quite suitable for pregnant women and we have had lots do our trip. Our boats are custom built for the coastline that we cruise along. They are able to cut through chop and therefore we can avoid the bumping of waves that some boats experience. It is a good idea to take into account the weather conditions on the day of the cruise as this will effect comfort levels for someone who is heavily pregnant. You can contact us a day or two ahead to get a weather report for the day of your cruise and we are happy to move or cancel bookings if it is not looking suitable for you.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

6961 Arthur Highway Port Arthur

(03) 6250 2200

Terms & Conditions

[email protected]

Our Journeys

Bruny Island Cruises Bruny Island Traveller Fluted Cape Walk Iron Pot Cruises Port Arthur Bus Service Tasman Island Cruises Tasmanian Seafood Seduction Three Capes Track Wineglass Bay Cruises

Our Story & Awards Boats & Buses Environmental Sustainability Community Sustainability Employment -->

About Under Down Under Tours

Based in Hobart, Under Down Under is a locally owned and operated Tasmanian tour operator.

Established in 1996, we specialise in small group tours of Tasmania. Our guided tours take place over multiple days with most guests spending between 5 and 10 days to experience the highlights of Tasmania. With a maximum of 24 guests per tour, our quality tour guides deliver personal and authentic Tasmanian experiences.

Our tours enable a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to experience Tasmania. We focus on visiting Tasmania’s outstanding National Parks and cultural heritage sites, while travelling with minimal impact principles.

This year, we were inducted into the Hall of Fame for Ecotourism Australia, representing 20 years of certification as an Advanced Eco-certified tour operator. We are excited to have become the first Tasmanian tour operator to do so.

Our passion is in operating exceptional and responsible tours where guests can experience Tasmania’s  Wild Places, Wildlife and Wild Fun.

Our vision is to create genuine Tasmanian experiences that are respectful, responsible and exceptional, powered by great people, delivering life-long memories and friendships for everyone we meet, and we’ll have fun doing it.

Why travel with us?

Under Down Under’s relaxed and laid-back pace allows you to spend more time out of the bus than in. Our small comfortable minibuses keep our tour groups small so you will never feel crowded or lost. We offer a wide range of tour options and itineraries. Our tours offer an alternative way to travel for those wanting a no-hassle and value for money way to experience Tasmania.

Tours are adventure and environment orientated, and you will experience the wilderness, the wildlife, the history the culture and the colourful people on every tour.

At Under Down Under, we care about what matters most – you and Tasmania.

Advanced Eco Certified Since 2002

We are proudly Advanced Eco Certified. Our small group tours operate with minimal impact on the environment.  Our guides enable you to learn about Tassie’s nature, history and culture. Our aim is for you to enjoy amazing travel experiences while treading lightly on our planet.

Preserving and Respecting Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

We are Respect Our Culture certified through Ecotourism Australia.  On our tours you will learn about aboriginal cultural heritage and palawa’s spiritual connection to lutruwita (Tasmania). We are committed to presenting indigenous heritage honestly and respectfully.

We are serious about climate change

As a certified Climate Action Business, we take steps to reduce our carbon emissions.

Travelling on one of our modern and economical buses is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to experience Tasmania. For the carbon emissions we can’t avoid, you can reduce your carbon footprint by donating a tree (each native tree costs $4).

Visit  Carbon Positive Australia , select how many trees you wish to donate, send us your donation receipt and  we’ll match your donation!

We operate by ‘Sustainable Best Practice’ principles

Under Down Under is a Sustainable Tourism Accredited Business which recognises best practice in the tourism industry.  This qualification recognises us as a professional, ethical and reliable operator, which delivers high quality tourism experiences.

Your fellow travellers

We are an inclusive tour company and welcome solo travellers, couples, and groups, from Australia and around the world. The minimum age is 8 and there is no maximum. Come alone, or with others, and you’ll be pleased with the new friendships made during your journey. According to a guest: “The group was made up of various ages and nationalities who connected extremely well, we had lots of fun and were all friends by the end of the tour.”

Our guides are our heroes

Our guides are professional, knowledgeable, and great fun too, and will really make your experience exceptional. For example, one guest wrote “Our tour guide, Anthony was informative, caring and attentive to every person, no request was too difficult.” Search for reviews about Under Down Under and the quality of our guides is mentioned time and again.

Work with us

If you would like to become one of our outstanding guides, please contact for more information.

Have a question?

Need to ask a question or want to leave some feedback? We’d love to hear from you! Email us using the below form or give us a call on 03 6232 4800 .

• Things To do
• Restaurants
• 10 Eco Tours in Tasmania That You Shouldn't Miss

City: Tasmania

Top things to do in tasmania, top hotels in tasmania.

• 1. Grand Chancellor Hotel Hobart
• 2. MACq 01 Hotel
• 3. Movenpick Hotel Hobart
• 4. Peppers Silo Hotel
• 5. Vibe Hotel Hobart
• 6. Hotel Verge
• 7. Lenna of Hobart
• 8. Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston
• 9. Hadley's Orient Hotel
• 10. Moss Hotel
• Republic of Macedonia

10 Eco Tours in Tasmania That You Shouldn't Miss

Tasmania (/tæzˈmeɪniə/; abbreviated as Tas and known colloquially as Tassie) is an island state of Australia. It is located 240 km (150 mi) to the south of the Australian mainland, separated by the Bass Strait. The state encompasses the main island of Tasmania, the 26th-largest island in the world, and the surrounding 334 islands. The state has a population of around 519,100 as of June 2016, just over forty percent of which resides in the Greater Hobart precinct, which forms the metropolitan area of the state capital and largest city, Hobart. Restaurants in Tasmania

1. Freycinet Experience Walk

Overall ratings.

5.0 based on 20 reviews

This is the original and award-winning Freycinet Experience Walk – a four-day guided adventure covering the entire length of the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s sublimely beautiful east coast, including the iconic Wineglass Bay. Walk beaches of powder white sand. Hike spectacular pink granite mountains carrying only a small daypack. Explore the region by boat, go fishing, snorkelling, and travel to uninhabited Schouten island. Discover forests of towering white gums where you and your walking companions, a maximum of 10, feel like the only souls on Earth. Then return each evening to the award-winning Friendly Beaches Lodge, nestled in its own secluded sanctuary, where delicious, candle-lit meals, steaming hot showers, deep baths,​ and comfortable beds await. This is an all inclusive tour: return transfers from Hobart, three nights accommodation at Friendly Beaches Lodge, exclusive to your walking group. Please search Freycinet Experience Friendly Beaches lodge for more reviews.​

2. Tasman Island Cruises

5.0 based on 814 reviews

Explore the spectacular coast of the Tasman Peninsula with Robert Pennicott and his team on the yellow boats. Cruise beneath the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere and explore the deep sea caves and archways along the coast. Come face to face with wildlife including seals, dolphins, whales and sea birds. Tasman Island Cruises depart from Port Arthur or you can join our Full Day Tour from Hobart.

3. Bruny Island Cruises

5.0 based on 1,495 reviews

Bruny Island Cruises is an award-winning 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise exploring the rugged coastline of Bruny Island in southern Tasmania. Cruise alongside some of Australia's highest sea cliffs, beneath towering crags and drift up close to listen to the awesome 'Breathing Rock'. Enter deep sea caves, pass through the narrow gap between the coast and 'The Monument' and feel the power of nature at the point where the Tasman Sea meets the might of the Southern Ocean. Join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds. The highly trained interpretive guides love what they do - they work hard to ensure that the experience is fun, enjoyable, entertaining and informative. The custom-built yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular coastline and wildlife of Bruny Island. Each vessel holds a maximum of 43 guests.

4. Love Tasmania Tours - Day Tours

5.0 based on 4 reviews

A Hobart based coach tour company offering sightseeing tours to some of the best tourist experiences in Tasmania, experiences we are sure you will love. We offer single day tours and multi day tours to all parts of Tasmania. Specialising in tailor-made tours for your group, we also have a range of pre-packaged tours for you to choose from. We are an Australian Tourism Quality Assured Business.

5. SV Rhona H

5.0 based on 144 reviews

Heritage Sailing Tasmania showcases SV Rhona H Gaff rigged Ketch. She is an historic vessel: built in 1942 by the famous ship wright Ned Jack. We offer a range of tours from private trips, public sails, cruises in the River Derwent and further afield. Our regular schedule is to sail Saturdays and Sunday's and in summer offer twilight excursions as well! All proceeds gained form the boat go back into the maintenance of the vessel and keeping the "Head Waves" philosophy alive. Head Waves: 1. Traditional sailing and nautical skills on an authentic historic vessel 2. Conservation and environmental awareness 3. Health promotion with an emphasis of "mindfulness" and being in the moment as part of a great team. We feature Tasmanian products on all our trips: every sail includes refreshments! Contact us to discover all the opportunities available.

6. Under Down Under Tours

5.0 based on 485 reviews

Under Down Under specialises in small group tours throughout Tasmania. With the largest range of tours; we provide visitors with a hassle free, and eco friendly way to experience the state on a budget. Our tours have a focus on sharing adventures through Tasmania's Wilderness with like minded travellers, and showing you what makes Tasmania such a great place!

7. Bay of Fires Eco Tours

5.0 based on 156 reviews

Come aboard 'Infurneaux' a state of the art, Eco tourism vessel. Head out from Binalong Bay and experience the Bay of Fires at it’s finest, the pristine white sandy beaches, lichen covered boulders, hidden bays and striking headlands of this breathtakingly beautiful coastline. The Bay of Fires stretches for nearly 30kms and there is no better way to soak up this amazing scenery than from the water. With three different tours on offer covering all or part of the Bay of Fires, our fully guided tours offer not only magnificent scenery, but the chance to encounter an abundance of sea life.

8. Wildside Tours Tasmania

5.0 based on 14 reviews

Wildside Tours Tasmania will be back soon!! We have had a break (like a lot of the world) but are planning some good things!

9. Eco Tours Tasmania

5.0 based on 11 reviews

Eco Tours Tasmania is a Hobart based tour business offering small group sight seeing and nature based tours in our modern luxury mini bus. Our Guides work with passion to show the best of Tasmania’s natural environment, scenery and history.

10. Luxury Golf & Scenic Tours Tasmania

5.0 based on 18 reviews

Presenting our precious guests with multiple choices on available packages, it is important that we can fully customise a package to suit your needs. Maybe you and your group would like a mixture of golf, produce and scenic days to complete a dream trip, then let’s make this a reality. Contact us today for a no obligation quote!

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.

26 ECO-certified tours around Australia

Emily Murphy

Social Media Manager & Writer

13 February 2023

For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified tours.

When organising our travel, ensuring that we leave the area as good (or better) than before is so important. And nobody knows the environment better than the locals, which is why tours are such a great, hassle-free way to see the sights.

We’ve found the top ECO-certified tours in Australia that not only take the stress out of planning for you but are also proven to take sustainability seriously. Ecotourism Australia ’s ECO-certified experiences are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices, so travellers are sure to find high-quality nature-based tourism experiences no matter what their interests are. Here are some of our favourites.

We’ve also covered the top ECO-certified attractions and accommodations in another article to help you round out your sustainable travel options.

1. AAT Kings – Inspiring Journeys

Discover ancient cultures and rugged destinations with the guiding hand of an expert at Inspiring Journeys . It offers the perfect balance of freedom from the stress of holiday planning, and just enough flexibility to shape your journey with a choice of optional experiences.

2. Coral Expeditions

As an Australian eco-accredited expedition cruise line, Coral Expeditions take small groups of eco-aware travellers to the most beautiful and remote destinations in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the South Pacific and Indian Ocean Islands.

3. Trek Tasmania, Tas

Trek Tasmania is a boutique tour company focused on taking small groups onto the paths less travelled and into the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness. Their specialty is offering quality, deep immersion wilderness experiences, and their commitment is to sustainable eco-tourism principles.

Trekking through Tasmania is the best way to see it. (Image: Tayla Gentle)

4. Moonshadow Cruises, NSW

With vessels operating from Port Stephens Harbour , Moonshadow Cruises offer a range of scheduled cruises and private charter options. In port or at sea, for whale or dolphin watching, lunch or dinner, corporate events, birthdays, weddings or Christmas parties.

Spot a dolphin on a Moonshadow Cruise. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Elixir Journeys, Central Coast, NSW

At Elixir Journeys , they are all about private and small-group nature-based experiences that will engage the senses, hyper-local products with low-carbon impact and great hosts. All of the experiences are crafted with attention to detail, love, and little luxury touches, and ensure just the right balance of activity and relaxation.

6. Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, Vic

On the Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk , everything is taken care of. The only job is to put one foot in front of the other. They’ll show you the way, carry all the extras on their back and point out natural features. Plus, you’ll get scrumptious lunches, daypacks and walking sticks, cool lemonade and soothing foot baths at the end of each walk. Return each evening to the private eco-lodge where you’ll be served gourmet meals complemented by local wines and beers.

The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk is the ultimate tour. (Image: Visit Victoria)

7. Flinders Ranges Odysseys, SA

Tour guides from Flinders Ranges Odysseys , a sister company to Kangaroo Island Odysseys have the same passion for the outback of South Australia as they do for Kangaroo Island. When touring with Flinders Ranges Odysseys tour guides, you won’t believe the incredible mountain range spanning 430 kilometres, its ancient landscapes, significant aboriginal heritage, and its pioneering history.

8. SA Eco Tours, SA

Discover one of the world’s oldest landscapes, the vast areas of unspoilt wilderness, unique wildlife and rich traditional aboriginal culture that is Outback South Australia. Taking small group eco safaris to the Flinders Ranges and the Yorke Peninsula, SA Eco Tours offers high-end private charters and special interest groups. SA Eco Tours offers authentic encounters, allows maximum freedom and has the utmost respect for the environment, nature and local people.

9. Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures, SA

Having seen and experienced the island from both land and sea with its unspoilt beaches, breathtaking scenery and abundance of wildlife, Kangaroo Island Marine Tours can provide you with an insight into the true beauty of Kangaroo Island.

See a dolphin at Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

10. Untamed Escapes, SA and WA

Untamed Escapes connects travellers from all walks of life with adventure, wildlife, wellness and epicurean experiences in nature. Guided by the region’s most passionate storytellers, the small group and exclusive private tours roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia in the regions between Perth and Adelaide.

Roam over two-thirds of untamed Australia. (Image: Riley M Williams)

11. HeliSpirit, WA and NT

Multi-award-winning HeliSpirit operates a fleet of helicopters at key locations across the Kimberley including Kununurra, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) and Mitchell Falls, as well as Katherine Gorge and Karratha. Take to the air to discover the awe-inspiring landscapes with a scenic flight or an extended Luxury Helicopter Safari.

Take a scenic flight with HeliSpirit. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Margaret River Discovery Co, WA

The Margaret River Discovery Company offers personalised tours, hosted by expert local guide Sean Blocksidge and his luxury 4WD on a wine and scenic tour that takes you behind the tourist facade, away from the masses to discover people and places you won’t find on your own.

13. Lombadina Tours, WA

Set amidst a tropical oasis, Lombadina offers accommodation that gives you an opportunity to share community life, escape the harsh elements of the Kimberley and time to enjoy one of the most beautiful swimming beaches in the world.

Go fishing with an Aboriginal tour guide at Lombadina. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive, WA

Ningaloo Whaleshark n Dive provides tours and activities for guests of all ages and fitness levels to experience the Ningaloo Reef . The tours include an Interaction swim with a Whalesharks day tour, Swim with Humpback whale tours and the lovely relaxing Humpback sunset tour.

Go swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

15. Alice Springs Helicopters, NT

Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights and private charters, over Alice Springs township, East and West MacDonnell Ranges, Old Telegraph Station, Mt Gillen, Heavitree Gap, and Simpsons Gap, just to mention a few. All flights showcase the amazing natural landscapes of the Red Centre region and are available daily.

Alice Springs Helicopters offer a broad range of scenic flights. (Image: Tourism NT and Salty Aura)

16. Nitmiluk Tours, NT

Consisting of 13 separate gorges, Nitmiluk Gorge is a maze of waterways sculpted from the sandstone over countless millennia by the Katherine River. Nitmiluk Tours is the specialist agent offering a great variety of tours that allow you to immerse yourself in the history, rugged beauty and culture of this majestic region.

Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park. (Image: Tourism NT and Charlie Bliss)

17. Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris, NT

Mt Borradaile is a registered Aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. From floodplains to savannah woodlands, Davidson’s Arnehmland Safaris focus is on sustainable tourism showcasing the pristine natural environment and local indigenous culture of the Amurdak people.

Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris at Mt Borradaile is a registered aboriginal sacred site nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment. (Image: Tourism Australia and James Fisher)

18. Venture North Safaris, NT

Venture North offer guided micro-group 4WD tours from Darwin in the Northern Territory. Catering to the higher end of the touring market they specialise in taking guests off the beaten track in style. Touring routes included Kakadu , Litchfield and Katherine but also the more remote area such as the Kimberley and Arnhem Land.

Venture into Arnhem Land and be immersed in Aboriginal culture on Venture North’s 4 Day Arnhem Land and Cobourg Peninsula Tour. (Image: Tourism NT and James Fisher)

19. Northern Territory Indigenous Tours, NT

Northern Territory Indigenous Tours offers an expert interpretation of the Top End’s natural and cultural environment from an Aboriginal viewpoint. Experience inspiration, education and adventure in comfort and safety on the owner, guide and former park ranger, Tess Atie’s rugged and beautiful country.

20. Kimberley Quest, WA

Kimberley Quest is a luxury cruise company operating a range of extended wilderness expeditions along the stunning Kimberley coast, cruising between Broome and Darwin. With a maximum of 18 guests, you will cruise in complete comfort and luxury on Kimberley Quest II, a 25-metre vessel custom-designed for relaxing and exploring.

21. Great Adventures Green Island Cruises, Qld

From Cairns, Great Adventures operates ecotourism-based cruises to tropical Green Island , which is also home to the eco-sensitive Green Island Resort. With Great Adventures, you can choose from full and half-day trips to Green Island.

Great Adventures runs daily cruises to tropical Green Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

22. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Qld

Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures is the ultimate eco-adventure for the traveller that enjoys experiencing wildlife in a natural setting. This award-winning attraction offers an activity-packed day with crocodile cruises and an array of wildlife presentations.

Feeding time… (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. Saltwater Eco Tours, Qld

Operating on the peaceful waterways of the Mooloolah River, Saltwater Eco Tours is the first of its kind on the Sunshine Coast. Combining Indigenous culture, maritime history, and live music, and surrounded by the beauty of the coastline and ocean in view, Saltwater Eco Tours truly captures the essence of the Sunshine Coast .

Enjoy the delicious catering with a bush twist. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

24. Ocean Safari Cape Tribulation, Qld

Ocean Safari offers an exhilarating 25-minute ride to snorkel the pristine untouched Great Barrier Reef off the Daintree Coast at Cape Tribulation. This half-day eco-tour visits two different snorkel destinations, Mackay and Undine Reefs, each with an extraordinary array of marine life, turtles and coral species.

Do you know the difference between an island and a sand cay? (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

25. Sailaway, Qld

Sailaway sets off from Port Douglas and sets the highest level of nature experiences on the Great Barrier Reef. Offering first-class service, small numbers of guests, premium sailing and snorkelling experiences to Low Isles and Mackay/Undine Coral Cays.

The day trip from Port Douglas is dreamy. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

26. Ocean Freedom – Cairns Premier Reef and Island Tours, Qld

Ocean Freedom provides a first-class way to experience the Great Barrier Reef without the crowds. Ocean Freedom is the only boat in Cairns offering a full 6 hours on the reef, meaning there’s absolutely no rush in the day. Experience an adventure drift snorkel tour and jump on board for an informative glass bottom boat tour.

Emily Murphy found her passion for writing at a young age and knew her future was in travel after she moved overseas solo at 18. Em loves to write about beautiful, under-the-radar destinations and anything that will ignite a desire in more people to explore the vastness and beauty that is Australia. She is a devoted bun mum and in her spare time you'll find her by the sea, reading a good book, binge-watching a TV show or exploring Sydney's dining scene.

LEAVE YOUR COMMENT

Cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You might also like

17 best natural spa baths around Australia

From mineral springs to mud baths, these are Australia's best natural spa baths to put on your weekend bucket list. 1. Peninsula Hot Springs, Morning...

20 ECO-certified attractions around Australia

For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified attractions. For more and more Australians, sustainability i...

How many of these eccentrically Aussie experiences have you had?

Get your Akubra out, chuck your thongs on and head down to Bunnings for a snag sanga. It’s time to show just how Aussie you are. In Australia, we d...

Australia’s best outback road trips

Take a journey into the vast, red heart of Australia and discover the magic of the outback. Here are seven of Australia’s best outback road trips to...

Find all 100 Amazing Road Trips here

Discover Australia's top 100 Amazing Road Trips. Start planning your next road trip by reading our 100 Amazing Road Trips by experience below. Coast...

The best two-wheeler trips in Australia

Not all road trips require four wheels. Sometimes riding freely atop your two-wheeler can be just as exhilarating, especially in Australia. Here are s...

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

Bruny Island Cruises

• Bruny Island Traveller
• Fluted Cape Walk
• Iron Pot Cruises
• Seafood Seduction
• Port Arthur Bus
• Tasman Island Cruises
• Three Capes Track
• Wineglass Bay Cruises
• Wilsons Promontory
• Our Story & Awards
• Boats & Buses
• Environment

Travel Trade

• Times & Prices
• Our Restaurant
• Our Visitor Centre
• Explore Bruny Island
• Explore Southern Trove
• Explore Hobart

• Environmental Sustainability
• Community Sustainability
• Employment Opportunities
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)

Winner of Australia's Best Tourist Attraction 2012, 2014, 2015

Bruny island cruises is an award-winning cruise exploring the rugged coastline of bruny island in southern tasmania..

Cruise alongside some of Australia's highest sea cliffs, beneath towering crags and drift up close to listen to the awesome 'Breathing Rock'. Enter Bruny Island's deep sea caves, pass through the narrow gap between the coast and 'The Monument' and feel the power of nature at the point where the Tasman Sea meets the might of the Southern Ocean.

Join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating whales and sea birds. The highly trained interpretive guides love what they do - they work hard to ensure that the experience is fun, enjoyable, entertaining and informative.

The custom-built yellow boats are ideal for viewing the spectacular Bruny Island coastline and wildlife. Each vessel holds a maximum of 43 guests. Covered open-air tiered seating means an excellent all-round view and connection with the Bruny Island environment. The boats have been created for these journeys and they are gentle on the environment due to their fuel efficiency, low emission and quiet operation.

Tour Options & Prices          Book Now   

Towering cliffs, caves and seastacks

Incredible encounters with wildlife

Keep a close lookout for sea eagles soaring above the cliffs, pods of dolphins surfing the bow wave, albatross wheeling on the wind and shearwaters skimming the swells.  At the Friars, you'll drift quietly past rare nesting seabirds and a large haul-out home to thousands of seals.  

TOUR OPTIONS

The cruise departs daily from Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.  You can drive yourself to Adventure Bay, or take our bus from Kettering or Hobart.

• Cruise + Bus from Kettering

Full Day Tour from Hobart

The cruise departs daily from Adventure Bay on Bruny Island.  If you have your own car, you can drive yourself to Adventure Bay and join the cruise.

Cruise Times

10:00am Cruise (1 December to 28 April) Catch 7:10, 7:50 or 8:10 Ferry from Kettering Check in by 9:30am, Cruise 10am to 1pm approximately

11:00am Cruise (All Year) Catch 7:50, 8:50 or 9:10am Ferry from Kettering Check in by 10.30am, Cruise 11am to 2pm approximately

1:30pm Cruise (1 December to 28 April) Catch 10:30, 10:50, 11:10 or 11:30 Ferry from Kettering Check in by 1pm, Cruise 1:30pm to 4:30pm approximately

Getting There

From Hobart, you'll need to drive 45 minutes south to the Bruny Island Ferry Terminal in Kettering. The Bruny Island Ferry is operated by SeaLink. We suggest arriving at the ferry terminal 30 minutes prior to the ferry departure. The SeaLink ferry crossing takes 15-20 minutes and once you're on Bruny Island, it's a 40 minute drive south to our visitor centre at 1005 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay.   Click here for Maps, Driving Directions and Bruny Island Ferry times .

Morning Tea & Lunch

Food is not included in the tour price.  Guests are welcome to bring their own food, or morning tea/lunch can be purchased from our  Bruny Island Cruises Restaurant . 

Important Information

Make sure you dress warmly for the cruise - warm jackets, scarves, beanies and gloves are recommended. And don't forget your camera!

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability.  Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions . 

If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms then you should not travel on our cruises. We would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking.   

For information about accessibility, download our Accessibility Guide .

Our Flexible Cancellation Policy   

If you book directly with us, we have a very flexible cancellation policy:

• No cancellation fees if you need to cancel due to COVID  right up to the time of departure.  This includes if you are unwell or if you have to change your travel plans due to flight changes or travel restrictions.  We will happily move your booking to another day or provide you with a full refund.  Please note you need to advise us prior to departure so that we have an opportunity to re-sell the seats. 
• For non-COVID related cancellations our normal cancellation policy applies . We reserve the right to charge 100% for cancellations within 24 hours of departure.  Bookings are fully flexible up to 24 hours prior to the tour departure. 

Please note that if you book through a third-party website or travel agent, they each impose their own cancellation policies and restrictions.  

Duration   3 Hours Approximately

Operates   Daily, except Christmas Day

Departs From 1005 Adventure Bay Road Adventure Bay Bruny Island View on Map

Prices Adult $175 Child (3-16 yrs) $105 Family $540 (2 adults, 3 children)

3 Hour Cruise + Bus from Kettering

Leave your car at Kettering and catch our daily tour bus, which joins up with the 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise.

Arrive by 8.30am to meet the bus at the Oyster Cove Marina in Kettering, where there is free parking available.  The tour includes the 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise, SeaLink ferry crossing and commentary from one of our local guides. 

08:30am - Arrive at our Kettering Meeting Point (Oyster Cove Marina) 09:00am - SeaLink Ferry Crossing  10:30am - Arrive at Adventure Bay 11:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 02:00pm - Cruise concludes 03:15pm - Bus departs for return journey 04:30pm - Ferry crossing 04:45pm - Arrive Kettering 

Tours operate daily except Christmas Day, however bookings are essential as places are subject to availability. Bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions .

During the COVID-19 pandemic we will not allow guests to join our tours if we believe they are unwell.  If you are feeling unwell or display flu-like symptoms we would encourage you to contact us and cancel your booking. Full refunds are available for customers who cancel due to illness or travel restrictions during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Duration   8¼ Hours Approximately (8:30am - 4:45pm)

Departs From Oyster Cove Marina Kettering View on Map

Prices Adult $190 Child (3-16 yrs) $120 Family $600 (2 adults, 3 children)

Why not join our Full Day Tour from Hobart for the ultimate Bruny Island Cruises experience.  Your day includes return guided bus tour, SeaLink ferry crossing, 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise, morning tea, lunch and commentary from our local guides.  

07:45am - Departs from Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre 09:00am - SeaLink Ferry crossing  10.30am - Morning Tea at Adventure Bay 11:00am - 3 Hour Wilderness Cruise 02:00pm - Cruise concludes, Lunch 03:15pm - Bus departs for return journey 04:30pm - Ferry crossing 05:30pm - Arrive Hobart, hotel drop-off 

Departure Point

The Full Day Tour departs from the Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Booking Centre.  This is situated on Hobart's waterfront on Franklin Wharf, next to the Constitution Dock Lifting Bridge.  This is a short walk or taxi ride from most Hobart CBD hotels. Please check-in ready for a 7.45am departure. 

If you have your own car, we don't have any parking available.  There is all-day parking available nearby at the Evans Street Car Park or Market Place Car Park - click here for more information .

Your day includes morning tea and lunch served at our Bruny Island Cruises Restaurant . Morning tea is a freshly baked blueberry muffin and a hot/cold drink.  For lunch you can enjoy premium fish & chips, or delicious homemade pumpkin soup and a gourmet salad roll with your choice of Tasmanian Salmon or local ham.  Gluten free & vegetarian options available. Click here for more details .

Duration   9¾ Hours Approximately (7:45am - 5:30pm)

Departs From Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Dock Head Building Franklin Wharf Hobart TAS 7000 View on Map

Prices Adult $265 Child (3-16 yrs) $195

GUEST IMAGES

More information.

Let us help you to make the most of your visit to Bruny Island.

Do I Need to Book?

We recommended booking a few days ahead as our boats are often full and you may be disappointed if you chance to just turn up on the day. We are flexible with bookings so it is not a problem if you decide to change to another day or cancel, whatever the reason. No fee is charged for cancellations before the cruise date (so long as you contact us).

What about the weather?

Our boats are designed to suit the coastline along which we travel and we will certainly make the most of any weather conditions. Our bookings are fully flexible so if you decide the weather on the day is not for you, you can give us a call and we can change your reservation to a different day. Our staff are upfront about the weather and you are welcome to contact us a day or two ahead to get an honest indication of the forecasted weather. Of course, in Tasmania the weather can at times be a little surprising and so a forecast is exactly that, a forecast!

What about sea sickness?

Being in open ocean, sea sickness can be an issue for a small number of people. We have had 13 years experience in dealing with this and have developed some very effective techniques to minimise the chance of sea sickness occurring.

We offer all-natural Travel Calm Ginger tablets to everyone when they step onboard. This product has proven extremely effective in preventing sea sickness in most people. Our staff can also suggest a number of things to further assist in minimising the chances of any sea sickness symptoms:

• Selecting a seat in the back third of the boat (there is a lot less movement up the back of the boat)
• Keeping your body temperature on the cooler side
• If you wear glasses or sunglasses keep the lenses clean at all times
• Avoid looking through cameras, binoculars etc
• Stay away from acidic foods before the cruise such as Orange Juice and coffee

We do emphasise that communication is the key - if you have any concerns please let our staff know.

What do I need to wear?

It is important that you are adequately dressed because it is cold on the boats, even in summer. Warm jackets gloves, scarves & beanies are a good idea. We provide wet weather jackets which go over the top of your clothing, but we encourage you to bring a few warm layers of your own.

Can hire cars go onto Bruny Island?

Generally Yes. The road from the Ferry Terminal to our Booking Centre in Adventure Bay is fully sealed - there is no need to travel on any gravel roads. There is a short ferry crossing, which is not normally a concern for hire car companies. If you are concerned, we suggest confirming with your hire car company whether there are any restrictions. Alternatively, you can always join our Kettering Bus Pick Up Service.

Are young children OK?

Children of all ages are welcome aboard our boats and we take many children along on our cruises. As parents you are probably the best judge as to how your children will cope with being out on the water for 3 hours, but we have found that the majority of children enjoy the experience and love seeing the amazing wildlife, huge cliffs and caves along the Bruny coastline.

Is the cruise OK while pregnant?

For the majority of days the cruise is quite suitable for pregnant women and we have had lots do our trip. Our boats are custom built for the coastline that we cruise along. They are able to cut through chop and therefore we can avoid the bumping of waves that some boats experience. It is a good idea to take into account the weather conditions on the day of the cruise as this will effect comfort levels for someone who is heavily pregnant. You can contact us a day or two ahead to get a weather report for the day of your cruise and we are happy to move or cancel bookings if it is not looking suitable for you.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

1005 Adventure Bay Road Bruny Island

(03) 6293 1465

Terms & Conditions

[email protected]

Our Journeys

Bruny Island Cruises Bruny Island Traveller Fluted Cape Walk Iron Pot Cruises Port Arthur Bus Service Tasman Island Cruises Tasmanian Seafood Seduction Three Capes Track Wineglass Bay Cruises

Our Story & Awards Boats & Buses Environmental Sustainability Community Sustainability Employment -->

• Tripadvisor

Eco Boat Tour

Conservation projects, disconnect from the everyday. reconnect with nature..

Make treasured memories on our signature Eco Boat Tour , a fun and relaxing journey through the ecosystem of the Abel Tasman National Park. We explore the wonderous Islands, forests, beaches, rivers and seas of Te Tai Tapu (The Sacred Coast).

Find out more about our authentic and inspiring Eco Boat Tour guided by locals who are passionate about conservation and preserving it.

"OPENING YOUR EYES"

Embrace exploration & conservation.

View the stunning surroundings through an ecological lense.

Explore the coastal wonders and hidden waterways where maritime, fresh water and bird life can be seen in their natural habitats.

Our passionate guides love sharing their knowledge and know where to find the wildlife!

Personalised and flexible tours, we work with nature not timetables.

Conservation projects we support

We fund and support local conservation projects and sustainability. A dollar per person who goes on tour with us goes to each of these organisations we support.

We acknowledge our impact and strive to leave a positive result through our environmental, educational and community work.

Connect with an agent

A realtor.com coordinator will connect you with a local agent in minutes.

A local real estate agent can answer questions, give guidance, and schedule home tours.

By proceeding, you consent to receive calls and texts at the number you provided, including marketing by autodialer and prerecorded and artificial voice, and email, from Realtor.com and others Persons who may contact you include real estate professionals such as agents and brokers, mortgage professionals such as lenders and mortgage brokers, realtor.com and its affiliates, insurers or their agents, and those who may be assisting any of the foregoing. about your inquiry and other home-related matters, but not as a condition of any purchase. More You also agree to our Terms of Use, and to our Privacy Policy regarding the information relating to you. Msg/data rates may apply. This consent applies even if you are on a corporate, state or national Do Not Call list.

A Realtor.com coordinator will call you shortly

What’s next.

• A coordinator will ask a few questions about your home buying or selling needs.
• You’ll be introduced to an agent from our real estate professional network.

To connect right away, call (855) 650-5492

( Realtor.com; Getty Images )

Real Estate Listings Are Going Green: 5 Eco-Friendly Sales Features on the Rise Right Now

Remember when you used to rubberneck at the sight of solar panels on someone’s roof, or wonder why your neighbors ditched their lush green lawn in favor of xeriscaping?

Today, eco-friendly home features are becoming commonplace as we all work in small ways to combat the effects of climate change and cut down the costs of our utility bills.

This earth-forward trend is even showing up in the tactics we use to sell our homes: Over the past six years, the share of Realtor.com® listing descriptions mentioning various eco-friendly terms—e.g., “energy efficient,” “zero energy,” “solar panels”—has risen at a slow but steady pace.

(Realtor.com)

According to our research, the growth of green-friendly listings over this time frame has practically doubled. In 2018, there were 76,335 listings with prominent eco terms in the language, but by 2023, that number had jumped to 150,388.

Homes that tout “energy-efficienct” in their listing language have just about tripled, from 10,756 in 2018 to a whopping 29,288 just five years later.

Even those less-than-sexy rows of solar panels that were once considered anomalies are finding more fans, according to our data.

In 2018, nearly 25,000 home listings were advertising these ray-catchers, while last year that figure rose to almost 51,000.

Why eco-friendly listings are on the rise

“The rise in eco-friendly home listings mirrors trends we’ve seen in specific categories, such as for EV-friendly homes, called out in the team’s deep dive on the most EV-friendly housing markets ,” says Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale . “The data suggest that consumer tastes and preferences are leaning in an earth-friendly direction, and sellers are positioning their properties to meet those new and growing demands.”

Some homeowners are driven to save not just the environment, but also some cash—in the form of government kickbacks for adding eco-forward features to their homes.

“It’s worth noting that there are both carrots and sticks nudging homeowners to adopt more eco-friendly features,” Hale continues. “The Inflation Reduction Act included at least two provisions to rebate households for making electric and energy-efficient improvements, and there are many other state and local area incentives.”

Ways to go green at home

While not every homeowner can build a passive house from scratch, there are many ways to make a home more eco-friendly.

Better quality roofing is one avenue to try as this material reflects the sun’s heat, according to RJ D’Angelo , owner of  JWE Remodeling & Roofing . Redoing your home’s insulation or upgrading your appliances to more efficient, greener brands (like Energy Star) are two other ways to go.

Many new-construction homes incorporate earth-friendly features from the ground up.

“I’m mostly seeing these amenities in new construction, especially as it relates to insulation, encapsulation in crawl spaces, and the way HVAC systems are engineered—and I do think it creates resale value,” says Jessica Grier , a real estate broker with Premier Sotheby’s International in Charlotte, NC.

Curious to learn more about green home features you could buy in a home? Here are some other eco-friendly terms that are gaining traction.

Electric vehicle chargers

Electric vehicles are starting to flood the market—so it makes perfect sense that home listings will include the terms “EV charging” and “EV charger” in their language. These two phrases shot up from 212 and 139 in 2018 to 1,174 and 1,058 respectively in 2023.

And lately, there’s help with the costs. Government policies, like rebate programs, are in place to help motivate folks to consider buying an EV, which means charging stations at home should continue to burgeon.

Passive houses

A passive house is one that meets a certain standard of energy efficiency created by the International Passive House Association that combines strong insulation with specially coated windows. The result is a home that prevents warm air from escaping your rooms and blocks cold breezes that might waft in from the outside.

Since this type of construction is still rare, it makes sense that very few are up for sale. Currently, there are 86 on the market, up from 57 six years earlier. This tracks appropriately since there are only 250 certified passive buildings in this country.

 Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping —which involves replacing lush green lawns with native plants that don’t need much watering—might still be uncommon, but it’s growing in popularity as a real estate sales feature, with 721 mentions in listings in 2023 compared with 513 in 2018.

According to  Patric k Barrett , enhancements lead at FormLA Landscaping , this gardening approach does use less water, but since fire is a risk in some areas, it’s important to include hydrated foliage and smart irrigation too.

Tankless water heater

Upfront expenses are definitely higher for energy-saving tankless water heaters , but they’ll save you money down the road in hot water costs. The term “tankless water heater” has also taken off in listings data, nearly doubling from 35,000 mentions in 2018 to 57,400 last year.

Edible gardens

The “edible garden” trend peaked in 2020 when 322 listings nationwide mentioned them as a sales point. (Remember all those COVID-19 pandemic victory gardens ?) And although they’ve dipped to just 246 mentions in 2023, that’s still a respectable amount of farm-to-table action out there that many homeowners will see as a plus not just for the earth, but also come dinnertime.

Jennifer Kelly Geddes creates content for WhatToExpect.com, American Airlines Vacations, Oxo, Livestrong, and Parade.

Twitter Follow @jkgeddes

• Related Articles

Share this Article