Planning a day that combines Tasmania’s best wines, art, and gourmet food? Then Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona might just be your ideal match. This full-day package promises a sophisticated yet relaxed encounter with some of Tasmania’s most celebrated culinary and cultural treasures—all bundled into a seamless, private experience.
What makes this tour attractive? First, it offers a luxurious ferry ride with a private lounge and drinks, setting a stylish tone from the start. Second, it delivers a long, carefully curated lunch paired with flagship wines, providing both flavor and insight.
But, of course, no experience is perfect, and the most notable consideration is the seven-hour duration, which might feel long for some travelers, especially if you prefer a more relaxed or flexible pace.
This tour is clearly designed for those who appreciate fine wine, art, and gourmet dining—and want a private, insider experience that balances education, elegance, and fun. If you’re a curious connoisseur or an art lover eager to explore Mona’s galleries without the crowds, this could be a highlight of your Tasmania trip.
Key Points
- Exclusive access to one of Australia’s largest private museums and its thought-provoking collections.
- Gourmet lunch with wine pairings, guided by knowledgeable staff and a sommelier.
- Luxury transportation aboard Mona’s private ferry with complimentary drinks.
- Personalized experience tailored for private groups, with flexible cancellation policies.
- Insightful guided tours at Moorilla winery and Mona’s art galleries.
- Take-home gift to remember the day by, adding a personal touch to the experience.
An Overview of the Moorilla Big Day Out
The journey begins at Hobart’s Brooke Street Pier, where you’ll board a luxurious ferry in the Posh Pit, a private lounge area designed to elevate the experience. As the ferry glides across the Derwent River, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and canapés and views of James Turrell’s monumental Amarna, a striking art installation that sets an inspiring tone for the day ahead.
Once you arrive at Mona, the Museum of Old and New Art, you’re greeted by your expert guide or Moorilla’s host, who will lead you through a seven-hour adventure blending wine, art, and cuisine.
The Winery Tour and Tastings
Your first stop inside Moorilla’s historic winery is a guided tour where your host explains the process and techniques behind their acclaimed wines. Expect to learn about the winery’s unique approach to winemaking and its focus on local produce and sustainability.
From there, you’ll head into the barrel room, a space filled with the scent of aging wine—an aromatic highlight—and enjoy some tastings. This segment offers a chance to appreciate the subtle differences in wine styles, led by a knowledgeable guide who can answer even the most detailed questions about the wines and their production.
The Chef’s Menu Lunch at The Source
Next, it’s time for what many consider the highlight: a long lunch at The Source, Moorilla’s culinary hub. The menu is a carefully curated chef’s selection featuring local produce—think fresh seafood, local cheeses, and seasonal vegetables—paired beautifully with Moorilla’s flagship wines and wines from Domaine A, their sibling winery.
A sommelier is on hand to discuss the wine pairings, adding depth and context on how the wines complement the dishes. Reviewers praise this meal as a “fantastic surprise,” with one saying, “the great food and wine pairings made the experience truly memorable.” The lengthy meal, lasting about three hours, encourages a relaxed, savoring approach—perfect for those who want to truly enjoy high-quality cuisine without feeling rushed.
Art and Culture at Mona
After lunch, you get a guided tour of Mona’s galleries, which house some of Australia’s most provocative artworks. If you’re an art lover, this is a treat—you’ll have time to explore at your own pace, or join an optional guided visit.
One reviewer mentioned that “we ran out of time to do the museum full justice,” which highlights how expansive Mona can be. Still, even a few hours here reveal a thought-provoking collection, making Mona a standout cultural highlight.
The Return Journey and Gift
As the day winds down, you’ll reboard the ferry for the return trip, again enjoying the luxury lounge with drinks and canapés. The ferry ride offers a relaxed way to reflect on your day while soaking in the Hobart skyline.
Once back at Franklin Wharf, you leave with a take-home gift, a small token that captures the essence of your experience—be it wine, artwork, or other memorabilia—adding a personal touch to this well-rounded day.
The Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
The entire experience is structured to offer a comprehensive taste of Moorilla and Mona in about seven hours, with a well-paced sequence of activities.
- Start at 12 Franklin Wharf: The meeting point is central and convenient, with easy access and clear instructions.
- Ferry crossing (30 minutes): Expect a luxurious ride with drinks, giving you a taste of the scenic Derwent River.
- Guided Mona tour (7 hours): The core of the day—covering wine, art, and the museum—blended into a seamless experience.
- Wine tasting (30 minutes): Early in the day, to warm up your palate.
- Chef’s lunch (3 hours): The highlight meal, pairing local produce with flagship wines, designed for savoring and conversation.
- Second Mona tour (2 hours): More art and exhibits, giving deeper immersion.
- Ferry ride back (30 minutes): To unwind and enjoy the views once again.
This all takes place at 12 Franklin Wharf, with the ferry departing from the nearby Brooke Street Pier, a short walk or taxi ride from most central Hobart hotels.
What Makes This Tour Special
The private nature of the experience means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, tailored to your interests. The knowledgeable guides and hosts are praised for their engaging, informative style—making complex wine and art topics accessible and fun.
The combination of wine, art, and gourmet dining makes it a well-rounded cultural indulgence, ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The focus on local, sustainable produce paired with Tasmania’s finest wines offers great value for those who appreciate quality and authenticity.
The luxury ferry ride adds a layer of sophistication, avoiding the crowds typical of Mona visits. Plus, the take-home gift offers a tangible memory of your day, which many travelers find charming and thoughtful.
Price and Value
While the tour is priced as a premium experience, the inclusion of wine tastings, a multi-course meal, museum access, and private transportation makes it a worthwhile investment. For those who love wine and art, the combined value of all these components—especially with the convenience and expert guidance—far exceeds the price.
The flexible cancellation policy (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) and pay later option add to the appeal, making it a low-risk choice for planning.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for art enthusiasts, wine lovers, and gourmet food fans seeking a luxury, private outing. It suits travelers who prefer organized, educational, and indulgent days but still want to savor each moment.
It’s less ideal for families with children or pregnant women, given the alcohol focus and the lengthy schedule. Also, those with mobility challenges should check accessibility details, though the tour is described as wheelchair accessible.
Moorilla’s Big Day Out at Mona offers a thoughtfully curated journey into Tasmania’s vibrant wine, art, and culinary scenes. It balances luxury and authenticity, providing plenty of opportunities to learn, taste, and explore without feeling rushed.
Travelers who appreciate well-informed guides, excellent wine selection, and art that challenges perceptions will find this tour rewarding. The combination of private transport, gourmet lunch, museum access, and a take-home gift makes it a memorable, high-value experience—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in Tasmania’s finest offerings.
While it’s a full day, the thoughtful pacing ensures you won’t leave feeling exhausted—just inspired. It’s ideal for those seeking a premium, private introduction to Tasmania’s cultural and gastronomic highlights, all wrapped in a beautifully designed experience.
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided via a luxury ferry from Brooke Street Pier, with a private lounge and complimentary drinks.
What should I bring?
You’ll need a passport or ID card and a driver’s license for identification purposes. No other equipment is required.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, nor pregnant women due to the wine tastings and the nature of the experience.
What is included in the take-home gift?
The details aren’t specified, but it’s a thoughtful token that commemorates your day—possibly wine or artwork-related.
How long is the museum visit?
The guided tours in Mona total around 7 hours, with some extra time allocated for art exploration, though some reviews note that you might need more time to see everything.
How long is the wine tasting?
The wine tasting occurs after the winery tour and lasts about 30 minutes.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight that guides and hosts are engaging and well-informed, making complex topics accessible.
What wines are served?
Flagship wines from Moorilla and Domaine A are featured, paired expertly with the chef’s menu.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is described as wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to confirm specific needs when booking.
This tour blends Tasmania’s best cultural and gastronomic highlights into a polished, private experience that appeals to travelers seeking something special. It’s an elegant way to see Mona, taste top-tier wines, and enjoy exquisite local cuisine—all in one well-organized day.