Bruny Island GuideIndependent travel guide · Tasmania
Aerial view of Kettering and its marina

Plan

Hobart to Bruny Island

Three ways to make the trip, and how long each takes.

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Bruny Island lies just south of Hobart, but you need to reach the ferry terminal at Kettering first.

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Option 1: Drive yourself

Leg Approx. time
Hobart CBD → Kettering 35–45 min
Ferry Kettering → Roberts Point ~20 min (plus queue)
Roberts Point → The Neck ~25 min
The Neck → Cape Bruny Lighthouse ~45–60 min, partly gravel

Self-driving gives you the most flexibility. Hire cars from Hobart can go on the ferry, but check your rental terms for gravel roads.

Option 2: Guided day tour

Tours collect you in Hobart, handle the ferry and drive the gravel roads. It is the easiest choice if you are not driving or want to drink at tastings. Compare options on our tours compared page.

The Bruny Island ferry crossing the D'Entrecasteaux Channel
Crossing the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Photo: Andrew Chalmers / Public domain

Option 3: Cruise from Hobart

Wilderness cruise packages include coach transfers from Hobart to Adventure Bay. See cruises.

Timing a day trip

Leave Hobart by about 8am, take an early ferry, and plan to be back at Roberts Point in time for a late-afternoon sailing. See our one-day itinerary.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Bruny Island from Hobart?

Kettering, the ferry terminal, is about 35–45 minutes’ drive from Hobart; the ferry then takes about 20 minutes.

Can you do Bruny Island as a day trip from Hobart?

Yes. Start early and choose a few highlights; a guided tour simplifies the logistics.

Is there a bus from Hobart to Bruny Island?

There is no public transport on the island; tours with transfers are the practical alternative.