Bruny Island’s attractions are spread across roughly 50 km of island, the ferry leaves from Kettering (not Hobart), and there is no bus service once you arrive. For most visitors without a car, a guided day tour from Hobart is the practical answer.
Best option: a guided day from Hobart
This small-group tour picks up from Hobart CBD hotels and includes the ferry crossing, with walks, lookouts, beaches and wildlife spotting through the day.
Other ways to visit without a car
The wilderness cruise with transfers
The Bruny Island wilderness cruise has a full-day version that includes coach transport from Hobart, the ferry and a 3-hour cruise from Adventure Bay. It is a good choice if wildlife and coastline matter more than food stops. See our cruise guide.
Gourmet day tours
Food-focused tours from Hobart include lunch and multiple tastings, with the transport and ferry handled for you. See Bruny Island tours compared.
Walk on, then stay
If you have booked accommodation that offers a ferry pickup, you can travel to Kettering, walk onto the ferry and be collected at Roberts Point. Ask your host in advance — not all can do this. Getting to Kettering from Hobart without a car may mean a taxi, rideshare or limited regional bus, so check current options.
Cycling
Bruny is a rewarding but demanding ride. The main road is sealed for much of its length, but side roads to the lighthouse and Cloudy Bay are gravel, and ferry arrivals bring bursts of traffic. Carry water, food, a puncture kit and lights.
Which option is right for you?
| Option | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Guided day tour | First visit, short stay | Fixed itinerary |
| Cruise with transfers | Wildlife and coast | Less time for food |
| Walk-on + accommodation pickup | Overnight stays | Must be pre-arranged |
| Cycling | Fit riders, two or more days | Gravel, distances, weather |
Tips
- Book tours ahead in summer and school holidays.
- Dress for wind and rain — tours visit exposed lookouts.
- Bring a card for tastings not included in your tour.
- Staying in Hobart? See our day trip from Hobart guide for timings.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a bus on Bruny Island?
No. There is no regular public bus on the island. Visitors without a car usually join a tour from Hobart.
Can you walk onto the Bruny Island ferry?
Foot passengers can travel on the ferry, but the main attractions are spread across the island, so walking on is only practical if you have accommodation or a pickup arranged.
Can you cycle on Bruny Island?
Experienced cyclists do ride the island, but distances are long, there are gravel sections and traffic can be busy around ferry times.
