Location & Transportation
Burnie offers a unique volunteer greet-and-meet program. For all passengers and crew arriving on cruise ships, a free shuttle bus service is available with friendly hosts to assist you from the port area to the Burnie Discovery Hub with Arts Centre and Museum. There is also a designated stop at the Burnie Waterfront.
Since Burnie Port is a busy working seaport, the shuttle buses are the most reliable way to exit and re-enter the dockside area. The Burnie Discovery Hub is conveniently located on Little Alexander Street, making it a perfect starting point to explore this charming coastal city.
Nearby Lodging
Downtown Burnie features a selection of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses within easy walking distance of the port and local attractions.
Nearest Airport
Burnie Airport is a small regional airport offering connections to larger hubs in Tasmania. Travelers can arrange local shuttle or taxi services to reach the cruise terminal or downtown area.
Sightseeing
Burnie has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1827 as Emu Bay. Today, you can explore its past and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Highlights include:
- Pioneer Village Museum: Discover Burnie’s history through engaging exhibits that tell the story of early settlers and the development of the city.
- Little Penguin Observation Centre: Situated at Parsonage Point along the foreshore boardwalk, visit around dusk (October to March) for a chance to see these charming creatures in action.
- Scenic Walking Trails: Take a leisurely stroll from Burnie’s central business district to the beachside boardwalk and onward along a 17-kilometer trail through Burnie Park. Enjoy the native rainforest and a dramatic waterfall along the way.
- Wildlife Encounters at Wings Wildlife Park: This wildlife park offers close-up views of Tasmanian Devils, wombats, and kangaroos, along with engaging commentary from the keepers.
- Wilfred Campbell Lookout: Located just above the port, this spot offers fantastic views of the ship and surrounding areas.
Tours & Excursions
For a guided way to experience Burnie, you can hop on the local attractions bus that starts at the Burnie Discovery Hub. This service lets you disembark at various stops along the route, giving you plenty of time to explore key sites before rejoining the bus.
Additional excursion highlights include:
- Local Attractions Bus: With stops along the way and a 50-minute wait between pick-ups, you have the flexibility to plan two or three mini-tours in one outing.
- Day Trips Beyond Burnie:
- Rhododendron Gardens: Flowering from late August to January, this picturesque garden showcases over 22,000 wild and hybrid rhododendrons set in a natural 11-hectare amphitheater. A free shuttle from town is often available on cruise ship days.
- Cradle Mountain & Guide Falls: Consider a day visit to the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain, with a stop at Guide Falls—a gentle cascade in summer that turns into a torrent in winter.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Burnie’s shopping district is centered in the CBD around West Beach, with additional centers in Upper Burnie, Wivenhoe, and Cooee. Here you can browse local boutiques, pick up Tasmanian crafts, and find souvenirs that reflect the unique coastal charm of the area.
Dining
The local dining scene in Burnie is vibrant and welcoming. Enjoy fresh seafood, quality coffee, and Tasmanian specialties at a range of seaside cafés and restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, Burnie offers plenty of options to satisfy your palate.
Culture & Local Events
- Local Currency & Payments: The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted, although it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially at smaller vendors.
- Opening Hours: Shops and local attractions generally stay open when a cruise ship is in port, so you can easily squeeze in some shopping or a meal.
- Cultural Highlights: Burnie is proud of its heritage. The Burnie Discovery Hub and local museums offer insights into the region’s history and art. Keep an eye out for seasonal events and festivals that celebrate the local culture and community spirit.
Safety & Awareness
- Burnie Port is an active working seaport, so follow shuttle bus instructions and be mindful of the busy surroundings.
- Secure your belongings, particularly when navigating crowded areas.
- Taxis are hard to come by, so plan your transportation ahead of time.