Can I visit Bruny Island with a rental car?
Set around two hours to the south of Hobart, Bruny Island is a terrific destination made better with a rental car.
Read on to find out how to get there in your hire car.
A highlight for foodies, and a must-see for any avid hikers, there are no shortage of reasons why Bruny Island is fast becoming one of Tasmania’s premier holiday destination. Located just a two hour drive to the south of Hobart, while you’re exploring Bruny Island be sure to try the locally-produced cheese and wine, and follow the coastline to try and spot local wildlife including the island’s famous fairy penguins.
Getting to Bruny Island with a rental car
If you frequently rent cars, you might know that taking your vehicle on a ferry is often not permitted. However, when it comes to Bruny Island there are some exceptions, as some rental car providers will allow their vehicles on the ferry. It is a good idea to check with the provider depot before you make your booking, and you will need to let the counter staff know when you pick up your rental car that you plan to visit Bruny Island.
On the Tasmanian mainland, the ferry to Bruny Island runs from the town of Kettering about a half hour drive to the south of Hobart. SeaLink operate a vehicle ferry between Ketteling and Bruny Island, with the trip taking just 15 minutes, and departures throughout the day, seven days a week. Both the city of Hobart and Hobart Airport are convenient locations to pick up your rental car from.
Getting around Bruny Island
Many of the roads on Bruny Island are gravel, and as rental car providers don’t allow their vehicles to be taken on unsealed roads you won’t be able to access some of the more remote, northern parts of the island. To start exploring, follow the Bruny Island Main Road from the ferry terminal from where it will take about 40 minutes to drive from Robert’s Point to Lunawanna. The best time to visit Truganini Lookout and the Penguin Rookery is between September and February.
Top attractions on Bruny Island
The Neck
This narrow stretch of land is one of the most photogenic spots on Bruny Island. Take a quick hike up the staircase to Truganini Lookout to be rewarded with a tremendous view of the surrounds.
Bruny Island Wine
Try some of the delicious, locally-produced wines on Bruny Island. Bruny Island Premium Wines is a small vineyard located in Lunawanna, and has become particularly popular among visitors.
Wildlife
Bruny Island is home to plenty of beautiful wildlife. Spot fur seals, dolphins and whales off the coast, and don’t miss the local penguins returning to their burrows every evening.
