There are 2 way(s) to get from Melbourne to Hobart
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Practical tips
For the Melbourne to Hobart route, flying is often cheaper and significantly faster than the ferry. Check Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas for deals; booking in advance can secure fares as low as €45.
Remember, you cannot reach Tasmania by road. It’s always by ferry or plane. This applies to most other Australian islands like K'gari (Fraser Island) or Magnetic Island too, so plan accordingly.
If you opt for the Spirit of Tasmania, especially during peak seasons or holidays, book your ticket well in advance. Space can be limited, particularly if you're taking a vehicle onboard.
Budget airlines often have strict baggage rules. Double-check your allowance before flying to avoid unexpected fees, which can quickly erase any savings on the ticket price.
When comparing flights and ferries, factor in airport transfers and check-in times for flights, and the bus transfer from Devonport for the ferry. A 1-hour flight is still much faster than a 14-hour ferry + bus combo.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your trip from Melbourne to Hobart, Tasmania, can feel a bit tricky, but it's simpler than you think! Australia's vastness means you always need to weigh your options. For this route, the main question is whether you prefer a scenic journey by sea with a bus connection or a quick hop by air. Knowing the real door-to-door durations and costs upfront is key to making the best decision for your travel style and budget.
Your two primary options are flying directly or taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry combined with a bus. A flight will get you there in about an hour for around €45, making it the fastest and often cheapest choice. If you prefer a more adventurous route, the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Port Melbourne to Devonport takes roughly 11 hours, followed by a 3-hour bus transfer to Hobart, costing about €70 for the combined ticket.
Ultimately, when travelling to Tasmania, the choice between air and sea is crucial, as there’s no road link. For this journey, flying is almost always the smarter, more budget-friendly, and much faster option, especially if you're watching every dollar and time is precious. Don't fall into the trap of assuming a bus goes all the way – for islands and Tasmania, it's always ferry or plane.
Frequently asked questions — Melbourne → Hobart
Flying is typically the cheapest way, with one-way flights starting from around €45. Airlines like Jetstar and Virgin Australia frequently offer competitive fares. Always check current deals and book in advance for the best prices.
By plane, the flight itself is about 1 hour. Add airport transfers and check-in, and your door-to-door time is roughly 3-4 hours. The ferry option takes about 11 hours to Devonport, plus a 3-hour bus to Hobart, totaling around 14 hours.
For most travellers, flying is the better option due to its speed and often lower cost. It saves you significant travel time, allowing you more time to explore. The ferry is a good choice if you're travelling with a vehicle or prefer a longer, scenic sea journey.
Hobart is served by Hobart International Airport (HBA). You can reach the city center via the SkyBus Express service (approx. 30 minutes, ~€15) or by taxi/rideshare (20-25 minutes, ~€40-50).
No, you cannot use a bus pass to directly travel to Tasmania. There is no road connection. Your options are limited to either flying or taking the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Melbourne (Port Melbourne) to Devonport, then connecting by bus to Hobart.
✨ Why visit Hobart?
- ✓ Explore the historic Salamanca Place and its bustling market (Saturdays).
- ✓ Ascend Mount Wellington (kunanyi) for panoramic city and wilderness views.
- ✓ Visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) for an unconventional art experience.
- ✓ Discover local produce and artisan goods at the Farm Gate Market on Sundays.
- ✓ Take a scenic cruise along the Derwent River or to Bruny Island.
☀️ When to visit Hobart?
TEMPERATE OCEANIC CLIMATE
December to February — Enjoy warm, sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
What to do in Hobart?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Hobart?
For an independent francophone traveler, plan 3-5 days in Hobart. This allows you to explore the city's highlights like Salamanca Market, MONA, and Port Arthur (day trip). With more time, venture into the Tasman Peninsula or Mount Wellington for hiking.
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