Getting Here
If you're looking to get to pataway / Burnie from Melbourne, Devonport, Launceston, or Hobart, there are several convenient transportation options available.
For those flying, Burnie Wynyard Airport (BWT) is located just 20 kilometres west of the center of Burnie and offers daily one-hour flights to and from Melbourne, as well as other local destinations (King Island and Launceston)
If you prefer to travel by sea, the Spirit of Tasmania Ferry sails daily between Melbourne and Devonport, and from there, Burnie is just a 40-minute scenic drive (50 km) west along the coast.
For those who prefer not to drive within Tasmania, Kinetic Coaches (formerly Redline/MerseyLink) provide regular routes between Tasmania's major cities, including Hobart, Launceston, and Devonport, with connections to Burnie and Smithton. This is a great option for those who prefer to take in the scenic beauty of Tasmania along the way.
Visiting Burnie as part of a Cruise to Tasmania is also a popular option — perfect for spending a day exploring our waterfront, beaches, nature reserves, and vibrant local cafes.
Travel Options to Burnie
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Quick Convenience Option: Flight to Burnie + Taxi
Fly from Melbourne to Burnie/Wynyard airport with a short taxi ride into town.
Estimated cost: $180–$300
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Flexible Adventure Option: Flight to Launceston + Hire Car
Fly into Launceston airport and enjoy a scenic drive to Burnie with the freedom of a rental car.
Estimated cost: $200–$350 (first day car rental)
Compare Prices
Remember to include these costs in your comparison planning:
- airport parking / transfers
- plus getting around by taxi / transport / car rental hire
Travel Tips
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Book early – for the best prices and availability, Flights, ferry tickets, and car hire can sell out quickly, especially during school holidays and summer months.
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Weather check – Tasmanian weather can change quickly and affect travel plans! Always check the forecast and allow extra travel time if needed.
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Bus connections – Buses from Devonport to Burnie are reliable but can be limited on weekends – check schedules ahead of time.
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Taxis and Uber – Services are limited in Burnie, especially outside business hours. Book ahead to avoid long waits.
Travelling Times
Flight: 1 hour from Melbourne, Victoria to Burnie/Wynyard Airport.
Ferry: 9–11 hours from Geelong, Victoria to Devonport (via Spirit of Tasmania)
Drive: Burnie is an easy drive to/from these popular locations:
| Burnie/Wynyard Airport (BWT) |
20 minutes (20km) |
| Devonport |
40 minutes (50km) |
| Launceston |
1 hour 40 min (150km) |
| Hobart |
3 hrs 50min (325km) |
NW Region:
|
|
| Table Cape |
25 min |
| Stanley |
1 hour |
| Waratah |
1 hour |
| Cradle Mountain |
1 hour 30 min |
| Smithton (Marrawah/Woolnorth) |
1 hour 20 min |
| Strahan (Queenstown/West Coast) |
2 hours 30 min |
| Northern Region |
|
| Barnbougle (Golf) |
2 hours 30 min |
| Derby (MTB) |
2 hours 50 min |
| East Coast |
|
| St Helens (Bingalong/Bay of Fires) |
3 hours 20 min |
| Freycinet (Coles Bay/Wine Glass Bay) |
3 hours 30 min |
| Triabunna (Maria Island) |
3 hours 30 min |
| Southern Region |
|
| Tasman Peninsula (Port Arthur) |
4 hours 20 min |
| Kettering - Bruny Island |
5 hours 20 min |
| Southport (Cockle Creek) |
5 hours |