Morning World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania and looking for a way to combine stunning scenery with a touch of history, this cruise might just be your perfect day out. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of a rich, well-rounded experience. It’s designed for travelers who love natural landscapes, engaging stories, and a comfortable boat ride that includes good food.

One of the things we love about this cruise is how smoothly it balances educational moments with pure scenic enjoyment. The live commentary and guided tours on Sarah Island are especially praised for their captivating storytelling, which brings Tasmania’s convict history to life. Plus, the buffet lunch served on board gets high marks, making the day both informative and delicious. The only thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to be prepared for weather changes since the cruise goes ahead in most conditions, rain or shine.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and comfort. Families, couples, or solo travelers wanting an authentic taste of Tasmania’s wilderness and past will find it really rewarding. If you’re after a relaxed but insightful day that feels well organized and thoughtfully curated, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery & Natural Beauty: You’ll be cruising through ancient rainforests and past Hells Gates, the narrow entrance from the Southern Ocean, offering unforgettable views.
• Rich in History: The guided tour of Sarah Island reveals Tasmania’s convict past, with stories that make the history feel alive.
• Comfort & Convenience: The first-class catamaran offers excellent seating options, with indoor and outdoor spaces, plus a tasty buffet lunch.
• Informative & Engaging Guides: The crew provides lively commentary and insightful videos, making the journey both fun and educational.
• Value for Money: At around $111 per person, the six-hour tour includes a lot—scenery, tours, and a hearty meal—making it a worthwhile investment.
• Weather-Ready Experience: The cruise goes ahead in all weather conditions, so packing appropriate clothing is a smart move.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Departure from Strahan at 9 am

Your day begins at the meeting point in Strahan, where the friendly crew will check you in and set the tone for what promises to be a memorable journey. You’ll board the Harbour Master II, a modern, comfortable catamaran known for its spacious and well-maintained interior, with plenty of windows to take in the views.

Cruising through Hells Gates

Your first stop is the infamous Hells Gates, the narrow and often stormy entrance to Macquarie Harbour. This spot alone is a highlight—standing at the bow and watching the wild waters churn as you pass through gives an immediate sense of Tasmania’s rugged coastline. From here, the tour offers a chance to see aquaculture pens with thousands of farmed ocean trout and Atlantic salmon, adding a little insight into Tasmania’s seafood industry.

Sarah Island Guided Tour

After about an hour of cruising, you’ll disembark on Sarah Island for a guided tour. This is where the history gets real—once home to Tasmania’s most notorious penal settlement, the island’s reputation was built on harsh conditions and tough convicts. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling for making the past come alive, with some saying it’s a must-do when in Strahan. Expect to learn about the hardships faced by prisoners, the island’s rugged environment, and its role in Tasmania’s convict story.

Lunch on Board

Back on the boat, you’ll settle into the buffet lunch, which is consistently rated highly. Many reviewers comment on the quality and variety of the food, noting it’s a genuine highlight of the day. Whether you choose a seat on the upper deck with panoramic views or the main deck, you’ll enjoy a relaxing meal as the boat glides along the Gordon River.

Cruising the Gordon River & Rainforest Walks

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a slow cruise up the Gordon River, passing through ancient rainforests and awe-inspiring wilderness. The calm waters and lush greenery create a sense of serenity, perfect for unwinding and absorbing the natural beauty. During this part of the trip, there’s a boardwalk tour through Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, a UNESCO-listed site, with guides sharing stories about the flora and fauna of the region.

Return to Strahan

By late afternoon, the cruise winds down, returning to the starting point after roughly six hours of exploration, storytelling, and relaxation. Throughout the day, the crew provides live commentary, videos, and interesting facts, ensuring you’re both entertained and educated.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides & Captivating Commentary

The reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides and crew. Whether it’s the captain’s engaging commentary or the expert guide on Sarah Island, the storytelling is praised for its clarity, humor, and depth. Several reviewers mention how these insights made the historical sites more meaningful, transforming a sightseeing trip into a learning experience.

Breathtaking Scenery & Unique Locations

You’re not just cruising along water—you’re witnessing the dramatic entrance from the ocean at Hells Gates, the serene Gordon River, and the towering trees of the rainforest. The scenery is often described as “spectacular” and “breathtaking,” especially when viewed through the large windows or from the deck.

Good Value—A Well-Packed Day

At around $111, the tour offers a lot for the price, including the guided tours, buffet lunch, and scenic cruise. Several reviews mention that the quality of the food and the level of comfort on the boat make this a worthwhile spend, especially considering how much of Tasmania’s wilderness you get to experience in one day.

A Family-Friendly Experience

While children are welcome, note that they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s relaxed pace, engaging stories, and scenic stops make it suitable for families with kids who can appreciate a calm cruise and are interested in history and nature.

Practical Details & Tips

Duration: About six hours—plan your day accordingly, and dress comfortably for weather changes.
Meeting Point: 18 Esplanade, Strahan, with tickets available for collection 30 minutes prior to departure.
Start Time: 9 am daily (excluding Christmas Day and mid-July to mid-August).
Price: $111.17 per person—consider this an all-in experience covering scenic views, tours, and lunch.
Inclusions: Guided tours, live commentary, buffet lunch, rainforest walk, seating options.
Not Included: Drinks and snacks can be purchased onboard; there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off.
Weather: Cruises operate in most weather conditions, so wear rain gear if needed, and be prepared for rain or shine.

Review Highlights from Travelers

Many travelers rate this experience a solid 5 stars, praising the guides’ storytelling and the views. Comments like “A must-do when in Strahan” and “Breathtakingly beautiful” resonate across reviews. People love the combination of history, scenery, and comfort, with many mentioning how the knowledgeable crew and tasty lunch elevate the day.

A small number of reviewers pointed out that it would be nice to have drinks available for purchase or a little more time on Sarah Island, but overall, feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Is This Cruise Right for You?

If you’re after a scenic boat trip that’s easygoing but packed with interesting stories and stunning vistas, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s great for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxed, well-organized day out in Tasmania. The combination of captivating guides, gorgeous landscapes, and good food makes it a memorable experience.

However, if you’re expecting a high-energy adventure or a multi-day expedition, this might not be the right fit. Also, if you’re sensitive to weather or prefer indoor-only tours, be prepared for the possibility of being outdoors in rain or wind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a relaxed cruise suitable for families who enjoy scenic journeys and gentle walks.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring rain gear just in case. The weather can change quickly, especially near the coast and rainforests.

Are drinks available on board?
Drinks and snacks can be purchased during the cruise, but there are no free drinks included in the ticket price.

Does the cruise operate in bad weather?
Yes, the cruise runs in most weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately six hours, including stops and tours.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons, as the tour is popular and booked multiple times per day.

What about accessibility?
The tour involves some walking on Sarah Island and rainforest boardwalks, but the boat itself is comfortable with indoor and outdoor seating options.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Canceling less than 24 hours before means no refund.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this cruise offers a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, educational stops, and comfortable amenities. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of exploring Tasmania’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and hearty lunch combine to create a memorable experience that most travelers find well worth the price.

If you’re seeking a meaningful way to experience Tasmania’s wild landscapes and its intriguing past, this cruise should be at the top of your list. It’s a smooth, enjoyable trip that feels both special and authentic, especially if you’re interested in learning about the island’s history and enjoying some of the most beautiful wilderness in Australia.