Strahan: Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk

If you’re dreaming of Tasmania’s wild side, this Gordon River cruise from Strahan is a solid choice. It promises a peaceful float through pristine wilderness, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the area’s fascinating past—plus a delicious buffet lunch. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from everything we’ve seen and read, it appears to be a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenery, history, and comfort.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines quiet, electric-powered cruising—which means you’ll glide through the river without disturbing the serenity—and the chance to explore onshore sites like Heritage Landing and Sarah Island. The second highlight is the delicious buffet lunch on board, a real treat that adds to the overall value. A potential consideration? The weather on Tasmania’s west coast can be unpredictable, so packing rain gear and warm layers is smart. This tour is perfect for those who love nature, history buffs, or anyone looking for a relaxing yet informative day out.

It’s a tour that suits travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, engaging storytelling, and comfortable amenities. Whether you’re visiting Tasmania for the first time or returning for a deeper dive into its wilderness, this experience offers a good balance of everything—just keep in mind the weather and be ready for some walking and exploring.

Key Points

• Peaceful cruising: The electric motors mean a quiet, non-intrusive way to enjoy the river scenery.
• Incredible scenery: Full-length windows offer stunning views of the Gordon River and reflections—great for photography or just soaking in the tranquil landscape.
• Rich history: The Sarah Island walk brings Tasmania’s penal past to life with engaging guides and fascinating tales.
• Delicious buffet lunch: The onboard meal is well-reviewed, making this a satisfying day out.
• Accessible experience: The tour is wheelchair accessible on the main deck, and infants can join free if they don’t occupy a seat.
• Weather preparedness: Tasmania’s west coast weather is variable—bring rain jackets and warm layers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off in Strahan, a charming coastal village in western Tasmania. Check-in is at 8:00 AM, with the boat boarding at 8:30 AM. The vessel, the Spirit of the Wild, is described as a new, comfortable boat with a hybrid electric engine—meaning a smoother, quieter ride that enhances the peaceful vibe. It docks behind the Gordon River Cruises terminal, making it straightforward to find.

You’ll want to arrive a little earlier if you’re driving, as all-day parking is available about 250 meters away (bring some coins for the pay-and-display). The tour lasts about six hours, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, especially considering the unpredictable weather on Tasmania’s west coast.

The Cruise: Gliding Through Serenity

Once aboard, you’ll notice that the boat is well-designed for comfort and sightseeing. Many reviews praise the comfortable seating and excellent views, especially from the premier upper deck, which offers leather recliners and a private lounge. Upgrading to this premium experience gets you access to an open bar, and there’s a cash bar onboard where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

The electric motors are a highlight—they contribute to a gentle, noise-free cruise that allows you to truly appreciate the silence and beauty of the wilderness. As you cruise out of Strahan, you’ll pass Hells Gates, where Macquarie Harbour meets the Southern Ocean—a dramatic entrance into the wilderness that can be quite impressive, especially if the weather cooperates.

Scenic Highlights and Stops

Heritage Landing

One of the first stops is at Heritage Landing, a well-loved part of the tour. Here, you’ll walk along elevated boardwalks through temperate rainforest filled with sassafras and myrtle. Most visitors find this walk both relaxing and educational, as guides share insights about the local flora and fauna. The standout tree is an ancient Huon pine, which can make you feel tiny in comparison.

The Gordon River and Reflections

The cruise continues along the Gordon River itself, where you’ll see the famous reflections—calm waters perfectly mirroring the surrounding forest and sky. The scenery is often described as serene and breathtaking, offering many opportunities for photos and quiet contemplation. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and majestic this part of Tasmania feels.

Sarah Island: A Window into the Past

The highlight for many is the visit to Sarah Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard. The tour here is led by guides who are often praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and sense of humor. You’ll get a walk through the ruins, with stories that are both fascinating and a little haunting.

Reviews rave about guides like Lyel and Shannon, who bring the history alive with stories that stick with you long after the tour ends. Sounds like Sarah Island is a must-see, especially if you’re interested in Australia’s penal history—though be prepared for some of the darker tales.

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The Buffet Lunch and Onboard Amenities

Lunch is served buffet-style on the boat, and the quality seems to impress most travelers. Several reviews mention the good, tasty food with plenty of options. The meal is a nice perk, especially since you’re out in the wilderness for most of the day.

The onboard bar offers drinks for purchase, and if you opt for the Premier Upper Deck, you get access to a complimentary open bar, along with morning and afternoon teas and canapes. This upgrade is especially appealing if you want a more luxurious, relaxed experience and don’t mind spending a bit more.

Group Size, Accessibility, and Comfort

The tour generally involves a manageable group size, with ticketed seating that you can move around freely. The main deck is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility considerations. Infants can join free if they won’t occupy a seat, which is a thoughtful touch.

Many reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the comfortable vessel, describing the trip as smooth even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The boat is described as new or well-maintained, adding to the overall comfort.

The Weather Factor

As with many outdoor experiences in Tasmania, weather can vary. Rain, wind, and cold are possibilities, but most reviews mention that the crew is well-prepared, and the scenery still shines through in less perfect conditions. Bringing rain jackets and warm layers is recommended—many travelers note that their experience was still fantastic despite weather hiccups.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for travelers who value scenic beauty, comfort, and storytelling. It’s good for people who want a relaxed day, with the option to enjoy both the views and some history. The guided walks and on-board commentary make it a rich experience for those curious about Tasmania’s wilderness and past.

It’s also a fantastic choice for those looking for a comfortable boat ride with excellent facilities and a delicious meal included. Families with children who are comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions might enjoy it, but it’s not specifically tailored for kids.

Final Thoughts

This Gordon River cruise offers a balanced day of natural beauty, history, and comfort. The quiet electric boat ensures a peaceful journey, and the onshore stops give a tangible sense of Tasmania’s unique environment and history. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, tasty buffet, and stunning scenery as the main reasons to choose this tour.

While weather can be unpredictable, most travelers find that the experience remains rewarding regardless. If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and educational day out in Tasmania, this cruise is worth considering.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop and the scenic cruise.

Is the boat suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the main deck is wheelchair accessible. However, the tour cannot accommodate mobility scooters due to size limitations.

Can infants join the tour?
Yes, infants are allowed free of charge if they do not occupy a seat.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and layers are recommended. Tasmania’s weather can change quickly, so rain jackets and warm layers are wise.

Is there a bar on board?
Yes, a cash bar is available on the main deck, and the Premier Upper Deck includes a complimentary open bar.

What are the seating options?
Seats are ticketed and allocated, with options on the main deck or upgraded to the upper deck for extra comfort and amenities.

What is the highlight of the tour?
Many say it’s the visit to Sarah Island and the peaceful cruising through Gordon River, with reflections and scenery that leave lasting impressions.

Is the buffet lunch good?
Most reviews agree the lunch is tasty, with a good variety of fresh, well-prepared food, adding value to the experience.

How is the weather?
The west coast weather can be variable—be prepared for rain or wind, but even in less-than-perfect conditions, the scenery remains stunning.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy a mix of scenery, history, comfort, and good food. It’s a well-rated experience that many travelers say is worth the price.

Whether you’re in Tasmania for a short visit or a longer stay, this cruise offers a peaceful yet intriguing window into the island’s wilderness and history. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a satisfying meal, it’s a day that many find both relaxing and enriching.

You can check availability for your dates here: