Drover’s Sunset Cruise includes Smithy’s Outback Dinner and Show

If you’re heading to Longreach and looking for a way to unwind after a day of exploring, the Drover’s Sunset Cruise offers a laid-back, scenic experience that combines nature, culture, and good old-fashioned hospitality. This tour is particularly popular—booked more than five times last week alone—and boasts a perfect rating of 5.0 from hundreds of reviews.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the breathtaking views of the Thompson River at sunset are genuinely memorable. Second, the combination of storytelling, wildlife sightings, and a hearty outback-style dinner under the stars turns a simple boat ride into a full-fledged cultural event. That said, it’s not without its quirks—some guests found the meal portions and quality could be improved, and the group size maxes out at 48, which might matter if you prefer a more intimate setting.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, family-friendly outing that gets you a taste of the outback’s natural beauty and local stories. If you’re into scenic views, wildlife, and a genuine outback experience in a comfortable setting, then you’ll likely find this tour well worth your time.

Key Points

• Scenic Sunset Views: Capture stunning, 360-degree vistas over the Thompson River at sunset.
• Educational and Cultural Insights: Learn about the river’s wildlife and indigenous heritage from knowledgeable crew members.
• Delicious Outback Dinner: Enjoy a two-course camp-oven-style meal under the stars, paired with local stories and entertainment.
• Relaxed Pace: The tour lasts about four and a half hours, making it a leisurely evening activity.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with early call-outs to discuss dietary needs and mobility concerns.
• High Satisfaction: With a 5-star rating from over 660 reviews, it’s clearly a popular choice for visitors.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on the Cruise

The adventure begins with a warm welcome and a chance to settle onto the Longreach Explorer boat. You’ll mostly sit on the top deck, where the panoramic views are best. Imagine gliding smoothly along the river, surrounded by the outback’s tranquil landscape. The crew, often described as welcoming and knowledgeable, will give you insights into the river’s wildlife, the floodplain environment, and indigenous stories that add depth to the scenery.

Expect plenty of photo opportunities, especially at Sunset Bend—a favorite stop where the sky lights up with vibrant colors. Reviewers note that the sunset views are simply spectacular, transforming the entire experience into a memorable visual feast. You might also spot local wildlife like turtles and various bird species, adding a touch of nature to your evening.

As you relax, you can purchase a drink from the licensed bar—many guests enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine—and nibble on complimentary savory treats served on shared platters. The storytelling by the captain and crew adds a personal and informative layer, making the cruise more than just a boat ride.

The Dinner and Show at Smithy’s Outback

After roughly three hours on the water, the boat docks at Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show. Here’s where the evening takes a more folk-inspired turn. The camp-oven-style two-course dinner offers classic outback flavors—most reviews highlight the deliciously cooked main, often barramundi, though some mention portion sizes could be larger.

The dinner setting is under the stars, creating a cozy, authentic vibe. The entertainment is lively and engaging, often performed by talented local acts like Drew Blundell. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and quality of the show, making it a highlight of the night.

While nearly everyone agrees the overall experience is fantastic, a few reviewers felt the meal quality was inconsistent—some found the vegetables to be of lower quality or the portions small. However, most considered it good value, especially when factoring in the scenic cruise and live entertainment.

How the Tour Is Structured

The itinerary balances scenic beauty, storytelling, and dining in a way that feels relaxed but thoughtfully arranged:

• Start in Longreach, where you’re welcomed aboard the Longreach Explorer. The crew’s stories about the river and its wildlife set the tone.
• Cruise along the Thompson River, with multiple stops like Sunset Bend, where the sunset provides a perfect backdrop. The boat is spacious enough for comfort, with a maximum of 48 travelers—great for those who prefer a less crowded feel.
• Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks during the cruise, with opportunities to photograph the scenery and wildlife.
• As the sun sets, the boat docks, and guests are transported to Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show for the evening meal and entertainment.

The whole experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, a duration that’s just right for unwinding without feeling rushed or overly long.

The Value and Practicalities

Costing around $121 per person, the tour offers a good mix of scenery, culture, and entertainment. Considering the included two-course dinner, live show, and the scenic cruise, most reviews agree that it’s worth the price. The fact that it includes pickup (though not explicitly detailed in the data, many reviews mention it) adds to the convenience, making it easier to relax and enjoy without worrying about transportation logistics.

Since the experience is weather-dependent, it’s good to note that cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled, which is reassuring. The tour’s small group size (max 48) ensures that it doesn’t feel overly crowded, and the staff seem eager to accommodate dietary and mobility needs—just give them a heads-up.

Honest Thoughts and Considerations

While overwhelmingly positive, a few points are worth keeping in mind. The meal quality received mixed reviews; some found the vegetables to be of lower quality or the servings small. If food is your primary focus, you might consider that the dinner is hearty but not gourmet—more about the experience than five-star cuisine.

Plus, the size of the group might matter if you prefer a more intimate setting, but most find it perfectly comfortable. The timing is ideal for an early evening activity, but if you’re a night owl, be prepared for it to end around 9 pm.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sunset cruise is a great fit for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic evening with a dash of local culture. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, and storytelling, as well as anyone wanting to experience the outback’s hospitality in a comfortable setting. Families, couples, and groups of friends all find value here, especially since the overall atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the stunning sunset views and wildlife sightings. Foodies will enjoy the camp-oven dinner, and entertainment lovers will find the live show charming and lively.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, pickup options are offered as part of the experience, making it convenient to get to and from your accommodation.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience runs about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including the cruise, dinner, and entertainment.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, but there is a licensed bar onboard the boat where you can purchase cold drinks and snacks.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, but it’s best to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss needs, as requests cannot be taken on the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but since there’s a focus on relaxation and scenery, it’s more appealing to adults or older children who enjoy storytelling and outdoor dining.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 48 travelers, which helps maintain a relaxed, personable atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing suitable for the weather, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening as it can get cooler after sunset.

In The Sum Up

The Drover’s Sunset Cruise with Smithy’s Outback Dinner & Show offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, wildlife, indigenous stories, and authentic outback hospitality. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxing evening in Longreach without sacrificing cultural depth or scenic views. The combination of a gorgeous river sunset, engaging storytelling, and a hearty outdoor dinner makes it more than just a boat ride—it’s a memorable snapshot of outback life.

While the meal may not be haute cuisine, most guests find the overall experience to be a great value and genuinely enjoyable. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich outing that captures the spirit of the outback, this cruise is likely to tick all the boxes.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this experience offers a wonderful way to unwind after a day of exploring Longreach, leaving you with memories of stunning sunsets, wildlife encounters, and hearty outback stories.