Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania and want to experience some of the island’s most breathtaking wilderness, this Gordon River cruise is a solid choice. It offers a good mix of history, nature, and comfort — all wrapped into a six-hour journey that many travelers seem to find memorable. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s the right adventure for your Tasmanian itinerary.

What immediately attracts us to this cruise is the focus on local, family-owned service, which often translates to a warmer, more personal experience. Plus, the fact that the cruise includes a guided tour of Sarah Island and a walk through UNESCO-listed rainforest adds educational flavor to the scenic beauty. But, of course, it’s worth mentioning that a six-hour trip isn’t a casual outing — so if you’re after a quick look or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider alternative options.

This cruise seems perfect for those who enjoy nature, history, and good food in one relaxing package. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate detailed commentary and want a day packed with diverse experiences without the hassle of planning every stop.

Key Points

• Scenic natural beauty with views of ancient rainforests and the Gordon River
• Educational content with guided tours of Sarah Island and Huon Pine Sawmill
• Delicious local lunch featuring Tasmanian produce
• Personalized service from a family-operated company
• Comfortable boat with excellent seating options and onboard amenities
• Flexible options for seating and accessibility, including wheelchair-friendly arrangements

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Highlights

When considering this cruise, you’ll want to understand how each element contributes to the overall experience. It’s not just about cruising but about seeing key sights and learning their stories.

Starting from Strahan Wharf

The adventure kicks off at the 18 Esplanade, where you’ll meet your crew. The purpose-built catamaran departs early in the day and heads toward Hells Gates — the narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour — promising scenic views of the ocean trout and Atlantic salmon farms en route. The boat itself is noted for being clean and spacious, with options for outside seating to better enjoy the views.

Hells Gates and Ocean Views

Traveling through Hells Gates is a highlight for many. The name might sound dramatic, but the narrow channel offers a fascinating glimpse into the harsh conditions faced by early sailors and the power of the sea. Some reviews mention rough conditions here — which is normal, given the location — but the experience is often described as thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Sarah Island: A Peek into Tasmania’s Past

The tour’s most unique feature is the guided walk on Sarah Island, once Tasmania’s first penal settlement. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, take you through the remnants of the harsh convict life — and some reviews highlight their storytelling skills as entertaining and informative.

One reviewer shared that their guide was very animated and kept the group interested, making the history come alive. Another noted that despite the weather being cold and wet, the guides were still fantastic, which speaks to the resilience and dedication of the crew.

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Gordon River and UNESCO Rainforest

After the island visit, you’ll cruise further into the majestic Gordon River, surrounded by ancient rainforest that’s so old it’s been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenery is often described as stunning, peaceful, and a perfect escape from modern life.

Disembarking at Heritage Landing offers a chance to walk through the quiet, lichen-covered rainforest. The highlight for many is observing a 2000-year-old Huon Pine, one of the oldest inhabitants of the forest. The 40-minute walk is short but impactful, giving you a chance to breathe in the serenity and appreciate Tasmania’s natural treasures.

Lunch: A Taste of Tasmania

A major plus for this tour is the fresh, locally sourced lunch. Many reviews describe the meal as superb and note that it features Tasmanian smoked salmon, cheeses, salads, and cold meats. The included sweet caps off the meal nicely, and there’s a licensed bar on board for drinks and snacks, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery with a beverage of your choice.

The lunch isn’t just a filler — it’s a thoughtfully prepared meal that adds value, especially considering that some reviewers praise the quality and freshness of the food. For many, this is a highlight that makes the entire day feel even more special.

Huon Pine Sawmill and Final Stops

Returning to Strahan, you’ll visit the Morrisons Huon Pine Sawmill, which provides insight into the importance of Huon Pine in Tasmania’s history and economy. Many visitors appreciate seeing the sawmill in operation and learning about how this ancient wood is harvested and preserved.

The entire experience is rounded out with more scenic cruising and commentary on the area’s ecology, geology, and human history. The guides, many of whom are local family members, are often praised for their friendly, engaging, and informative style.

Practical Insights and What to Expect

Duration and Comfort

With a six-hour schedule, this cruise is quite comprehensive but still relaxed. Most travelers say the time flies by, thanks to the interesting stops, good food, and engaging guides. The boat has seating options to suit different preferences, including outside vantage points, which are highly recommended for the best views.

Accessibility and Family Friendliness

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, although access to the upper deck requires stairs. Children under 4 travel free, but seating is limited to the Main Deck Centre, so families with very young kids might want to confirm details beforehand.

What To Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must for walking at Heritage Landing and Sarah Island. A camera is essential for capturing the scenery and wildlife, and some cash is handy for drinks or additional snacks on board.

Weather Considerations

Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. While most days are fine, some reviews mention rain or cold, so dress according to the weather. The boat’s sheltered areas help, but layers are advisable.

Pricing and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, many reviewers agree it offers good value for money. The combination of scenery, history, food, and personal service makes it a well-rounded experience. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and the chance to sit in a comfortable vessel make it feel like a worthwhile investment.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Many reviews praise the friendly staff, excellent commentary, and delicious food. One traveler even noted that the lunch was better than expected, describing it as a “superb” offering of local produce.

Two particular points stand out: the guides’ storytelling skills and the scenery. Several reviewers mention that the guides are very animated, engaging, and helpful, making the history and ecology come alive.

Some minor drawbacks include weather-related discomfort and the roughness at Hells Gates — which is unavoidable but part of the adventure. Also, the lunch was generally praised but mentioned by one person as not as fresh as it could be; overall, however, most found the meal to be excellent.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic, and educational day out of town. It’s ideal for those who appreciate nature, history, and local food, and don’t mind a longer outing. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with adults or older children interested in stories of the past and the beauty of untouched wilderness.

If you’re after a quick trip or have very young children, you might find the six-hour duration a bit long, or prefer a more casual, less structured experience.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, but access to the upper deck involves stairs. It’s best to check specific needs with the provider before booking.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring comfortable shoes, cash for drinks/snacks, and a camera. Dress according to the weather, as Tasmania’s conditions can change quickly.

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately six hours, including stops and tours at Sarah Island, Heritage Landing, and the sawmill.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a freshly prepared, local Tasmanian lunch with smoked salmon, cheeses, salads, and a sweet is included in the ticket price.

Can children join the cruise?
Children under 4 travel free, but seating is limited to the Main Deck Centre. The tour is suitable for families with older children interested in history and nature.

What are the seating options?
You can choose from four seating options when booking, including outside vantage points, which are highly recommended for scenery.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable. The cruise generally operates daily except on Christmas and mid-winter. Check with the operator if you’re concerned about weather conditions.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially for families with children interested in learning about Tasmania’s history and ecology. Just be aware of the length and weather considerations.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this Gordon River cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Tasmania’s natural beauty and history, all delivered by friendly locals in a comfortable setting. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and delicious local food makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers seeking a meaningful day out. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy learning, scenic cruising, and want a relaxed but informative experience.

If you’re in the Strahan area and want to see the Gordon River with knowledgeable guides and a touch of local charm, this cruise should definitely be on your list. Just pack appropriately and get ready for a day of discovery and tranquility in one of Tasmania’s most iconic landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: