Strahan: Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk

Southwest Tasmania, Tasmania



Join an award-winning wilderness cruise from Strahan complete with a chef-prepared buffet lunch. Expereince quiet cruising with electric motors, dedicated guides, and 2 exciting on-shore excursions.

This half-day Gordon River cruise departs from Strahan on Tasmania’s west coast, suitable for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Enjoy a freshly-prepared buffet lunch while cruising on the water
  • Explore the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area
  • Relax with views through full-length windows on the Upper Deck
  • Visit Sarah Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard
  • Experience reflections on the Gordon River

Description

Depart from Strahan and embark on a guided cruise with a whisper-quiet electric motor through Macquarie Harbor, Hells Gates, Heritage Landing, and Sarah Island. Learn the history of these sites through character-based interpretation featuring Captain James Kelly and Lady Jane Franklin.

Navigate the entrance to Macquarie Harbor via the narrow and treacherous Hells Gates. Visit fish farms on the harbor to discover the stories behind west coast salmon and trout farming, including a tasting of local produce.

Travel upriver to the Gordon River, taking in the pristine World Heritage-listed wilderness. At Heritage Landing, walk elevated boardwalks through temperate rainforest, observing native flora and fauna such as sassafras, myrtle, and ancient Huon pines.

Conclude the cruise with a visit to Sarah Island, exploring convict ruins and hearing true stories from its penal colony past.

A buffet lunch is served onboard, with drinks and snacks available from the cash bar on the Main Deck.

Seating options include Main Deck Central, Main Deck Window, or an upgraded Premier Upper Deck with premium leather recliners, full-length windows, and access to a private viewing deck and lounge area. Premier guests also enjoy a complimentary open bar, morning and afternoon tea, and canapés.

The cruise returns to Strahan after the tour.

Includes

  • Gordon River cruise
  • On-board guides and character-based interpretation
  • Chef-prepared buffet lunch
  • Two on-shore walking tours: Heritage Landing and Sarah Island
  • Restroom facilities on board
  • Tasmanian red, white, and sparkling wines, beer, juice, tea, and espresso coffee (Premier option only)
  • Premium leather recliners and full-length windows (Premier option only)
  • Access to private viewing deck and lounge area (Premier option only)
  • Canapés (Premier option only)

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Drinks and snacks available for purchase at the licensed galley (Main Deck only)

Important Information

  • Infants travel free if they do not occupy a seat
  • Wheelchair accessible on the main deck only; motor scooters are not permitted
  • The tour requires a minimum number of travelers; if cancelled, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund
  • Cash bar available on the main deck
  • Seating is ticketed and allocated, but guests may move freely and use open-air decks
  • Weather can be variable; bring a rain jacket and warm layers for the rainforest walk
  • Sturdy footwear is recommended
  • The nearest accommodation is Strahan Village, a 2-minute walk from the terminal
  • All-day 'Pay & Display' parking is available 250m from the terminal; bring approximately 10 AUD in coins

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 3 days before the cruise for a full refund.

For the best experience, book in advance and bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and a rain jacket. Morning departures offer calmer conditions and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cruise includes a guided tour of the Gordon River, a freshly-prepared buffet lunch, and a walk on Sarah Island, a former convict settlement.
The cruise departs from Strahan on Tasmania’s west coast.
The activity typically lasts about a half-day, combining cruising, lunch, and the island walk.
Yes, the cruise offers opportunities to see native Tasmanian wildlife and the natural environment within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area.
Yes, a freshly-prepared buffet lunch is served onboard while cruising on the Gordon River.
The walk includes exploring the remains of the former convict settlement and shipyard with informative guides sharing Tasmania’s penal history.
Yes, the cruise uses whisper-quiet electric motors to minimize environmental impact on the Tasmanian wilderness.
The cruise operates year-round; check the website for current availability and seasonal conditions.
Advance booking is recommended especially during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot.
Yes, the cruise and Sarah Island walk are family-friendly, suitable for children with an interest in nature and history.

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