Tamar River Cruises

Tamar River Cruises operate from Home Point Cruise Terminal which is just a fifteen minute walk from the centre of Launceston. With the history of Launceston being intertwined with the history of the Tamar River, it makes sense to take the time for a cruise to get a feel for and insight into Launceston and the Tamar Valley.

Cruises take from fifty minutes to four hours with all of them entering in the very lower part of the Cataract Gorge, taking you along past the earlier settled suburb of Trevallyn with its large, old homes. See the area that was Launceston's original port and an important lifeline of the early days of settlement. On the longer cruises you head down the Tamar River past Tamar Island and its wetlands, with views to vineyards, farmland and riverside communities. The longest cruise will take you all the way down to the Batman Bridge. See what wildlife you can spot with waterbirds frequenting the protected waterway.

Tamar River Cruises operates two vessels. The 'Lady Launceston' runs all year round and takes you on the fifty minute Cataract Gorge Cruise. Due to her smaller size, she is able to venture a little further up the Cataract Gorge, where the electric drive is utilised so you can enjoy the stillness of the gorge. She was purpose-built for this cruise and is styled in the shape of an 1890's monohull. The 'Tamar Odyssey' is a catamaran with an upper and lower deck. Both vessels have an outer deck, but views are not hindered from inside. The Tamar Odyssey has a licensed bar with many local wines and beer for purchase. Lunch, beer and wine tasting are included on the four hour Batman Bridge Luncheon Cruise (operates 1st Sept - 31st May), whilst morning tea is included on the Morning Discovery Cruise (operates 1st Sept - 31st May).

An Evening Buffet Dinner Cruise (operates 1st Nov - 31st Mar) is also available subject to a minimum number of bookings.

The Lady Launceston and the Tamar Odyssey are staffed by experienced and knowledgeable locals, who at the same time as helping you feel relaxed and at ease will impart their large store of information and understanding of Launceston, its surrounds and its history.

The vessels are available for private functions with you able to choose the vessel most suited to your requirements. Various catering options are available.

A cruise with Tamar River Cruises is not only a good introduction to Launceston but the longer cruises give you a completely different perspective of the Tamar Valley than by road.

Free parking is available for ten vehicles right at the terminal, with paid parking very close by in the Home Point Parade carpark.