Strahan: Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Tasmania’s wild side, this Gordon River cruise from Strahan offers a memorable day packed with scenery, stories, and a delicious buffet. It’s a well-rated, half-day adventure that combines the quiet beauty of the wilderness with intriguing history. While a bit on the longer side for some travelers’ schedules, the balance of on-water serenity and on-shore exploration makes it a standout choice.

We love the peaceful, electric-powered boat that glides silently through the river, allowing you to soak in the surroundings without engine noise. The expert guides and delicious buffet lunch elevate the experience, and the chance to step onto Sarah Island for a walk through its convict-era ruins adds a layer of history many tours skip. One thing to consider is Tasmania’s changeable weather—packing a raincoat and warm layers is smart. This cruise suits those who appreciate nature, history, and comfort all in one package.

Key Points

• Serene cruising on a quiet, electric vessel offers an unobstructed view of Tasmania’s wilderness.
• On-shore excursions like Heritage Landing walk and Sarah Island exploration provide authentic insights.
• The buffet lunch is a highlight, offering good value and tasty local fare.
• Guided commentary enriches the trip, blending natural beauty with historical storytelling.
• The upgraded Premier Upper Deck adds luxury, private viewing, and extra amenities.
• Suitable for wheelchair users on the main deck and infants, with some restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the River: A Calm Journey into Wilderness

The Gordon River cruise begins in the charming town of Strahan, a hub for wilderness trips. Check-in is straightforward, with the departure usually around 8:30 AM—arrive early to get your preferred seating and absorb the laid-back atmosphere. The boat itself, called the Spirit of the Wild, is praised for being comfortable, modern, and surprisingly quiet thanks to its hybrid electric motor. This makes the cruise more peaceful and environmentally friendly, a nod to Tasmania’s ecological values.

Once underway, the scenery immediately pulls you in. You’ll glide past the notorious Hells Gates, where the harbor meets the Southern Ocean, a dramatic opening to Macquarie Harbour. From the reviews, it’s clear that this part of the cruise is a highlight, with many travelers commenting on the spectacular views and informative commentary. One guest notes, “Very good. We particularly enjoyed going out to Hells Gate.” The boat’s smooth, silent glide allows you to observe the rugged landscape, dense forests, and possibly some local wildlife, all without engine noise disturbing the tranquility.

The Importance of the Electric Motor

The choice of electric propulsion isn’t just about comfort—it’s a thoughtful touch that enhances your experience. Many reviews mention the boat’s smooth sailing and the calming effect of the nearly silent ride. This is especially appreciated during the longer stretches across Macquarie Harbor where the scenery is vast and undisturbed.

Exploring Heritage Landing and the Rainforest

One of the essential parts of the tour is the stop at Heritage Landing, where you step onto elevated boardwalks winding through lush, temperate rainforest. Here, guides point out local flora like sassafras and myrtle, and you get a close look at Huon pine, one of Tasmania’s most treasured trees. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh forest air, and learn about the plants and animals that thrive there.

The reviews reflect the value of this walk, with many praising the guides for their knowledge and storytelling. “Very informative guides. Lovely new boat. Smooth sailing,” says one traveler, emphasizing both the comfort and educational aspect of the excursion. The rainforest walk offers a tangible connection to the untouched wilderness that earned the area UNESCO World Heritage status.

Sarah Island: A Gritty Glimpse into Tasmania’s Past

The tour’s most compelling historical component is the visit to Sarah Island, once known as Tasmania’s most feared penal settlement. The ruins are surprisingly intact, and a guided walk reveals the tough conditions faced by convicts and shipbuilders. Guides like Lyel and Shannon are repeatedly praised for their lively storytelling—one reviewer notes, “Her guide on Sarah Island (Lyel) was brilliant, funny, enthusiastic, and extremely informative.”

This stop is more than a sightseeing moment; it’s an opportunity to understand Tasmania’s convict past. The ruins evoke a sense of the harsh conditions, but also the resilience of those who endured them. Expect stories of punishment, escape attempts, and the island’s role in shipbuilding. Many reviews mention how the guide’s tales make the history come alive.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dining with a View: Buffet Lunch on Board

A major highlight reported by many is the buffet lunch, served mid-journey. The spread is often described as tasty and plentiful, offering local produce and a chance to relax with fellow travelers. You can purchase drinks from the onboard cash bar—many reviewers mention the good quality and reasonable prices.

The meal’s value is consistently praised, with some travelers calling it “great” or “delicious,” making the cruise feel like a good deal for what’s included. Those who upgrade to the Premier Upper Deck enjoy leather recliners, access to a private lounge, and an open bar, turning the experience into a more luxurious affair. For many, the combination of comfort, scenery, and good food makes this a worthwhile splurge.

Seating Options and Comfort

The cruise offers different seating tiers. The Main Deck, with its large windows, is suitable for most guests and offers a good view of the river and rainforest. The Premier Upper Deck is more exclusive, with leather recliners, a private lounge, and additional amenities like morning and afternoon teas and canapés. Many reviews note the comfort and excellent views from both options, but the upgrade provides a more relaxed, personalized experience.

On-Board Activities and Flexibility

While the guided commentary is a core part of the trip, travelers are encouraged to move around and enjoy open decks. Guests with mobility needs can access the main deck, although motor scooters are not allowed due to size restrictions. The tour runs for about 6 hours, and while weather can vary, travelers are advised to bring rain jackets and warm clothes—Tasmanian weather is famously unpredictable, but that’s part of the adventure.

The Return and Overall Experience

The cruise wraps up where it started in Strahan, typically around late afternoon or early evening. Many reviews highlight how well-organized the trip is, with punctual departures and friendly staff. The overall consensus is that it’s a well-rounded experience blending scenery, history, comfort, and good food.

Guests often comment on the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the value for money. A common theme in reviews is the serenity of the river and the informative storytelling, which keeps the experience engaging and educational, even for repeat visitors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet immersive taste of Tasmania’s wilderness and history. It suits those who value comfort but also want to connect with nature without strenuous activity. Families, seniors, and even the more mobility-challenged will find the on-deck accessibility reassuring. History buffs will appreciate the detailed stories of Sarah Island, while nature lovers will thrill at the rainforest walk and river vistas.

If you’re after a sightseeing experience that combines scenery, storytelling, and good food, this tour ticks all those boxes. The peaceful boat ride and the chance to explore Tasmania’s past make it a worthwhile addition to any west coast itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Gordon River cruise from Strahan offers a beautifully balanced mix of scenery, history, and comfort. The electric boat’s quiet operation allows for uninterrupted views, and the on-shore excursions deepen your understanding of the area’s natural and cultural significance. The buffet lunch provides good value and sustains you through the day’s exploration, while the guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxing, educational experience that doesn’t compromise on comfort. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, the journey through Tasmania’s wilderness is likely to leave a lasting impression. If you enjoy stories of resilience, stunning landscapes, and good local food, this cruise is well worth the investment.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, including on-shore excursions and stops, starting around 8:30 AM.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible on the main deck only. However, mobility scooters are not permitted due to size limitations.

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 advised.

Are infants allowed?
Yes, infants can join for free as long as they don’t occupy a seat.

What about food and drinks?
A buffet lunch is included, and drinks can be purchased from the onboard cash bar. Upgrading to the Premier deck includes access to an open bar and complimentary teas and canapés.

Can I sit anywhere on the boat?
Seating is ticketed and allocated, but guests are free to move around and enjoy the open decks for the best views.

What if the weather is bad?
Tasmanian weather can be variable, but the cruise is designed to operate in most conditions. It’s advisable to bring rain gear and warm clothing just in case.

Whether you’re soaking in the serenity of the Gordon River or stepping into history on Sarah Island, this cruise promises a well-rounded, memorable day that balances natural beauty with storytelling. It’s a fantastic way to see Tasmania’s wilderness with comfort and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby