Strahan is a standout destination for boat tours and cruises in Tasmania, thanks to its dramatic scenery, historic sites, and the chance to see pristine wilderness. Whether you’re after a peaceful morning cruise or an unforgettable dinner experience, Strahan offers something for every traveler who loves being on the water. I personally enjoy the World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River because of its blend of history, nature, and local hospitality—plus, the chance to walk through ancient rainforests and learn about the area’s UNESCO status.
If you’re considering your options, this article covers seven of the best boat tours and cruises in Strahan. From family-owned adventures to exclusive small-group explorations, there’s a cruise suited for your interests and budget.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find a variety of cruises—from full-day expeditions to relaxing dinner cruises—that highlight Tasmania’s rugged beauty. Many tours include visits to Sarah Island, a notorious convict settlement, and explore the stunning Gordon River and Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Some offerings focus on wildlife, some on history, and others on culinary delights. For a comprehensive experience, check out the Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk, which balances nature, history, and a delicious meal.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each top-rated cruise to help you choose the best one for your trip.
1. Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch
Starting our list at number one is the Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch. This six-hour journey offers a very personal experience, operated by a local family-owned company that prides itself on friendly, relaxed service. The cruise takes you through the UNESCO-listed Gordon River, where the silence and untouched beauty are truly special.
The tour includes a guided exploration of Sarah Island, the notorious convict shipyard, which adds a fascinating historical layer. You’ll also walk on a rainforest boardwalk, wandering through Tasmania’s ancient forests. The highlight for many is the lunch, featuring fresh Tasmanian produce—think local cheeses, seafood, and bread—that’s served in a relaxed setting onboard.
What makes this cruise stand out is its small-group feel and the personal touch of a family-run operation. You’ll learn about the region from guides with genuine passion and enjoy the scenery from large windows on the boat. With a 4.8-star rating from over a thousand reviews, this trip is a reliable, high-quality choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quiet, intimate experience with top-notch scenery and a tasty local lunch.
2. Strahan: Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk
At number two, the Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk offers an award-winning blend of natural beauty and history in a six-hour journey. This trip is particularly appealing for those who value full-length windows that give unobstructed views of the wilderness, along with a chef-prepared buffet lunch.
What makes this tour unique is the electric motor technology on the boat, which ensures a peaceful ride without noisy engines disrupting the serenity. The on-shore excursions include visiting Sarah Island, where guides share captivating stories about Tasmania’s convict past, and a walk through the ancient rainforest. The focus on environmental sustainability and expert guiding makes this a top pick.
With a 4.8/5 rating from 315 reviews, travelers praise its professional crew, delicious food, and quiet, scenic cruising. It’s ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience that combines nature, history, and excellent service.
Bottom Line: A balanced, high-quality cruise that offers a scenic and historical deep dive, perfect for all ages.
3. Evening Dinner Cruise
Number three is the Evening Dinner Cruise, a six-hour experience that combines the beauty of the Gordon River with a gourmet meal onboard. This cruise stands out because it allows you to start your exploration early, with views of the rare Tasmanian trees and the Hells Gates, the narrow entrance from the ocean to Macquarie Harbour.
What sets this cruise apart is the dinner experience. You can choose from three different seat classes, each offering a chance to sample some of Tasmania’s best produce—think leatherwood honey, seafood, and local cheeses—while watching the sun set over the wilderness. The boat, a state-of-the-art quiet catamaran, ensures a smooth and peaceful ride.
The ship’s live commentary shares insights into Tasmania’s flora, fauna, and history, enhancing the experience. The highlight is the dinner on the water with spectacular views and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Reviews mention the outstanding service and the breath-taking scenery, making it ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Bottom Line: A memorable evening cruise combining scenic beauty with fine food, suited for couples and anyone wanting a relaxed, luxurious experience.
4. The Pillinger Explorer Exclusive Cruise
Small in size but big on exclusivity, The Pillinger Explorer offers a guided, small-group tour that gets you close to Tasmania’s wilderness. This five-hour adventure focuses on exploring the historic Pillinger township ruins and Bonnet Island, known for its lighthouse and seabird colonies.
The tour includes morning tea, a gourmet lunch featuring local Tasmanian ingredients, and visits to fish farms in Macquarie Harbour. The small-group setting means more personalized attention and the chance to ask detailed questions about the region’s history and ecology.
Though fewer reviews are available, those who have booked praise its intimate atmosphere and rich stories. The price reflects its exclusivity, making it a great option for travelers seeking a more personalized, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and those wanting a more exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Tasmania’s maritime and settlement history.
5. From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River
Number five features another dinner cruise, on the Gordon River, that emphasizes scenic views and Tasmanian cuisine. This six-hour journey offers a chef-prepared buffet dinner as you cruise through quiet, serene waters.
The boat, the Spirit of the Wild, is equipped with large windows that frame the wilderness, and guides share stories about Tasmania’s flora, fauna, and history. Highlights include visiting Sarah Island and experiencing the reflections of the Gordon River at sunset—an especially beautiful time of day for photography.
Perfect for those wanting a romantic or special occasion cruise, this experience combines scenery, storytelling, and a gourmet meal. The 4.5/5 reviews reflect its popularity among travelers seeking a memorable night on the water.
Bottom Line: An elegant, scenic cruise with dinner, suited for couples or those celebrating a special event.
6. Gordon River Cruise departing from Strahan
Number six on our list, the Gordon River Cruise departing from Strahan, is the most highly rated, with over 1,500 reviews praising its quality. Running about six hours, this cruise offers full-day exploration with electric motors ensuring a peaceful ride. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience.
The cruise includes a visit to Sarah Island, where guides detail the harsh convict life, and a buffet lunch featuring local Tasmanian foods. The large, floor-to-ceiling windows mean you don’t miss a thing, whether it’s the Hells Gates, the ancient rainforests, or the reflections on the river.
Reviews often mention the professional crew, comfortable boat, and informative guides. It’s a great choice for those wanting an all-in-one experience that balances scenery, history, and comfort.
Bottom Line: A top option for travelers who want a full, relaxed day exploring Tasmania’s wilderness with excellent facilities.
$105.09 per person
7. Morning World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan
Last but not least, the Morning World Heritage Cruise offers a six-hour tour that kicks off early to maximize your time in Tasmania’s UNESCO-listed areas. It features Hells Gates, Sarah Island, and a boardwalk tour through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
The catamaran provides comfort with full buffet lunches onboard, and the guided excursions give you a solid understanding of the region’s flora, fauna, and history. Travelers report the calm and peaceful ride, emphasizing the personalized stories from guides.
This tour is practical for travelers wanting an in-depth morning adventure and is ideal for those with limited time or who prefer to explore early in the day.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for morning explorers eager to see Tasmania’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort.
$105.09 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Strahan
When selecting your cruise, consider your budget, interests, and time availability. For a comprehensive day with history and scenery, the Gordon River Cruise is unbeatable. If you love culinary experiences, the dinner cruises with gourmet food offer memorable evenings. For those seeking a more intimate or exclusive outing, the Pillinger Explorer provides a taste of Tasmania’s hidden corners.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and seat class. Think about your energy level—if you prefer a relaxed pace, the full-day cruises are ideal, whereas the evening dinner cruise is perfect for a romantic night or special occasion.
Final Thoughts
Strahan’s boat tours and cruises offer a wide range of experiences—whether you’re interested in heritage, wilderness, wildlife, or culinary delights. The top-rated options like the Gordon River Cruise provide a classic, all-encompassing day, while smaller, specialized tours like the Pillinger Explorer cater to those wanting a deeper dive into Tasmania’s history.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable water adventures in one of Tasmania’s most stunning landscapes.