A Complete Guide to the Morning World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan
If you’re heading to Tasmania and craving a journey that combines natural beauty with a touch of history, this 6-hour cruise from Strahan is hard to beat. For about $105 per person, you’ll spend your morning on a comfortable catamaran exploring the Gordon River, cruising through Hells Gates, visiting the notorious Sarah Island, and walking among the ancient trees of the UNESCO-listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.
What we really love about this tour is its seamless blend of scenic beauty and storytelling. The guides are not just onboard narrators; they become your personal storytellers, making history and nature come alive with engaging commentary. Plus, the buffet lunch served on the boat is genuinely generous and flavorful, adding to the value of the experience. Another highlight is the Sarah Island tour, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s penal past.
On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that drinks and snacks aren’t available for purchase on the boat, so if you’re a thirsty traveler, bringing your own might be wise. Also, this tour runs in most weather conditions but dress appropriately for potential rain or wind—Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable.
This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenery, and comfort. It’s ideal for those who want a well-rounded, informative day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, especially since many reviews highlight how well-organized and engaging the guides are.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery: You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Gordon River and ancient rainforests, with commentary to help you understand their significance.
- Historic Insight: The Sarah Island tour provides a vivid picture of Tasmania’s penal past with detailed storytelling.
- Comfort & Value: The boat’s comfortable seating and generous buffet lunch make for a relaxing day.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable narrators, including the captain and guides, enhance the experience with lively, informative commentary.
- Beautiful Walks: The rainforest boardwalk offers a chance to stretch your legs and connect with the wilderness.
- All Weather Operation: The cruise runs regardless of weather, so dress appropriately to enjoy your day fully.
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An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Starting Off at Strahan: The Departure Point
The tour begins promptly at 9 am from 18 Esplanade, Strahan. The meeting process is straightforward: your tickets are held at the booking office next to the vessel, and boarding occurs about 30 minutes prior to departure. The ship used is a first-class catamaran, known for its stability and comfort, which is essential when you’re spending a full six hours on the water.
The cruise’s first highlight is passing through Hells Gates, the narrow, often turbulent entrance from the Southern Ocean into Macquarie Harbour. This part of the journey automatically sets the tone—expect dramatic scenery and a sense of adventure as the boat navigates this famously challenging entrance.
Hells Gates and the Harbour
Once through, you’ll cruise along the harbour, passing aquaculture pens filled with thousands of ocean trout and Atlantic salmon. This isn’t simply a sightseeing trip—your guides will explain Tasmania’s thriving aquaculture industry, adding a practical layer to the scenic views.
Sarah Island: The Penal Settlement
The first major stop is Sarah Island, which the guides describe as one of Tasmania’s most notorious penal settlements. The one-hour guided tour here is a real highlight. From reviews, we learn that guide Kaiah makes the stories come alive with her acting and storytelling skills, helping visitors grasp the harsh realities faced by convicts. We loved the way the guide painted a vivid picture of the harsh conditions and rugged landscape, which made the history much more tangible.
Some reviews mention that the tour is quite comprehensive, with a few noting it can feel a little rushed—so if you’re a history buff, pay close attention to the stories, because they’re packed with details.
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Lunch and Relaxation on the Water
Back on the boat, a buffet lunch is served, and many agree it exceeds expectations. The variety and freshness of the food, coupled with the scenic backdrop, make this part of the experience especially enjoyable. Guests appreciated the good selection of drinks and the comfortable upper deck seating, which allows everyone to enjoy the views while eating.
Gliding into the Rainforest
After lunch, the cruise continues along the Gordon River, one of Tasmania’s most pristine waterways. The slow, gentle glide into the rainforest offers a moment of calm and serenity. The boat features large windows and outdoor decks, so you can choose to sit inside with a view or step outside for fresh air.
The rainforest walk on a boardwalk in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is an excellent chance to stretch your legs and get a closer look at the ancient trees. The guides point out various flora and fauna, making this walk both educational and peaceful.
What the Reviews Tell Us
Many reviewers highlight the expert guides and captains, who make the trip engaging and informative. One reviewer, Michael D., notes, “The captain’s commentary is captivating, and the tour guides are equally as good,” emphasizing the level of storytelling skill involved.
Others appreciate the comfortable boat and good value. Doreen H. mentions that the experience is “full of value,” with very professional crew and a “great selection of drinks.” The scenery also gets high praise—reviewers describe the views as “spectacular” and “incredible,” especially Hells Gates and the rainforests.
Food also garners positive comments, with many calling the buffet lunch “amazing” and “very tasty.” However, a few note disappointment that drinks couldn’t be purchased onboard, so bringing your own might be worth considering.
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Reviews
One reviewer encapsulates the experience well: “This is a must-do when in Strahan. We learned so much about this beautiful part of our country,” which underscores the combination of natural beauty and educational value that makes this tour special.
A Few Cautions
While most find the experience smooth and enjoyable, some mention that the Sarah Island tour can feel rushed, especially if the guide is under time constraints. Also, since drinks aren’t available for purchase, travelers needing hydration or caffeine should plan ahead.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a comfortable, well-organized day out. The combination of storytelling, scenic vistas, and a delicious lunch makes it appealing to families, couples, and curious travelers alike.
It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in Tasmania’s penal past, love rainforest walks, or simply want to see some of the most pristine wilderness Tasmania has to offer, all from the comfort of a cruise vessel.
The Sum Up
This Morning World Heritage Cruise from Strahan offers a well-balanced experience: stunning scenery, compelling history, friendly guides, and a satisfying meal. It’s particularly good value considering the length and scope of the tour, providing plenty of opportunities to learn, relax, and enjoy Tasmania’s wild beauty.
Travelers who value expert narration, scenic boat rides, and authentic rainforest walks will find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Tasmania’s natural and historic treasures without feeling hurried or overwhelmed.
If you’re after a day that combines beautiful landscapes, engaging stories, and comfort, this cruise is a splendid choice. Just remember to dress appropriately, bring your own drinks if needed, and prepare for a day of discovery that will leave you with lasting memories of Tasmania’s wild side.
FAQs
Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, this tour starts at the specified meeting point in Strahan, and you’ll need to make your own arrangements to arrive there.
What time does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs promptly at 9 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to collect your tickets and settle in.
Are drinks and snacks available onboard?
No, drinks and snacks are not sold during the cruise, so it’s advisable to bring your own if you’ll need refreshments.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s length and content make it suitable for families.
Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or wind.
How long is the Sarah Island tour?
The guided tour of Sarah Island lasts about one hour, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing if rain is forecast, as the weather on the water can change quickly.
Can I purchase souvenirs or additional items during the tour?
No, there are no options for buying souvenirs or additional items during the cruise, so plan accordingly.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply after a scenic and relaxing day, the Morning World Heritage Cruise offers a memorable taste of Tasmania’s most remarkable sights and stories.