Strahan Day Trip by Air from Hobart Including a Gordon River Cruise

Tasmania’s west coast is a jewel of untouched wilderness, and this Strahan Day Trip by Air from Hobart offers an unforgettable way to see it. For around $675 per person, you’ll enjoy a 50-minute scenic flight, a 5.5-hour Gordon River cruise, and a walk around historic Sarah Island. This tour, priced to include transportation, a gourmet buffet lunch, and expert commentary, is designed for travelers eager to see Tasmania from all angles—air, land, and sea.

Two things we especially appreciate about this experience are the breathtaking aerial views over mountains and river landscapes—which transform a sightseeing trip into a visual feast—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the history of Sarah Island come alive. Our second highlight is the delicious buffet lunch on the cruise, which offers a tasty break amidst the stunning scenery.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is non-refundable and relies on good weather—so if rain or cloud cover are forecasted, your plans could change or be canceled. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, history, and comfort, and who don’t mind a full day on the go. If you’re looking for a way to see Tasmania’s west coast with a bit of everything, this tour is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines air, sea, and land for a well-rounded view of Tasmania’s wilderness.
• Unmatched scenery: From mountain views to the Gordon River’s tranquility, every moment is picture-worthy.
• Expert guides and commentary: Guides enrich the experience with local history and insights.
• Delicious onboard lunch: A gourmet buffet that offers a welcome break amid spectacular scenery.
• Limited group size: A maximum of 14 travelers ensures a more personal experience.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations are possible if weather conditions aren’t suitable.

A Truly Multi-Sensory Journey Through Tasmania’s Wilderness

What sets this tour apart is the seamless blend of air, water, and land experiences. Starting at Hobart’s Par Avion, you’ll be greeted by a friendly pilot—often Luke, who has earned praise for his professionalism—and taken on a scenic 50-minute flight that offers sweeping views of Tasmania’s rugged mountains and lush forests. As you fly over the Central Plateau, lightly dusted with snow or shrouded in clouds, you’ll start to appreciate the scale and beauty of this wild landscape—something photos can’t quite capture.

Upon landing in Strahan, the adventure continues with a cruise through the Gordon River aboard the Harbour Master II, which lasts about 5.5 hours. The cruise is the heart of the tour, offering a calm, contemplative look at UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness. You’ll pass landmarks such as Hells Gates, the narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour, and drift past ancient rainforest that seems to stretch forever.

The cruise isn’t just about scenery; the onboard live commentary brings Tasmania’s natural and cultural history to life. Guides share stories of the river’s dark past—particularly the notorious Sarah Island, once a brutal penal settlement. You’ll have about 25 minutes to explore Sarah Island, where guides like Kiah add depth and personality to the tour, making history feel immediate and real.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Scenic Flight from Hobart to Strahan

Some travelers mention how impressive the window design is on the aircraft, with large windows that maximize the views. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, many find the flight over the mountain ranges and forests to be awe-inspiring. As one reviewer noted, “The flight from Cambridge airport was amazing with a good view of the mountain ranges which set a great context for the area around the Gordon River.”

Gordon River Cruise

The cruise is described as “relaxing,” “stunning,” and “delightful,” with many reviewers emphasizing the friendly staff and delicious food onboard. The buffet lunch is often highlighted as a pleasant surprise—a gourmet spread that provides energy for the afternoon’s exploration. The scenery is the star here, with floating past Hells Gates and seeing the pristine wilderness up close.

One reviewer described the experience as “an experience of awe,” praising the professional pilots and knowledgeable guides who make it special. The fact that many mention the scenic beauty, combined with the informative commentary, underscores how this cruise enriches your understanding of Tasmania’s natural environment.

Historic Sarah Island

The walk around Sarah Island is a highlight, especially thanks to the guides’ storytelling. As one reviewer put it, “The guided tour of Sarah Island was the best part of the whole experience. Kiah made the history come alive and added a humorous touch to the story.” If you’re interested in Tasmania’s darker past, this stop delivers both history and atmosphere, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Practical Aspects and Value

While the $675 price tag might seem high, it’s important to recognize what’s included: return flights, the cruise, guided tours, and lunch. This full-day experience offers a lot of value, especially considering the logistics of arranging transportation and multiple activities independently.

The small group limit of 14 travelers means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the professional pilots and guides are often praised for their friendliness and expertise. The timing—starting early at 7:00 am—means you’ll be making the most of daylight, especially for the aerial views.

Keep in mind, this tour is weather-dependent. If the skies are cloudy or rain is forecast, your experience might be affected, or the tour could be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling offered. That’s a small risk, but worth considering if you’re planning during an uncertain season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive look at Tasmania’s wilderness without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning scenery and learning about the environmental and historical significance of the area. History buffs will find the Sarah Island stop particularly engaging.

It’s also suited for those who value comfortable transportation and guides who share stories with warmth and knowledge. If you’re someone who enjoys spectacular photo opportunities, this tour delivers plenty of those, especially during the flight and the cruise.

Finally, this trip appeals to travelers willing to pay a premium for a full, seamless experience—from bird’s-eye views to tranquil rivers—and who don’t mind a full day on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Hobart in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the round-trip flight from Hobart to Strahan, the Gordon River cruise, live commentary onboard, and a gourmet buffet lunch.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, so families with older children or teenagers who can handle a full day might enjoy it.

What if the weather is bad?
This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 14 travelers, making for a more intimate experience with personalized attention.

Can I book last minute?
Most bookings are made about 49 days in advance on average, so last-minute availability might be limited, especially during peak times.

What should I wear?
Because you’ll be flying and on a boat, layers are recommended. Bring a rain jacket just in case, and wear comfortable walking shoes for the Sarah Island stop.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, but you should inform the provider of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, consider that weather can vary. Spring and early summer might offer clearer skies and better weather, but check local conditions before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Strahan Day Trip by Air from Hobart offers a well-rounded experience that combines the thrill of a scenic flight, the serenity of a river cruise, and a fascinating peek into Tasmania’s history. It’s a trip designed for those who want to see as much as possible in one day, with the comfort of guided commentary and gourmet food.

If you’re after breathtaking visuals and engaging stories, and don’t mind a full schedule, this adventure is sure to satisfy. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic, hands-on experiences and want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

For those with a curiosity about Tasmania’s wilderness and a love of history, the combination of stunning scenery and dark tales of Sarah Island makes this a truly memorable journey. Just keep an eye on the weather, and you’ll be rewarded with one of Tasmania’s most beautiful excursions.