Strahan: World Heritage Cruise on Gordon River with Lunch

Introduction: Experience the Wilderness and History of Tasmania’s Gordon River

When you think of Tasmania, you may picture rugged coastlines, pristine forests, and fascinating history. The Gordon River cruise with lunch, operated by a family-owned company, offers a perfect way to explore these highlights in one day. For around $102 per person, you get six hours of immersive scenery, engaging guides, and a taste of local produce. The tour departs from Strahan, a charming seaside town, and takes you deep into the World Heritage-listed Gordon River.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the guided tour of Sarah Island, where you’ll hear about Tasmania’s convict past, and the opportunity to walk through ancient rainforest at Heritage Landing. These stops highlight the contrasting stories of human resilience and untouched nature. Plus, the delicious, freshly prepared lunch of local Tasmanian ingredients makes the trip even more memorable.

One possible consideration is the weather, which can influence outdoor experiences like rainforest walks or estate tours. Dressing in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes is highly recommended.

This cruise suits those who enjoy a good mix of nature, history, and local culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply after a relaxing yet informative day, this tour offers genuine value and authentic experiences that make Tasmania special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Deep dives into history: Guided tours of Sarah Island reveal Tasmania’s convict past.
• Stunning natural scenery: Ancient rainforests and the Gordon River’s calm waters provide picture-perfect views.
• Local Tasmanian cuisine: The included lunch showcases the region’s smoked salmon, cheeses, and fresh salads.
• Expert guides and commentary: Engaging stories about ecology, geology, and human history enrich the experience.
• Flexible seating options: You can choose from different seating arrangements for comfort and view.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children (under 4 travel free), with activities and seating designed for all ages.

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Departure and the Journey to Hells Gates

The day begins at Strahan Wharf, where you’ll board a purpose-built catamaran. The journey out is part of the adventure — you’ll pass ocean trout and Atlantic salmon farms en route, offering a glimpse into Tasmania’s thriving aquaculture industry. As you leave the calm harbor, the vessel heads towards Hells Gates, the narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour, which is famous for its rough waters and dramatic scenery.

Traveling through Hells Gates is a highlight, with many reviewers noting the thrill of passing through such a narrow, powerful channel. The lighthouse at the entrance adds a touch of maritime history, as you listen to onboard commentary about the area’s natural challenges.

Sarah Island: Tasmania’s First Penal Settlement

The highlight for many is the guided tour of Sarah Island, where an experienced guide (sometimes Maggie, according to reviews) shares stories of convicts who endured harsh conditions in the 19th century. The tour, lasting about an hour, is lively and informative, giving you a vivid picture of the island’s dark past. Several reviews mention guides being “fantastic,” “animated,” and “very knowledgeable,” adding color and personality to the history lesson.

Walking the ruins and listening to tales of forced labor and survival, you’ll see the remnants of old buildings and possibly spot wildlife. The tour offers a stark contrast to the calm serenity of the surrounding river, creating a rich tapestry of human resilience against Tasmania’s wild landscape.

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Gliding into the Gordon River and Rainforest Exploration

After Sarah Island, the boat continues into the majestic Gordon River — a UNESCO World Heritage-listed environmental treasure. The silence of the river, broken only by the boat’s engines, makes for a peaceful ride through ancient rainforest. The commentary on board explains the ecology, geology, and human impact on this area, enriched with stories from the Grining family’s own experiences spanning more than a century of cruising.

One of the most memorable moments is disembarking at Heritage Landing for a 30-minute rainforest walk. The trail is relatively easy but offers an up-close look at lichen-covered trees and some of the oldest inhabitants in the forest. One of the standouts is the 2000-year-old Huon Pine, a tree that has survived millennia. Several reviews describe this as a quiet, almost spiritual experience, with the hushed atmosphere of the forest making it feel like stepping back in time.

Lunch: Savoring Tasmanian Local Produce

Back on the boat, a delicious lunch awaits. It’s a buffet-style meal, freshly prepared, with smoked salmon, cold meats, salads, Tasmanian cheeses, bread rolls, and a sweet. Multiple reviews highlight how tasty and plentiful the meal is, with some noting it exceeded expectations. The licensed bar offers drinks, and passengers can relax with their meal while enjoying river views through large windows.

The inclusion of local produce makes this lunch a genuine taste of Tasmania—no generic or mass-produced fare here. It’s an excellent way to nourish yourself after the morning’s explorations, and many say it adds significant value to the experience considering the cost.

Return Journey and the Huon Pine Sawmill

On the return leg, you’ll visit the Huon Pine Sawmill, where a demonstration reveals how this prized timber has been used for centuries. Several reviews are fascinated by the sawmill’s operation and the stories about the old Huon Pine—a symbol of the region’s natural wealth. This stop ties together the natural and human stories of Tasmania, illustrating how the landscape has shaped industry and culture.

The cruise concludes back at Strahan Wharf, with many travelers remarking on the overall professionalism and friendliness of the crew, as well as the well-managed schedule. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere and personable guides make the experience feel like a day spent with friends rather than a ‘tour’.

The Experience We Noticed from Reviews

Feedback from previous travelers consistently praises the knowledgeable guides, who are able to keep history lively and engaging without overwhelming. Several mention Maggie as a standout guide, describing her storytelling as “fantastic.” The scenery often earns perfect marks: “The scenery 10/10,” writes one guest, with the rainforest walk and river cruise providing photo-worthy moments.

Food quality also gets high praise, with many noting the home-made, fresh ingredients and generous portions. The upper deck seating is a favorite for its panoramic views and the opportunity to move around freely, making the experience more flexible and enjoyable.

A few reviewers mention that weather can affect the experience — rain or wind might make outdoor parts less comfortable. Dressing in layers and bringing a raincoat is advised, particularly during the wetter months.

Value for Money: Is it Worth the Price?

At $102 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience: scenic cruising, historical tours, rainforest walks, and a hearty meal. When you consider the expert guides, the included activities, and the pristine natural environments, many reviewers agree it’s a good deal. The ability to roam freely on the vessel, choose seating, and engage with knowledgeable staff enhances the value further.

The cruise’s popularity and consistently high reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to Tasmania’s wilderness and history.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families. The mix of storytelling, wild scenery, and gentle walks makes it suitable for a wide age range, especially with children under 4 traveling free if seated in the main deck center. If you appreciate authentic experiences that combine education with leisure, this cruise delivers.

It’s particularly appealing if you want to learn about Tasmania’s convict past, see ancient rainforest, and enjoy local cuisine—all in one accessible, well-organized package.

The Sum Up: A Memorable Day in Tasmania’s Wilderness

For those seeking a balanced, authentic, and scenic experience, this Gordon River cruise ticks many boxes. The combination of lively guides, stunning landscapes, and a hearty Tasmanian meal creates a day that’s both relaxing and enriching. It’s clear from reviews that many travelers leave with a sense of wonder and a new appreciation for Tasmania’s natural and human history.

If you want a family-friendly adventure that combines storytelling, scenery, and good food, this tour is a strong choice. It suits anyone eager to explore the river’s tranquil beauty while learning about its past and present. Although weather can vary, the overall experience is highly praised—and most find it well worth the time and money.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 6 hours, typically starting in the morning, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, walking, and enjoying the lunch.

What is included in the tour?
You get the cruise, live commentary, video stories, guided tour of Sarah Island, rainforest walk at Heritage Landing, visit to Hells Gates, a Huon Pine sawmill demonstration, and a freshly prepared lunch.

Are there different seating options?
Yes, you can choose from 4 seating options, including inside seats and upper deck seats with panoramic views and more freedom to move around.

Is the cruise family-friendly?
Absolutely. Children under 4 travel free if seated in the main deck center. The trip is gentle, with activities suited for all ages, and includes a kid-friendly activity sheet.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, cash for bar purchases, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, though upper deck stairs require some planning.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, there is a licensed bar where you can buy drinks and snacks, in addition to the included lunch.

What is the best time of year to go?
The cruise operates daily, except for Christmas Day and the mid-July to mid-August period when it’s closed. Weather is generally mild, but conditions can change, so check in advance.

What should I know about weather impacts?
Rain or wind may affect outdoor parts of the tour. Wear layered clothing and bring rain gear if needed to stay comfortable.

In sum, this Gordon River cruise offers a well-crafted blend of scenery, history, and local flavors, making it an ideal choice for a day trip in Tasmania. Whether you’re after learning about the island’s convict past, drifting through ancient forests, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, you won’t be disappointed.

You can check availability for your dates here: