Travelers seeking a memorable blend of Tasmania’s wilderness, history, and fine dining will find this evening cruise on the Gordon River an inviting choice. With a good reputation and a consistent positive rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 11 reviews, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of Australia’s most pristine natural areas.
What we like most is how this tour combines scenic cruising with immersive on-shore adventures. The gourmet buffet dinner served onboard is a highlight, offering a satisfying way to enjoy the landscape without missing the views. Plus, the guides’ storytelling skills bring to life the region’s history and ecology, making the journey both entertaining and educational.
A possible drawback might be the limited accessibility for some travelers, since the restrooms are down a flight of stairs and wheelchair access is only on the main deck.
Also, some reviews mention the slower pace and the fact that wildlife sightings on the river are rare—likely due to the river’s depth and shoreline reeds. Still, for those who love learning about local flora and absorbing serene scenery, this cruise ticks many boxes.
This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts, history lovers, and foodies who enjoy a relaxed, guided tour with a bit of everything—scenery, stories, and a delicious meal. If you’re looking for a well-organized, intimate adventure into Tasmania’s wilderness without roughing it, this cruise is worth considering.
Key Points
1 / 6
2 / 6
3 / 6
4 / 6
5 / 6
6 / 6- Stunning scenery of the World Heritage-listed Gordon River and surrounding wilderness.
- Delicious buffet dinner served onboard, with options to purchase drinks.
- Engaging guides who tell stories about local history, flora, fauna, and the region’s past.
- On-shore walk at Heritage Landing to explore temperate rainforest and see ancient Huon pine.
- Visit to Sarah Island, the ruins of a convict settlement with compelling stories.
- Optional premium upper deck seating with access to a private lounge, open bar, and canapés.
- Quiet electric boat engines for a peaceful ride with less noise pollution.
- Limited wheelchair access and restrooms down a flight of stairs—something to consider for travelers with mobility needs.
- Flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled up to 3 days in advance.
The Itinerary in Detail
The cruise begins in Strahan, a charming West Coast town, where you’ll check in at the Gordon River Cruises terminal by 3:00 PM for a 3:30 PM departure. The boat itself, called the Spirit of the Wild, is a modern vessel designed for comfort and quiet operation, with full-length windows offering panoramic views.
One of the first highlights is crossing Hells Gates, the narrow and tumultuous entry to Macquarie Harbour where the Southern Ocean meets the harbor. Many travelers find this a dramatic introduction to the area’s wild nature—the jagged entrance is a striking sight. Though some reviews mention Hells Gate as less interesting, it’s still a significant geographical feature and a must-see in the region.
Next, the cruise heads across Macquarie Harbour towards the Gordon River, passing salmon farms that tell a different side of Tasmania’s economy. Here, guides provide insights about salmon and trout farming—a story that adds a contemporary layer to the region’s natural beauty.
Once on the Gordon River, the boat slows down to allow passengers to soak in the incredible scenery. The reflections on the calm waters are often described as mesmerizing, especially with the lush rainforest surrounding you. The full-length windows on the boat ensure that everyone gets a good view, whether seated on the main deck or in the more luxurious upper deck seating.
A key stop is Heritage Landing, where a short walk along elevated boardwalks takes you through pristine temperate rainforest. Guides point out sassafras, myrtle, and the legendary Huon pine, which is among the oldest trees in the world. The walk is relatively brief but offers a tangible connection to the forest’s quiet grandeur and the opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna.
The voyage also includes a visit to Sarah Island, once home to a feared penal colony. Today, you’ll explore its ruins and hear stories that bring this rugged past to life. Several reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling ability, making the history both engaging and memorable—one reviewer noted that the tour guide “tells a great story,” adding a lively touch to the visit.
As the cruise winds down, passengers are encouraged to enjoy the buffet dinner, a carefully prepared chef-style buffet featuring a variety of dishes. You can also buy drinks from the onboard cash bar, and those in the premier upper deck can enjoy an open bar, lounge access, and canapés—making for a relaxed, luxurious finish to the trip.
The return to Strahan is around 6 hours after departure, giving ample time to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights. The cruise ends back at the original wharf, with plenty of time to explore Strahan afterward if you wish.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Strahan
The Value of the Experience
While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, the inclusions—scenic cruising, guided storytelling, on-shore walks, and a buffet dinner—offer strong value. The attention to comfort, with the option to upgrade to the premier upper deck, adds a touch of luxury, especially with its private lounge and open bar.
Travelers have praised the professionalism of the crew, with one reviewer noting, “Staff were very professional,” which enhances the overall experience. The guided narrative also adds depth, making the scenic views more meaningful rather than just pretty scenery.
The slow pace and limited wildlife sightings may be a minor disappointment to some, but the focus on flora, history, and tranquility often outweighs these points. This cruise caters well to those who prefer a relaxed, informative experience over adventure or wildlife spotting.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for those who appreciate nature, history, and good food in a peaceful setting. If you enjoy guided stories that bring the past alive, you’ll find the tour engaging. It’s also suited for travelers who want a comfortable, daytime activity that’s both scenic and educational.
However, those with mobility issues should note the restroom access and limited wheelchair accessibility. It’s best for those comfortable with a slow, relaxed pace and a moderate amount of walking.
The Sum Up
This Gordon River evening cruise offers a nicely balanced mix of stunning scenery, storytelling, and culinary pleasure. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience Tasmania’s wilderness with a bit of luxury and a lot of insight. The combination of full-length windows, on-shore walks, and a gourmet buffet makes it a memorable outing that highlights the region’s natural beauty and historical intrigue.
If you enjoy a peaceful cruise with informative guides and a delicious meal, this tour is a strong contender. It’s also a wonderful way to wind down after exploring Tasmania’s west coast, especially if you prefer a comfortable, well-run experience that combines scenery and stories in equal measure.
From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Strahan
FAQ
Is this cruise suitable for children or infants?
Infants can join for free if they do not occupy a seat. Children are welcome, but keep in mind, the experience involves a 6-hour journey and walking on boardwalks—so plan accordingly.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, on the main deck. However, restrooms are down a flight of stairs, and motor scooters are not permitted due to size limitations.
What should I bring with me?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor weather, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Since food is provided onboard, no need to pack a meal, but bringing a camera for photos is a good idea.
Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, there’s a cash bar on the Main Deck. Premier upper deck ticket holders have access to an open bar and can enjoy canapés.
How long does the cruise last?
The full experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including cruising, on-shore walks, and dining.
Is there a dress code?
Casual clothing is fine—just dress comfortably for the weather and perhaps bring layers in case it’s cool on the water.
What if the weather is bad?
The cruise operates in most weather conditions, but severe weather might lead to cancellations or changes. Check the cancellation policy, which allows full refunds if canceled up to 3 days in advance.
Are there any dietary options available?
While not explicitly mentioned, the buffet is chef-prepared, and special dietary needs should be clarified at booking or with the tour provider.
How do I find the meeting point?
Check in with Gordon River Cruises at 3:00 PM behind the terminal, where the Spirit of the Wild boat docks. The coordinates are -42.15330123901367, 145.3286895751953. Alternatively, you can collect your boarding pass the day before.
This Gordon River cruise balances natural beauty, history, and gourmet dining into a memorable Tasmanian experience. It’s a gentle, thoughtful tour with enough comforts and storytelling to satisfy a variety of travelers, especially those who value a scenic, educational, and delicious outing.
You can check availability for your dates here:
