Evening Dinner Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, scenic journey through Tasmania’s Gordon River, this Evening Dinner Cruise offers an experience full of natural beauty, intriguing history, and delicious local food.

While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itineraries, and consistent high ratings suggest it’s a standout for those wanting a relaxed but enriching way to explore the UNESCO-listed wilderness near Strahan.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines stunning scenery with educational insights and a relaxed dining experience—all aboard a modern vessel that emphasizes quiet, environmentally friendly cruising. And, if you’re a fan of good food and wine, the onboard buffet and open bar on the upper deck really make this feel like a special occasion.

One possible consideration is the timing—this tour departs in the late afternoon, so it’s more about sunset views and evening ambiance than full daytime exploration. Also, hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll want to plan your transport to and from the meeting point.

This cruise is perfect for travelers who appreciate comfort, scenic beauty, and a taste of Tasmania’s rich landscape and local produce. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, well-rounded experience will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Cruising on the Gordon River offers views of ancient rainforests, rare Huon pines, and the meeting point of river and ocean at Hells Gates.
• Expert guides and storytelling: Knowledgeable guides share insights into the natural environment and the convict history of Sarah Island.
• Comfort and environment: The vessel’s hybrid propulsion system ensures a quiet, eco-friendly cruise, enhancing the experience without disturbing the wilderness.
• Gourmet dining: The onboard buffet dinner, prepared by a chef, showcases local Tasmanian produce, with options for different seating classes including an open bar.
• Balanced experience: Combining nature, history, and cuisine, the tour lasts about 6 hours—ample time to relax and soak in the scenery.
• Top-rated: Consistently rated a perfect 5.0 based on 10 reviews, with 100% recommending it—testament to its quality and value.

The Itinerary in Detail

Gordon River: Quiet Passage into Wilderness

The journey begins at 3:15 pm from the meeting point at 24 Esplanade, Strahan. As you board the Spirit of the Wild, a state-of-the-art hybrid vessel, you’ll immediately notice its sleek design and environmentally conscious features. The boat’s hybrid propulsion system allows for nearly silent cruising, which means you’ll get closer to the natural sounds of the rainforest and wildlife.

Once underway, guides will share stories about the UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness, highlighting the significance of the rainforest and its ancient trees. The cruise takes roughly three hours to reach Heritage Landing, where you’ll step ashore for an evocative walk through the rainforest—an experience that many reviewers describe as both calming and educational.

Cruising the Gordon River isn’t just about the view, but about understanding what makes this area so special. Reviewers praise guides like Emily and Lyell for their charismatic storytelling and deep knowledge, making the experience more meaningful. Fans of nature will love the chance to see some of the oldest, tallest, and rarest trees in Australia, especially the Huon pines—some over 2,000 years old—that are truly awe-inspiring.

Sarah Island: Crime and Punishment in the Wilderness

After a leisurely lunch onboard, the cruise proceeds to Sarah Island, a site with a dark but fascinating history. When you step ashore here, guides from the Round Earth Company take you on an interpretive tour lasting about three hours. They recount the gripping and often harsh convict stories that shaped this remote island.

Multiple reviews highlight guides like Kiah and Lyell as engaging storytellers who make the area’s convict past come alive. One reviewer emphasizes, “The tour of Sarah Island was fascinating, and our guide Lyell was very charismatic.” This part of the cruise is a hit for history buffs and those interested in Australia’s penal past, providing context to the rugged landscape and the resilience of the convicts.

Hells Gates: Where River Meets the Ocean

The final highlight is navigating through Hells Gates, the narrow, treacherous entrance where the Gordon River joins the Southern Ocean. Here, many travelers say the passage itself is a thrill—an impressive natural gateway with powerful currents and dramatic scenery.

You can enjoy a complimentary beer, wine, or soft drink on the main deck at Hells Gates, with an open bar available on the upper deck in the premium seating. Reviewers describe this segment as “the most incredible part,” emphasizing the awe-inspiring nature of the encounter. It encapsulates Tasmania’s wild spirit, leaving visitors with a sense of the raw forces shaping this landscape.

Dining and Comfort

The dining experience onboard is often praised as a highlight. The buffet dinner is chef-prepared, showcasing regional specialties and Tasmanian produce. Multiple reviews mention the delicious food and good quality, with one reviewer calling it “a meal worth every dollar.”

Seating options include three classes, from comfortable main deck seats to the premier upper deck with an open bar—ideal for those wanting a more premium experience or just a little extra luxury. The relaxed yet refined atmosphere makes it feel like a special occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special day or just wanting to treat yourself.

Duration and Practicalities

The entire cruise lasts roughly six hours, starting at 3:15 pm and returning to the meeting point around sunset, which adds a beautiful ending to the day. While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point is central and accessible, making your start straightforward.

It’s worth noting that the boat accommodates up to 190 travelers, so while it’s not a small-group experience, the guides do a good job of creating an engaging atmosphere. Reviewers say the crew is attentive and friendly, whether helping with requests or making sure everyone stays comfortable.

Price and Value

At $111.17 per person, this cruise offers a lot for the price. You’re not just paying for a scenic boat ride but also for a full afternoon and evening of discovery, storytelling, and dining—a package that blends education and leisure. Many reviews repeatedly mention the excellent value they received, especially given the quality of the guides, the scenery, and the included meals and drinks.

Compared to other tours in the area, this one stands out for its balance of comfort, authenticity, and educational content. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, all-in-one experience without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike. If you enjoy learning about Australia’s wilderness and convict history while enjoying a gourmet meal and scenic views, you’ll find this experience satisfying. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, families with older children interested in history, or solo travelers eager to meet friendly guides and fellow travelers.

It’s especially good for those who value environmentally conscious travel—the vessel’s hybrid system minimizes impact, allowing you to enjoy pristine wilderness without guilt.

The Sum Up

The Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River offers a well-rounded experience blending stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and delicious local cuisine. It’s a great way to see Tasmania’s wilderness at sunset and learn about its fascinating history from guides who genuinely care about sharing their knowledge.

If you appreciate comfortable vessels, good food, and authentic insights, this tour provides excellent value for a full, rewarding evening. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for an immersive experience that combines nature, history, and leisure in one memorable package.

While it’s not the cheapest option around, the quality of the guides, the serene environment, and the included dinner make it an experience worth considering. Just remember to book at least three days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?
The tour departs at 3:15 pm from the meeting point at 24 Esplanade, Strahan.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Strahan.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including cruising, stops, and dinner, returning around sunset.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, guided commentary, a chef-prepared buffet dinner, and drinks (soft drinks, wine, beer depending on your seating class).

Are there different seating options?
Yes, you can choose between three seating classes: main deck with a complimentary drink, or the premier upper deck with an open bar for a more upscale experience.

Is the vessel eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The Spirit of the Wild uses a hybrid propulsion system that allows for quiet, environmentally conscious cruising.

Who is this cruise best suited for?
Travelers interested in scenic natural beauty, history, and good food, especially those who value comfort and informative guides. It’s great for couples, families, or solo adventurers wanting a memorable evening in Tasmania’s wilderness.

This cruise offers a genuine taste of Tasmania’s wild heart, all from the comfort of a modern vessel with a focus on sustainability and storytelling. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil, scenic evening, it’s an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.