Strahan: Gordon River Cruise with Lunch & Sarah Island Walk

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania and want to experience its wild, untouched beauty without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort, the Gordon River Cruise with Lunch and Sarah Island Walk offers a compelling option.

This 6-hour journey from Strahan takes you into the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area, blending scenic cruising, engaging storytelling, and a taste of local history—all on a boat that’s as quiet as a whisper thanks to electric motors.

What we particularly love about this tour are the stunning river reflections at Gordon River—something truly unforgettable—and the delicious buffet lunch that’s served on board, making the trip both scenic and satisfying. A potential consideration is that the weather on Tasmania’s west coast can be unpredictable, so packing some rain gear and warm layers is wise.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, history, and good food, and who want a comfortable yet authentic adventure.

Key Points

• Serene cruising with electric motors offers a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery without engine noise.
• Expert guides provide engaging, informative commentary and storytelling.
• The buffet lunch is well-reviewed as tasty and plentiful, adding value to the experience.
• Excursions to Heritage Landing and Sarah Island enrich the journey with nature walks and historical insights.
• The tour’s flexible seating options cater to different preferences, from comfort to premium viewing.
• Accessible for wheelchairs and infants, though some limitations apply.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Voyage into Tasmania’s Wilderness

This cruise is a well-rounded way to explore Tasmania’s west coast without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Departing from Strahan, a charming west coast town, the trip begins with a cruise across Macquarie Harbour—a vast, fjord-like inlet that introduces you to the area’s rugged beauty. The boat itself is designed for comfort and quiet, thanks to electric motors that minimize engine noise and vibration—meaning you’ll see and hear more of the surrounding wilderness.

The boat’s full-length windows are a highlight, giving everyone a good view no matter where you sit, whether on the deck or inside. You can opt for standard seats or upgrade to the Premier Upper Deck, which offers leather recliners, a private lounge, and even access to a complimentary open bar and snacks. This upgraded option really enhances the experience if you’re after a bit of luxury and relaxation.

The Highlights of the Cruise

Hells Gates and Macquarie Harbour

The journey begins with a glide through Hells Gates, known as one of the most notorious entrances to Macquarie Harbour. Here, you’ll get a sense of the turbulent waters that historically posed a challenge for ships and convicts alike. The guides do a good job explaining the significance of this narrow, treacherous passage, making it a great start for those interested in maritime history.

Salmon and Trout Farming

As the boat moves towards Heritage Landing, you’ll pass fish farms where Tasmania’s famous salmon and trout are cultivated. According to reviews, this part of the cruise offers a chance to learn about and sample some of the region’s renowned produce. It’s small touches like this that make the trip feel authentic and connected to local life.

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Heritage Landing & Rainforest Walks

One of the most praised aspects of the tour is the stop at Heritage Landing, where the guides take you on a walk through temperate rainforest. Expect to see sassafras, myrtle, and Huon pine—some of Tasmania’s oldest and most treasured trees. The elevated boardwalks make the walk accessible and safe, while the guides enrich the experience with insights into the flora and fauna. One reviewer noted, “the walk was lovely, and the rainforest was breathtaking,” which captures the essence of this peaceful, nature-based stop.

Sarah Island: A Piece of Tasmania’s Darker Past

The highlight for many is the Sarah Island tour, a former convict settlement and shipyard long associated with harsh conditions and escape stories. The guides here are passionate and knowledgeable, with reviews praising guides like Lyel and Shannon for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills. “Sarah Island was made especially interesting by our guide,” said one traveler, highlighting the effectiveness of the guided walk.

The ruins evoke a sense of history and hardship, and the guides share stories that will send shivers down your spine—perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about Tasmania’s penal past.

Food and Beverage on Board

The cruise’s buffet lunch is consistently praised as delicious and well-organized. It’s a great way to refuel after the morning’s adventures, with a variety of options to suit most tastes. You can purchase drinks from the onboard cash bar, which offers wine, beer, and soft drinks—perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

For those who opt for the Premier Upper Deck, the added complimentary drinks, tea, and canapes make the experience feel more indulgent. Multiple reviews describe the onboard food as “excellent,” and many travelers highlight the generous portions and quality of the meals.

Seating Options and Comfort

Seating on the boat is allocated, but passengers are free to move around and enjoy the open-air decks. The standard seats on the Main Deck are comfortable and offer good views, but the upgraded Premier deck provides a more luxurious experience with leather recliners and a private lounge. This option is especially popular among travelers seeking a relaxed, premium environment.

The vessel’s smooth ride and climate-controlled interior make it suitable for all weather conditions, though travelers are advised to bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially rain jackets and warm layers, since the weather can be variable.

Accessibility and Practicalities

This tour is wheelchair accessible on the main deck, making it inclusive for those with mobility challenges. Infants are free if they don’t take a seat, which is a nice touch for families. Parking is convenient, with a Pay & Display lot just 250 meters from the terminal, and check-in is straightforward, starting at 8:00 AM for the 8:30 AM departure.

Travelers consistently mention the friendly crew and smooth organization, emphasizing that the experience is hassle-free and well-paced.

What the Reviews Reveal

Reviewers repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery—many remarking on the peacefulness of the river and the clarity of the reflections. “The whole experience was awesome,” wrote one traveler, capturing the general sentiment.

Several reviewers also highlight the value for money—noting that the quality of guides, food, and scenery makes the price worthwhile. The delicious buffet, comfortable boat, and engaging storytelling combine to create a memorable day.

Considerations and Tips for Travelers

While the tour is highly rated, a few considerations are worth noting. The weather on Tasmania’s west coast can be unpredictable, so packing rain gear and warm clothing is advisable. The seating is ticketed and allocated, so arriving early ensures a preferred spot, particularly on the Premium deck if available.

If you’re sensitive to motion or prone to seasickness, note that the boat is smooth, but the weather can make the experience more challenging. Also, this tour is best suited for those who enjoy nature walks, history, and scenic cruising—it’s not a high-adventure trip but rather a relaxed exploration.

This Gordon River cruise from Strahan offers a well-balanced blend of breathtaking scenery, engaging stories, and local flavor. The knowledgeable guides, excellent food, and serene boat ride make it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to experience Tasmania’s wilderness with comfort and authenticity.

If you value stunning reflections, history that sparks the imagination, and a delicious meal in a peaceful setting, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate nature, history, and good company—a day trip that leaves you with a true sense of Tasmania’s wild heart.

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible on the main deck. However, mobility scooters are not permitted due to size limitations, and the tour is best suited for those able to navigate the main deck.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including cruising, on-shore excursions, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so a rain jacket and warm layers are recommended.

Can I buy drinks on board?
Yes, there is a cash bar on the main deck, offering drinks from soft drinks to alcohol. Premium seating includes access to a complimentary open bar.

Are children and infants allowed?
Infants can join for free if they don’t occupy a seat. The experience is suitable for families, but keep in mind the walking and weather conditions.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of scenic beauty, expert guides, a quality buffet lunch, and multiple on-shore stops makes this a very worthwhile experience at a reasonable price—especially for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Tasmania’s wilderness in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby