For those seeking a truly immersive Tasmanian adventure, the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the state’s breathtaking wilderness. Aboard a state-of-the-art catamaran, guests embark on a scenic journey down the UNESCO-listed Gordon River, complemented by a guided rainforest walk and a tour of the historic Sarah Island convict settlement. From the delectable buffet featuring locally sourced fare to the stunning natural vistas, this cruise promises an experience that will leave a lasting impression. With a range of inclusions and seasonal availability, it’s a must-consider for anyone looking to discover the rugged beauty of Tasmania’s west coast.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Strahan.

Key Points

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Key Points

  • The Gordon River Cruise offers a 115-foot catamaran experience with a capacity of 210 passengers, operating seasonally from December 27th to January 16th.
  • The cruise immerses passengers in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness, featuring a guided rainforest walk and scenic views of the Tasmanian West Coast.
  • A guided tour of the historic Sarah Island convict settlement is a key highlight, providing insights into the island’s role in timber-cutting and shipbuilding.
  • The cruise includes a buffet meal featuring locally raised smoked salmon, as well as afternoon tea and beverages, with the option to purchase additional drinks and snacks.
  • The cruise experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience for all.

Overview of the Cruise

The Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise offers travelers a 115-foot (35-meter) catamaran experience to explore the natural and historic beauty of Tasmania’s West Coast.

Departing from Strahan, the cruise operates seasonally from December 27th to January 16th and can accommodate up to 210 passengers.

This UNESCO World Heritage-listed cruise takes guests on a journey down the Gordon River, where they’ll disembark for a rainforest walk and a guided tour of the Sarah Island convict settlement.

Onboard, travelers can enjoy a buffet meal featuring locally raised smoked salmon, afternoon tea, and live commentary from the skipper and local guides.

The cruise promises an immersive experience in the South West Wilderness of Tasmania.

Exploring Tasmanian Wilderness

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Exploring Tasmanian Wilderness

Guests aboard the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness, marveling at the region’s pristine natural beauty as the catamaran glides down the Gordon River.

During the cruise, travelers disembark for a guided rainforest walk, gaining firsthand insights into the area’s diverse ecosystems and endemic flora and fauna.

The rugged, untouched landscapes of the Tasmanian West Coast unfold before them, offering a glimpse into the majestic wilderness that has long captured the imagination of adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Through the live commentary provided by the skipper and local guides, guests deepen their understanding of the area’s rich history and environmental significance.

Guided Tour of Sarah Island

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Guided Tour of Sarah Island

As part of the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise experience, travelers embark on a guided tour of the historic Sarah Island, delving into the site’s harrowing past as a former convict settlement.

The on-board guides lead the exploration, providing insightful commentary on the island’s dark history and the plight of the convicts who were incarcerated there.

Visitors learn about:

  • The grueling conditions and harsh punishments endured by the convicts

  • The island’s role as a timber-cutting and shipbuilding outpost

  • The attempted escapes and rebellions that occurred within its walls

  • The lasting impact of the convict experience on Tasmania’s heritage

Through this immersive tour, guests gain a deeper understanding of the region’s complex history and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Dining Options and Inclusions

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Dining Options and Inclusions

Aboard the 115-foot (35-meter) catamaran, travelers can indulge in a buffet meal featuring locally raised smoked salmon as part of their upper deck seating, which also includes afternoon tea and a beverage.

Those seeking additional refreshments can purchase drinks and snacks on-board. While the current menu receives positive reviews, some travelers have suggested a hot meal option could further enhance the dining experience.

Catering to diverse needs, the cruise offers accessibility features such as wheelchair and stroller access, as well as infant seats for families traveling with young children.

Guests are advised to check-in at the booking office 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility and Meeting Details

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Accessibility and Meeting Details

The Gordon River Dinner Cruise caters to travelers with diverse needs, as it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible and also welcomes service animals.

Infant seats are available for families visiting with young children, who must be accompanied by an adult.

The meeting point for the cruise is located at 18 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468, Australia, and guests are advised to check in at the booking office 30 minutes before departure.

Key accessibility details include:

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infant seats available

Ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all, the cruise provides the necessary accommodations to make the scenic journey down the Gordon River an accessible and enjoyable outing.

Review Highlights and Feedback

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Review Highlights and Feedback

Travelers have highlighted the Gordon River Dinner Cruise‘s comfort, crew friendliness, and scenic wilderness experience in their reviews, while also providing suggestions for enhancing the food options.

The 19 reviews give the cruise a 5.0 rating, with passengers praising the stunning views of Tasmanian landscapes and the informative commentary from the skipper and on-board guides.

Several travelers noted that the buffet meal, featuring locally sourced smoked salmon, was enjoyable but suggested adding a hot meal option to the menu.

Cruise Schedule and Availability

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Cruise Schedule and Availability

The Gordon River Dinner Cruise operates on a seasonal schedule, with availability from December 27th to January 16th each year. The remainder of the year is unavailable for this particular tour.

Specifically, the cruise runs during the peak summer months when the weather is most favorable for exploring the Tasmanian wilderness.

While the exact reasons for this limited schedule aren’t explicitly stated, it’s likely that factors like inclement weather, reduced demand, and operational considerations play a role.

The key details regarding the cruise’s availability include:

  • Operates from December 27th to January 16th

  • Not available from January 17th to December 26th

  • Potential reasons for the seasonal schedule include weather, demand, and operations.

Cruise Experience and Features

Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise - Cruise Experience and Features

Aboard the 115-foot (35-meter) catamaran, travelers can expect to explore the natural and historic beauty of Tasmania’s West Coast, cruising down the Gordon River and disembarking for a guided rainforest walk.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness is the backdrop for this journey, with live commentary from the skipper and local on-board guides providing insights into the region’s rich history and environment.

A highlight of the experience is the guided tour of the Sarah Island convict settlement, offering a glimpse into the area’s dark past.

With a maximum capacity of 210 travelers, the cruise provides an intimate and immersive way to discover the wonders of this stunning corner of Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The cruise operator does not have a strict dress code. Comfortable, casual attire is generally recommended, as the cruise will involve some walking and exposure to the elements. Travelers should dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

The cruise has no age restrictions for children, but they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Infant seats are available to accommodate younger travelers on the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

No, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise offers a buffet meal, afternoon tea, and beverages for purchase. Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted to be brought onboard.

Are There Any Specific Dietary Requirements Accommodated?

The cruise offers a buffet meal, but they accommodate various dietary needs. Travelers with special requirements can notify the staff in advance, who will ensure appropriate food options are available during the dining experience.

How Reliable Is the Cruise Schedule During Peak Season?

The cruise schedule is generally reliable during the peak season, though it may be subject to occasional weather-related delays or cancellations. Travelers should confirm the schedule and plan accordingly to avoid any disruptions to their plans.

Recap

The Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise provides a unique opportunity to take in Tasmania’s stunning natural beauty and rich history.

From the UNESCO-listed Gordon River to the haunting Sarah Island convict settlement, this cruise offers an unforgettable experience complemented by a delectable buffet meal and insightful commentary.

Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, this cruise is a must-do for those exploring the wonders of Tasmania’s West Coast.