From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River

Planning a trip to Tasmania’s rugged west coast? If so, the Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River offers a fantastic way to combine natural beauty, history, and exceptional food in one memorable 6-hour adventure. While we haven’t personally joined this specific cruise, the well-rounded reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that many travelers find both engaging and worthwhile.

Two aspects that stand out immediately are the stunning scenery—from tranquil river reflections to ancient rainforests—and the delicious buffet dinner served onboard, which elevates the cruise beyond a simple sightseeing tour. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the accessibility limitations—noted especially around the restrooms and for those with mobility aids. Still, for travelers who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, engaging storytelling, and good food, this cruise seems tailored to those craving an authentic Tasmanian wilderness experience with a touch of luxury.

This tour suits nature lovers who enjoy learning about local history, as well as those seeking a relaxing outing with spectacular views. Families, couples, and solo explorers alike will find plenty to appreciate here, especially if the idea of a scenic river cruise coupled with on-shore explorations sounds appealing.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: Enjoy pristine views of the Gordon River, reflections, and ancient rainforests from full-length windows or outdoor decks.
• Historical Insights: Explore Sarah Island’s ruins and hear captivating stories about Tasmania’s convict past.
• Delicious Food: The onboard buffet dinner is a highlight, with a focus on quality and variety, including optional drinks from the cash bar.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew provide engaging commentary, blending history, natural phenomena, and local stories.
• Flexible Seating Options: Choose from standard main deck seats or upgrade to the upper deck for a more luxurious experience with lounge access and an open bar.
• On-Shore Excursions: Walk through temperate rainforest at Heritage Landing and visit the historic Sarah Island, making the experience more than just a boat ride.
• Wildlife and Nature: While reviews note that wildlife sightings are rare, the focus is on the serene beauty of the landscape and the impressive Huon pine.
• Value for Money: Combining scenic cruising, on-shore walks, and a quality buffet, many reviews suggest this tour offers good value for the price.
• Accessibility: Main deck is wheelchair accessible, though restroom facilities are a bit of a climb, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The cruise departs from Strahan in the late afternoon, with check-in at 3:00 PM. The boat, known as the “Spirit of the Wild,” is a modern vessel equipped with full-length windows—a design choice that ensures you get breathtaking views no matter where you are seated.

You’ll start by passing through Hells Gates, the narrow channel where the harbor meets the Southern Ocean—an impressive sight that signals the transition from open sea to calmer waters. Though some reviewers note Hells Gate isn’t particularly interesting aside from its name, it’s still a significant geographical feature and a dramatic entry point.

Next, the cruise navigates across Macquarie Harbour, a vast, historic waterway that once served as a major gateway for shipping and now offers peaceful reflections and expansive vistas. Here, you’ll learn about the salmon and trout farms that thrive in the area—an important part of Tasmania’s aquaculture industry—and get a taste of the local produce.

Heritage Landing is a highlight: a short walk through temperate rainforest where elevated boardwalks wind among trees like sassafras, myrtle, and the mighty Huon pine—one of the world’s oldest trees. This part of the tour appeals to nature enthusiasts who enjoy close-up encounters with pristine forests and a chance to stretch your legs.

Later, you’ll visit Sarah Island, the notorious penal colony where convicts were sent in the 19th century. While the ruins remain limited, the guide’s storytelling about the island’s history adds a vivid touch to this stop. One reviewer called the stories “spine-tingling,” emphasizing the compelling nature of the local lore.

The cruise concludes with a relaxing return journey, during which you’ll enjoy a chef-prepared buffet dinner. Many reviews praise the quality and variety of the food, noting that the dinner is a real treat amid the wilderness setting. The buffet offers a good selection, and drinks are available for purchase from the onboard cash bar.

For those upgrading to the Premium Upper Deck, you’ll find a more luxurious environment with leather recliners, access to a private lounge, and an open bar. This option also includes morning and afternoon tea and canapes, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed, upscale experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of staff and the informative commentary. One noted, “the crew member was telling us about the natural phenomena while also preparing dinner,” highlighting how engaging the guides are. The scenery receives universal praise, with many describing the river’s reflections as “breathtaking” and the rainforest walks as “superb.”

However, some comments point out that wildlife sightings are rare—probably due to the river’s depth and reeds—but not a dealbreaker. Instead, the focus is on the visual spectacle and stories that bring the landscape to life.

Food quality also garners praise, with many describing the buffet as “delicious” and “well-managed.” A few reviewers, expecting a hot meal, found the food average for the price, but overall, the consensus tilts toward satisfaction.

The accessibility aspect is mixed. While the main deck is wheelchair accessible, restrooms are down a flight of stairs, which some found limiting. Still, for most travelers with mobility aids, the main deck remains a good option.

Transportation, Timing, and Value

The cruise departs in the afternoon, making it a perfect choice for an after-lunch activity or a relaxing way to end your day in Strahan. The six-hour duration includes on-shore walks, scenic cruising, and dinner, offering good value for those wanting a comprehensive experience.

The vessel’s small group size and dedicated guides mean you’ll likely get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or simply enjoy the scenery. The choice of seating—standard or premium—allows you to tailor the experience to your budget and comfort preferences.

Pricing seems reasonable given the inclusions: scenic views, expert commentary, on-shore explorations, and a quality buffet dinner. The optional upgrades further enhance comfort and luxury, making it a well-rounded choice for a special evening.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is an excellent pick for those who appreciate natural beauty and history, especially if you enjoy stories about Tasmania’s convict past and colonial era. Travelers looking for a relaxing yet engaging experience will find the boat’s full-length windows and serene scenery captivating. Food lovers will also enjoy the chef-prepared buffet, which adds a touch of indulgence.

The guided walks at Heritage Landing and Sarah Island bring an interactive layer that makes the experience more immersive. While wildlife sightings may be limited, the peaceful, reflective waters and lush forests offer plenty of visual interest.

Accessibility is good on the main deck, but those with mobility concerns should note the restroom situation. The evening timing makes it suitable for a relaxed, scenic end to a day exploring Tasmania’s west coast.

This cruise offers a balanced blend of scenery, history, and comfort—ideal for travelers wanting an authentic Tasmanian experience with a touch of luxury. Whether visiting Tasmania for the first time or looking for a memorable way to wind down your trip, this tour fits many travelers’ wishes for a scenic, informative, and delicious adventure on the Gordon River.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children or infants?
Yes, infants are free if they do not occupy a seat. The experience is family-friendly, especially with the on-shore walks and scenic views.

What are the seating options?
You can choose standard seats on the main deck or upgrade to the premier upper deck for a more luxurious setting with leather recliners, private lounge, and an open bar.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The main deck is wheelchair accessible. However, restrooms are down a flight of stairs, which may limit access for some.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including cruising, walks, and dinner.

What is included in the dinner?
A chef-prepared buffet dinner is included, with options to purchase drinks at the onboard cash bar.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book ahead, especially since the tour departs at a set time and seating is allocated.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

What are the highlights of the tour?
Highlights include breathtaking river reflections, visits to Heritage Landing and Sarah Island, and the chance to learn about Tasmania’s salmon farming.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Mostly, yes—on the main deck. Be aware that the restrooms are not on the main deck and may pose some challenges.

What’s the best time of day to take this cruise?
The late afternoon/evening timing offers a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sunset or twilight views, making it ideal for a scenic, peaceful experience.

This detailed review should help you decide if the Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River is right for your Tasmania adventure. It promises a combination of natural splendor, engaging storytelling, and delicious food—an experience many travelers remember fondly.

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