Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s untamed wilderness, the Gordon River Cruise from Strahan offers a captivating journey into the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Eco-friendly electric motors power the vessel as it glides along the serene waterways, immersing visitors in the awe-inspiring Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. With a chef-prepared buffet, dedicated onboard guides, and the option to explore the historic Sarah Island, this expedition promises an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets this cruise apart is its commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the natural wonder remains pristine for generations to come. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the details that make this journey so remarkable.
This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Strahan.
Key Points
- The Gordon River Cruise departs from the town of Strahan and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
- The cruise includes a disembarkation at the historic Sarah Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard.
- The cruise features a chef-prepared buffet lunch, dedicated on-board guides, and a quiet, eco-friendly electric motor system.
- The 4-hour experience includes a 3-hour Gordon River cruise and a 1-hour Sarah Island tour.
- The cruise operates with a commitment to environmental sustainability, including a hybrid propulsion system and environmentally designed hull.
Overview of the Cruise
The Gordon River Cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, departing from the charming town of Strahan.
During the cruise, visitors will have the chance to disembark and explore the historic Sarah Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard.
The cruise features a chef-prepared buffet lunch, dedicated on-board guides, and a quiet, eco-friendly electric motor system for smooth sailing.
Whether you’re a nature lover or history buff, the Gordon River Cruise is a must-do experience in Tasmania.
With over 1,420 reviews, this cruise takes guests on a 3-hour journey along the Gordon River, where they’ll witness the pristine natural beauty of the region.
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Inclusions and Amenities
On board the Gordon River Cruise, visitors can enjoy a chef-prepared buffet lunch during the morning cruises. Plus, dedicated on-board guides provide commentary and insights throughout the journey.
The vessel also features a restroom, as well as a cash bar available on the Main Deck. The cruise operates under electric motors during the quiet portions on the Gordon River, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
While drinks aren’t included, except for those traveling on the Premier Upper Deck, the cruise offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. The vessel’s unique hybrid propulsion system and environmentally designed hull further contribute to the sustainable and eco-friendly nature of the cruise.
Exclusions and Limitations
Aside from the inclusions, the Gordon River Cruise doesn’t cover drinks for passengers, except for those traveling on the Premier Upper Deck.
Plus, gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off aren’t included in the cruise package. Wheelchair accessibility is limited to the Main Deck only.
Passengers should note that the cruise’s duration is 3 hours for the Gordon River and 1 hour for Sarah Island, with the Gordon River Cruises portion lasting 15 minutes.
Confirmation of the booking is subject to availability and is provided within 48 hours. While infants can travel for free, they can’t occupy a seat.
The Spirit of the Wild vessel features a unique hybrid propulsion system and an environmentally designed hull.
Meeting Point and Duration
Guests meet at the designated meeting point of 24 Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468, Australia to begin their 3-hour Gordon River cruise and 1-hour Sarah Island tour.
The Gordon River Cruises portion of the experience lasts 15 minutes.
The total duration of the experience is 4 hours, providing ample time for guests to journey through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and explore the former convict settlement and shipyard of Sarah Island.
The meeting point is conveniently located, allowing guests to easily access the departure point for this immersive cruise through the pristine wilderness.
With the included admission tickets, guests can look forward to an informative and memorable adventure along the Gordon River and at Sarah Island.
Additional Information
The Gordon River Cruise experience offers several additional details travelers should be aware of. Confirmation of the booking is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. Infants can join the cruise free of charge, provided they don’t occupy a seat. Plus, the cruise’s Main Deck is wheelchair accessible, catering to guests with mobility needs.
The tour operator’s vessel, Spirit of the Wild, boasts a unique hybrid propulsion system and environmentally designed hull, highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.
The cruise also includes the following:
- Cash bar available on the Main Deck.
- Restroom facilities on board.
- Dedicated on-board guides to enhance the experience.
Exploring Sarah Island
During the Gordon River Cruise, travelers have the opportunity to explore the historic Sarah Island, a former convict settlement and shipyard.
On this stop, visitors can learn about the island’s dark past as a penal colony, where convicts were forced to build ships and endure harsh living conditions. Guided tours take guests through the remaining ruins and buildings, painting a vivid picture of what life was like for the prisoners incarcerated here.
Visitors can imagine the struggles and hardships faced by the convicts as they wander the grounds, gaining a deeper appreciation for this significant chapter in Tasmania’s history.
The Sarah Island experience adds an intriguing layer to the Gordon River Cruise.
Environmentally Conscious Design
The Gordon River Cruises’ Spirit of the Wild features a unique hybrid propulsion system and environmentally designed hull, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability and minimizing the tour’s ecological impact. This hybrid system combines the power of electric motors with the efficiency of diesel engines, allowing the vessel to operate in a quiet, emissions-free mode while navigating the delicate Gordon River ecosystem.
The vessel’s hull design also prioritizes environmental considerations, reducing wake and wave action to protect the river’s fragile shorelines.
The company’s environmentally conscious approach extends to other aspects of the cruise, such as:
- Using biodegradable products on board
- Implementing recycling and waste reduction initiatives
- Offering educational programs to raise awareness about sustainable tourism
Booking and Confirmation
Upon booking the Gordon River Cruise, customers can expect to receive their confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The confirmation ensures that travelers have secured their spot on the tour. Bookings are based on availability, so it’s important to plan ahead.
Once confirmed, travelers can look forward to the 3-hour cruise along the Gordon River, as well as the 1-hour excursion to the historic Sarah Island.
Infants are welcome to join the cruise at no additional cost, provided they don’t occupy a seat.
With the confirmation in hand, travelers can arrive at the meeting point on the Esplanade in Strahan, ready to embark on their Tasmanian wilderness adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We See Wildlife During the Cruise?
Yes, passengers may spot Tasmanian wildlife during the cruise, such as sea eagles, seals, or even humpback whales in the right season. The cruise travels through the pristine Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, providing opportunities to observe native fauna.
Is the Cruise Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The cruise is wheelchair accessible on the Main Deck, providing mobility-impaired travelers the opportunity to experience the scenic cruising. However, the Sarah Island tour may have limited accessibility.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs on Board?
Yes, passengers can purchase souvenirs on board. The cruise offers a cash bar and the opportunity to buy items related to the tour experience, such as books, clothing, and other mementos.
Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Our Own Food?
Passengers can bring their own food and snacks on the Gordon River Cruise. However, a chef-prepared buffet lunch is included on the morning cruises, so bringing extra food is generally unnecessary. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased onboard.
Can We Take Photos or Videos During the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the cruise. However, the tour operator may request that flash photography be avoided to prevent disturbing wildlife. Specific photography policies should be confirmed prior to the tour.
Recap
The Gordon River Cruise from Strahan offers an immersive experience in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Visitors can explore the historic Sarah Island, enjoy a chef-prepared buffet lunch, and experience the cruise’s eco-friendly electric motor system.
With dedicated guides and complimentary drinks on the Premier Upper Deck, the 4-hour journey is a sustainable and informative way to discover the natural beauty of the region.