Nestled along the banks of the picturesque Tamar River, Launceston offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its natural beauty and rich history through a 2.5-hour discovery cruise. Whether you choose to embark on a morning or afternoon journey, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of Cataract Gorge, charming riverfront communities, and captivating tales from a knowledgeable guide. Sip on local wines, savor freshly picked fruit, and learn about the region’s captivating folklore – all while navigating this scenic waterway. But the real question remains: which cruise will you choose to uncover Launceston’s enchanting secrets?

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Launceston.

Key Points

Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise - Key Points

  • A 2.5-hour cruise along the Tamar River in Launceston, offering a guided tour of the Cataract Gorge and riverfront communities.
  • Morning and afternoon cruise options available, with commentary on local history, folklore, and sights.
  • Inclusive of local food, wine, and beer tastings, as well as tea, coffee, and fresh fruit.
  • Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Positive customer reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, high-quality offerings, and a relaxed, scenic experience.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Overview

Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise - Cruise Overview

The Launceston Discovery Cruise is a 2.5-hour morning or afternoon excursion that takes passengers along the picturesque Tamar River, offering a comprehensive exploration of the city’s riverfront and natural surroundings.

Priced at €67.56 per person, the cruise features a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible.

Travelers can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility of reserving their spot with no upfront payment.

The cruise promises an immersive experience, showcasing charming communities, vineyards, and farms along the river, complemented by tastings of local wine, beer, and a fresh fruit selection.

Cruise Experience

Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise - Cruise Experience

During the Launceston Discovery Cruise, passengers can expect to cruise into the stunning Cataract Gorge and explore Launceston’s vibrant riverfront precinct. Here, they’ll observe historical buildings like St. Mathias Church and Rosevears Hotel as they head north past Tamar Island.

The cruise offers a charming journey through riverfront communities, vineyards, and farms, accompanied by live commentary from the skipper about the folklore and history of the area. Passengers can enjoy a taste of the local flavors, with a selection of morning tea, fresh fruit, wine, and beer tastings.

The cruise provides a well-rounded experience that allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Tamar River region.

Key aspects of the cruise experience include:

  • Cruising into Cataract Gorge and Launceston’s riverfront

  • Observing historical buildings and natural landscapes

  • Exploring charming riverfront communities, vineyards, and farms

  • Enjoying a selection of local food, wine, and beer tastings

  • Learning about the area’s folklore and history from the skipper

Inclusions

Launceston: 2.5-Hour Morning or Afternoon Discovery Cruise - Inclusions

The Launceston Discovery Cruise comes packed with a variety of inclusions to ensure passengers enjoy a well-rounded experience.

Travelers can indulge in morning or afternoon tea, along with unlimited tea and coffee, as well as a fresh fruit selection.

Plus, the cruise offers a small tasting of local wine and beer, providing an opportunity to sample the region’s signature libations.

The inclusions don’t stop there, as hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities, are all covered, allowing guests to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the scenic beauty of the Tamar River.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the Launceston Discovery Cruise delivers a truly comprehensive and enjoyable excursion.

Participant Information

Guests should be aware that the meeting point for the Launceston Discovery Cruise may vary depending on whether they’ve booked the morning or afternoon option.

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and pets aren’t allowed, with the exception of service animals.

Key participant information includes:

  • Morning cruise meeting point: Cataract Gorge Cruise Terminal

  • Afternoon cruise meeting point: Riverside Cruise Terminal

  • Cruise times: 9:30 AM or 1:30 PM

  • Cruise duration: 2.5 hours

  • Cruise capacity: Up to 120 passengers

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews

Overall, guests have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback about the Launceston Discovery Cruise, awarding it an impressive 4.6 out of 5-star rating based on 204 reviews. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable snacks and tastings, with the service in particular earning a perfect 5-star score.

Metric Rating
Guide 4.8/5
Transport 4.8/5
Service 5/5
Organization 4/5

Positive comments highlight the informative commentary provided by the skipper, the picturesque landscapes, and the high-quality food and beverage offerings that enhance the cruise experience.

Morning Cruise Schedule

For those booking the morning cruise, the departure time is typically around 10:00 AM, allowing guests to explore Launceston’s stunning Cataract Gorge and riverfront precinct during the pleasant morning hours.

This earlier start also provides an opportunity to witness the tranquility of the Tamar River as it winds its way through the picturesque countryside.

The morning cruise offers a serene and rejuvenating experience, perfect for those seeking to:

  • Admire the region’s natural beauty in the soft morning light

  • Enjoy a leisurely and informative tour with a knowledgeable guide

  • Indulge in a selection of local treats and beverages

  • Escape the crowds and explore the area at a more relaxed pace

  • Start the day with a memorable and immersive river adventure.

Afternoon Cruise Schedule

The afternoon cruise, with a typical departure around 2:00 PM, allows visitors to explore Launceston’s picturesque riverfront and Cataract Gorge during the tranquil afternoon hours. This later start time offers an opportunity to witness the Tamar River’s serene beauty as it meanders through the idyllic countryside, providing a relaxing and informative river adventure.

Guests can expect to cruise north past Tamar Island, observing historical buildings and charming riverfront communities. The live commentary from the skipper provides insightful details about the region’s folklore and history.

Onboard amenities include a fresh fruit selection, local wine and beer tasting, and unlimited tea and coffee, enhancing the overall cruise experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spot on the Launceston Discovery Cruise and pay nothing today through the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option. Alternatively, they may choose to pay in full at the time of booking.

The cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing guests to receive a full refund if their plans change.

The booking and cancellation policy provides customers with:

  • Flexibility to secure their reservation without an upfront payment

  • Ability to cancel with a full refund if needed

  • Convenience of booking directly through the tour provider

  • Assurance of a hassle-free experience

  • Peace of mind knowing their plans can easily be adjusted

Recap

The Launceston discovery cruise offers a captivating way to explore the Tamar River and its surrounding landmarks.

Passengers can enjoy picturesque views, local wine and beer tastings, and informative commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

With wheelchair accessibility, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a relaxed atmosphere, this cruise provides a delightful opportunity to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Launceston region.

You can check if your dates are available here: