Cruise Macquarie Harbour into the dark reach of the Gordon River for an evening of convict history, temperate rainforest walks and a Tasmanian dinner on board. This family-run Strahan cruise blends hands-on local commentary with close encounters of the World Heritage-listed wilderness.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The Harbour Master eases out of Strahan as late afternoon light flattens the harbour; gulls wheel and the shoreline cliffs sharpen into silhouette. On this afternoon dinner cruise you cross Macquarie Harbour, thread the narrow channel known as Hells Gates, then follow the dark, reflective ribbon of the Gordon River into the World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes a short, mostly flat rainforest boardwalk and light walking on uneven surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Sarah Island was an early 19th-century penal settlement whose ruins now offer a stark, interpretive window into Tasmania’s convict era.
Conservation
The Gordon River and surrounding rainforest are UNESCO-protected; operators use boardwalks and guided access to limit trampling and protect fragile root systems.
Reserve your spot on the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in warm, waterproof layers
West coast evenings are cool and often wet; a windproof outer layer and fleece will keep you comfortable on deck and at the boardwalk.
Take seasickness precautions
If you’re sensitive to motion, sit mid-ship and take preventative medication before boarding—the channel can be choppy at times.
Bring a headlamp or small torch for the walk
Evening rainforest sections can be dim beneath the canopy—hands-free lighting helps you watch your footing and photograph safely.
Collect tickets early and arrive 30 minutes before departure
Boarding passes are held at the booking office; arriving early avoids a last-minute rush and gives time to stow gear.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry on deck and during the rainforest stroll when drizzle or spray is common.
fall
Non-slip closed shoes
Required for safe footing on wet gangways and the rainforest boardwalk.
Seasickness tablets or patches
Useful if you’re prone to motion sickness on open-water stretches and the narrow channel.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps spot wildlife and distant river features without disturbing the shore.