Best Boat Tours On Gordon River, Strahan

Overview

Tasmania is home to lush natural landscapes, which aren’t always easy to access. Such is the enchanting Gordon River in Strahan which meanders through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, before emptying into the Macquarie Harbour. The quaint town of Strahan is the gateway to Gordon River and the Tasmanian west coast.

Located roughly 300 kms from Hobart, there are plenty of things to do in Strahan, from adventure activities to enjoying fresh seafood, exploring the dark yet rich history and meeting the native wildlife! Experience the absolute best of the region on a wilderness cruise, where breathtaking scenery of lush forests, tranquil waters, and rolling rainforest-clad hills unfolds before your eyes.

Just as iconic is the steam train, which ventures through the west coast wilderness. The rail route allows you to experience the rugged, yet splendid, terrain of the region from the comfort of a train. You can also discover a scenic waterfall within walking distance from Strahan Harbour, check out the ‘Iron Blow Lookout’ during the epic 99-bends drive from Queenstown, get a surge of adrenaline with white-water rafting on the King River or even take the quad for a spin on the ‘Henty Dunes’.

There are just so many great things to do in Strahan, and you don’t wanna miss it. If visiting Tasmania is on the cards and you’re planning to venture past Hobart, this town is a must!

Gordon River (Strahan) Cruise Experiences

Gordon River cruises

7 Cruises

From $149

Private Charter

1 Cruise

From $2000

Know Before You Go

Transport

There are no rideshare or taxi services in Strahan, and public transport is very limited. The best way to get around is by hiring a car, with several car rental companies operating in the area.

Strahan has a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up fresh seafood delicacies, locally-sourced dishes and more.

Accommodation here ranges from waterfront hotels, B&Bs, eco-lodges and holiday park stays that are located close to the Macquarie Harbour and Gordon River.

Australia-wide holidays:
1 Jan (Thu) – New Year’s Day
26 Jan (Mon) – Australia Day
3 Apr (Fri) – Good Friday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
25 Apr (Sat) – Anzac Day
8 Jun (Mon) – King’s Birthday
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday

Tasmanian observed holidays
9 Feb (Mon) – Royal Hobart Regatta
9 Mar (Mon) – Eight Hours Day
7 Apr (Tue) – Easter Tuesday *
2 Nov (Mon) – Recreation Day

Regional observed holidays
7 Jan (Wed) – Devonport Cup
25 Feb (Wed) – Launceston Cup
3 Mar (Tue) – King Island Show
8 May (Fri) – AGFEST
2 Oct (Fri) – Burnie Show
8 Oct (Thu) – Royal Launceston Show
16 Oct (Fri) – Flinders Island Show
22 Oct (Thu) – Royal Hobart Show
27 Nov (Fri) – Devonport Show

*Easter Tuesday is a restricted public holiday in Tasmania. Observed by some awards/agreements and the State Public Service.

The best time to visit the Gordon River is during summer (December to February), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their lushest. Strahan, the gateway to the river, is a year-round destination—each season offering its own charm.

For a quieter experience and better deals, consider visiting in autumn (March to May), when the crowds thin and the misty beauty of Tasmania’s west coast really shines.

No matter when you go, pack plenty of layers—this part of Tasmania is famous for its unpredictable weather.

TASMANIA SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026

Term 1: 18 April to 3 May
Term 2: 11 July to 26 July
Term 3: 3 October to 18 October
Term 4: 19 December - (end date not confirmed)

Strahan Solstice (June)
The Strahan Solstice Festival is an annual winter event to celebrate the longest nights of the year on the Tasmanian West Coast. It is part of the larger “Light Up The West” event. The festival includes light installations, immersive experiences like storytelling and other activities. It is primarily located along the Strahan Esplanade and Strahan Village.

Unconformity Festival (October)
The Unconformity Festival is a biennial contemporary arts festival held in October in Queenstown, Tasmania. It features site-specific performances, installations, and discussions that explore art and the region’s unique geology. The festival also includes a marquee football match, a hike at the start of the festival and an art trail.

Gordon River (Strahan) Tourist Information

The nearest emergency and hospital services are St Helens District Hospital and the Spring Bay Community & Health Centre.

Call 000 immediately for emergencies requiring police, fire, or ambulance services.