Wild, gorgeous scenery & wildlife. Comfortable & quite boat, and friendly and fantastic crew. Couldn't recommend any higher.
6Hr Gordon River Spirit Of The Wild Cruise - Main Deck Central
4.5
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Duration: 6hr
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Guaranteed refund in 3 days
Eligible refunds processed within 3 days
Customer Reviews
My wife and I our adult daughter and her husband spent a delightful day on this iconic trip. The boat was excellent, comfortable and extremely quiet when cruising on the river itself
About
This award-winning Gordon River Cruise gets you onto the water earlier than any other operator, giving you the first and best chance to witness the Gordon River’s legendary mirror-like reflections before anyone else stirs them. Departing at 8:30am, the ‘Spirit of the Wild’ cruises in whisper mode across Macquarie Harbour and up the Gordon River to explore Tasmania’s UNESCO-listed wilderness.
The Main Deck Central seat is your base for the day, with the freedom to move through the vessel and step out onto the open-air decks whenever the wilderness demands a closer look. Same extraordinary experience as other seats on board, but the best value entry to an unforgettable day.
Spirit of the Wild Cruise Route:
The cruise first takes you past Hells Gates, the narrow, wind-battered entrance where Macquarie Harbour opens into the wild Southern Ocean. The name was coined by convicts who were transported by ship from the mainland, knowing the horrors that awaited them on Sarah Island.
Cruising past the fish farms at Liberty Point, you’ll see where Atlantic Salmon and Ocean Trout are raised in pristine Tasmanian waters. You’ll find the same salmon as the hero dish of your chef-prepared buffet lunch later in the day.
The Gordon River is next, and it is worth every superlative. Deep inside the Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, the river’s surface becomes a flawless mirror of the ancient forests that tower over it. These famous Gordon River reflections have been a highlight of this cruise for thousands of visitors.
Next, you will go ashore at Heritage Landing and walk the elevated boardwalk through the cool temperate rainforest where centuries old Huon Pines stand quiet and tall.
The final stop is Sarah Island, and it delivers in a way no other Gordon River experience does. Australia’s most feared convict settlement unfolds through the eyes of expert guides whose narratives make the brutal history of the region feel utterly alive. This becomes more vivid through character-based videos streamed on board, where you will meet the likes of Captain James Kelly and Lady Jane Franklin.
Back on board, you can enjoy a buffet lunch with some of Tasmania’s finest produce. Fresh Atlantic salmon from Macquarie Harbour, accompanied by a selection of seasonal salads and hot dishes that reflect the rich food culture of Tasmania. As the spectacular wilderness scenery drifts past your window, it is a dining experience that feels distinctly Tasmanian in every sense.
As Strahan Wharf comes back into view by 2:30pm, the landscapes, stories and stillness of the Gordon River leave a lasting impression. Few experiences bring together Tasmania’s wilderness, heritage and local flavours so seamlessly, making this one of the most rewarding day cruises.
NOTE: Evening Departures (Dec–Feb): Additional evening departures operate during the peak season. Choose your departure at the time of booking.
The Main Deck Central seat is your base for the day, with the freedom to move through the vessel and step out onto the open-air decks whenever the wilderness demands a closer look. Same extraordinary experience as other seats on board, but the best value entry to an unforgettable day.
Spirit of the Wild Cruise Route:
The cruise first takes you past Hells Gates, the narrow, wind-battered entrance where Macquarie Harbour opens into the wild Southern Ocean. The name was coined by convicts who were transported by ship from the mainland, knowing the horrors that awaited them on Sarah Island.
Cruising past the fish farms at Liberty Point, you’ll see where Atlantic Salmon and Ocean Trout are raised in pristine Tasmanian waters. You’ll find the same salmon as the hero dish of your chef-prepared buffet lunch later in the day.
The Gordon River is next, and it is worth every superlative. Deep inside the Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, the river’s surface becomes a flawless mirror of the ancient forests that tower over it. These famous Gordon River reflections have been a highlight of this cruise for thousands of visitors.
Next, you will go ashore at Heritage Landing and walk the elevated boardwalk through the cool temperate rainforest where centuries old Huon Pines stand quiet and tall.
The final stop is Sarah Island, and it delivers in a way no other Gordon River experience does. Australia’s most feared convict settlement unfolds through the eyes of expert guides whose narratives make the brutal history of the region feel utterly alive. This becomes more vivid through character-based videos streamed on board, where you will meet the likes of Captain James Kelly and Lady Jane Franklin.
Back on board, you can enjoy a buffet lunch with some of Tasmania’s finest produce. Fresh Atlantic salmon from Macquarie Harbour, accompanied by a selection of seasonal salads and hot dishes that reflect the rich food culture of Tasmania. As the spectacular wilderness scenery drifts past your window, it is a dining experience that feels distinctly Tasmanian in every sense.
As Strahan Wharf comes back into view by 2:30pm, the landscapes, stories and stillness of the Gordon River leave a lasting impression. Few experiences bring together Tasmania’s wilderness, heritage and local flavours so seamlessly, making this one of the most rewarding day cruises.
NOTE: Evening Departures (Dec–Feb): Additional evening departures operate during the peak season. Choose your departure at the time of booking.
- 6hr Gordon River Cruise aboard ‘Spirit of the Wild’
- Main Deck Central seating
- Guided walking tour of Sarah Island
- Guided Heritage Landing boardwalk
- Unique interpretation of river history through character-based videos
- Chef-prepared buffet lunch with Tassie produce
- Dedicated guides to talk you through this adventure
- Drinks available for purchase from cash bar on the Main Deck; EFTPOS and credit card accepted
- Please Note: National Park Pass is required; purchase separately via Parks & Wildlife Tasmania
- Evening Departures (Dec–Feb): Additional evening departures operate during the peak season. Choose your departure at the time of booking
- First access to Gordon River; the best opportunity to see the famous mirror-like reflections before other vessels
- Exclusive videos with character-based interpretation; meet historical figures like Capt. James Kelly and Lady Jane Franklin
- Step ashore on Sarah Island for a guided tour of Australia’s most feared and fascinating convict settlement
- Explore Heritage Landing walking through UNESCO-listed rainforest and stand among the oldest Huon Pines on earth
- Award-winning cruise with a chef-prepared Tasmanian buffet lunch served on board
- Adult $165
- Child $80
- Family $345
Main Wharf at 24 The Esplanade, Strahan
You can collect the boarding pass on the Esplanade the day before or by 8.15am on the morning of your cruise.
Google Maps - CLICK HERE
You can collect the boarding pass on the Esplanade the day before or by 8.15am on the morning of your cruise.
Google Maps - CLICK HERE
- 8:00 am: Check-in at Main Wharf, 24 The Esplanade, Strahan. Collect boarding pass by 8:15am, or the afternoon prior.
- 8:30 am: Depart Strahan Wharf aboard the 33m catamaran.
- 9:00 am: Hell's Gates, the narrow passage where the Southern Ocean meets Macquarie Harbour
- 9:30 am: Cruise past the fish farms of Macquarie Harbour, where Atlantic Salmon and Ocean Trout are raised in pristine Tasmanian waters
- 10:00 am: Enter the Gordon River and be the first to see the famous mirror-like reflections
- 10:45 am: Heritage Landing; walk the elevated boardwalk through ancient rainforests and stand amidst Huon Pines
- 12:00 pm: Chef-prepared Tasmanian buffet lunch served on board. EFTPOS available at the bar
- 1:00 pm: Sarah Island; guided walking tour of Australia's most feared convict settlement, brought to life through character-based interpretation
- 2:00 pm: Re-board and cruise back toward Strahan
- 2:30 pm: Return to Strahan Wharf
Main Deck Central is the entry-level, best-value seating option.
All passengers have the same cruise itinerary, guides and stops regardless of seating tier.
Main Deck Central (this package): Enjoy comfortable allocated seating on the main deck with buffet lunch and full access to the vessel’s viewing areas and outdoor decks.
Main Deck Window (see alternate package): A guaranteed main deck window seat with buffet lunch and full access to the vessel’s viewing areas and outdoor decks.
Premier Upper Deck – VIP Experience (see alternate package): The ultimate Gordon River experience, featuring premium upper deck seating, access to a private viewing deck, morning tea, canapés, long table lunch and an open bar.
All passengers have the same cruise itinerary, guides and stops regardless of seating tier.
Main Deck Central (this package): Enjoy comfortable allocated seating on the main deck with buffet lunch and full access to the vessel’s viewing areas and outdoor decks.
Main Deck Window (see alternate package): A guaranteed main deck window seat with buffet lunch and full access to the vessel’s viewing areas and outdoor decks.
Premier Upper Deck – VIP Experience (see alternate package): The ultimate Gordon River experience, featuring premium upper deck seating, access to a private viewing deck, morning tea, canapés, long table lunch and an open bar.
- Cancellation requests must be submitted via email to help@australiancruisegroup.com.au
- Refunds, where applicable, will be processed to the original payment method.
- No correspondence will be entertained for cancellations made after the free-cancellation period.
- A ‘no-show’ refers to any confirmed passenger who fails to board the vessel prior to scheduled departure. Please note, we make every effort to ensure our cruises depart on time. It is highly recommended that all passengers be ready for boarding 15 minutes prior to the stated time.
- An individual booking is defined as all bookings having less than 10 passengers on a single e-ticket. Individual bookings require full payment at time of booking.
- Up to 4 days prior: Full refund
- Within 3 days: 100% cancellation fee
- Group bookings are defined as all bookings for 10 or more passengers on a single E-ticket. Group bookings can be made with a partial payment of 20% as deposit. The balance amount must be paid 7 days before the cruise date.
- Up to 7 days prior: Full refund
- Within 6 days: 100% cancellation fee
- Dedicated seat spaces for guests who would like to bring a wheelchair to use as a seat; wheelchair storage is also available
- Easy ramp access
- Gender neutral/equal-access toilets on the Main Deck
- Pram access, pram storage and baby change facilities available
- Both land excursions allow for easy disembarkation. Heritage Landing’s raised non-slip boardwalk is accessible, with the exception of a small set of steps that can be navigated around. Sarah Island also offers an accessible experience
- Our disabled seating provides amazing views and is located close to the equal access toilets via flat floor
Do I need a National Park Pass?
Yes. The cruise enters the UNESCO Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, so all passengers require a valid Tasmanian Parks Pass. These are available from Parks & Wildlife Tasmania at passes.parks.tas.gov.au.
What should I wear on the cruise?
West coast weather is very unpredictable. Bring a rain jacket, a warm layer for shore excursions and sturdy closed-toe footwear. Thongs, crocs and slip-on sandals are not suitable, as decks can become wet and slippery.
Will the cruise be cancelled in bad weather?
No. This catamaran is purpose-built for Tasmania’s west coast conditions and operates in all weather. The large, stable vessel handles whatever the Southern Ocean sends its way.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The vessel has dedicated wheelchair seating with uninterrupted views, easy ramp access, gender-neutral accessible toilets on the Main Deck, and pram storage and baby change facilities. Both shore excursions, Heritage Landing and Sarah Island, also offer accessible experiences.
Where do I park near the terminal?
All-day Pay & Display parking is available 250m from the terminal. Bring coins to the value of approximately $10. Note: the area directly in front of the terminal is a bus stop, and parking is not permitted there at any time.
What makes this cruise different from other Gordon River operators?
Gordon River Cruises departs earlier than any other operator, giving passengers first access to the Gordon River and the best possible conditions to witness the famous mirror-like reflections. The cruise also offers exclusive character-based interpretation with historical figures brought to life by expert guides.
Yes. The cruise enters the UNESCO Franklin Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, so all passengers require a valid Tasmanian Parks Pass. These are available from Parks & Wildlife Tasmania at passes.parks.tas.gov.au.
What should I wear on the cruise?
West coast weather is very unpredictable. Bring a rain jacket, a warm layer for shore excursions and sturdy closed-toe footwear. Thongs, crocs and slip-on sandals are not suitable, as decks can become wet and slippery.
Will the cruise be cancelled in bad weather?
No. This catamaran is purpose-built for Tasmania’s west coast conditions and operates in all weather. The large, stable vessel handles whatever the Southern Ocean sends its way.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The vessel has dedicated wheelchair seating with uninterrupted views, easy ramp access, gender-neutral accessible toilets on the Main Deck, and pram storage and baby change facilities. Both shore excursions, Heritage Landing and Sarah Island, also offer accessible experiences.
Where do I park near the terminal?
All-day Pay & Display parking is available 250m from the terminal. Bring coins to the value of approximately $10. Note: the area directly in front of the terminal is a bus stop, and parking is not permitted there at any time.
What makes this cruise different from other Gordon River operators?
Gordon River Cruises departs earlier than any other operator, giving passengers first access to the Gordon River and the best possible conditions to witness the famous mirror-like reflections. The cruise also offers exclusive character-based interpretation with historical figures brought to life by expert guides.
Boarding Pass Collection: Collect from the Main Wharf at 24 The Esplanade, Strahan. Available the afternoon prior, or by 8:15am on the morning of departure.
National Park Pass: Required for all passengers. Purchase from Parks & Wildlife Tasmania at passes.parks.tas.gov.au prior to departure.
What to Wear: Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is essential. Bring a rain jacket and a warm layer; west coast weather changes quickly and temperatures drop on the river.
Accessibility: Dedicated wheelchair seating with unobstructed views, easy ramp access, gender-neutral accessible toilets, pram storage and baby change facilities on board. Both shore excursions are accessible.
Payment on Board: EFTPOS and all major credit cards accepted at the bar. No need to carry cash.
Infants: Infants (0–3 years) cruise free of charge when seated on a parent or guardian's lap and do not require a dedicated seat.
Cancellation Policy: Full refund up to 72 hours (local time) before cruise date. After 72 hours: 100% cancellation fee applies
National Park Pass: Required for all passengers. Purchase from Parks & Wildlife Tasmania at passes.parks.tas.gov.au prior to departure.
What to Wear: Sturdy, closed-toe footwear is essential. Bring a rain jacket and a warm layer; west coast weather changes quickly and temperatures drop on the river.
Accessibility: Dedicated wheelchair seating with unobstructed views, easy ramp access, gender-neutral accessible toilets, pram storage and baby change facilities on board. Both shore excursions are accessible.
Payment on Board: EFTPOS and all major credit cards accepted at the bar. No need to carry cash.
Infants: Infants (0–3 years) cruise free of charge when seated on a parent or guardian's lap and do not require a dedicated seat.
Cancellation Policy: Full refund up to 72 hours (local time) before cruise date. After 72 hours: 100% cancellation fee applies
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