which gordon river cruise is best

Which Gordon River cruise is best: Red boat or grey boat?

Finding it hard to decide which Gordon River cruise is best?

Keep reading for a side-by-side comparison, and tips for choosing the best option for your Tasmania road trip – including a very handy Gordon River cruise discount!

This page contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Read our full disclosure policy  here .

• Why is the Gordon River so special?
• Which Gordon River cruise – The red boat or the grey boat?
• Tassie owned?
• Things to See
• Ticket Prices

Meal Options

• Where to Stay
• Gordon River Cruise Discount Code
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When I think about the most common questions we get in our Facebook Group, this would have to be near the top…

“Which Gordon River cruise is best – the red boat or the grey boat?”

In fact, I’ve seen it so many times that I felt inspired to create the meme below 🤣

It is a serious question though, and considering the impact on your budget it can make a huge difference to your holiday in Tasmania – especially for families who could easily fork out a lot of money on features that will honestly make very little difference to their experience.

As you might expect, the answer isn’t clear cut.

Everyone has different preferences for how they like to travel – your budget, the number of people you will be travelling with, whether you are a family with children, and many other factors.

And this is exactly why I hear this question so often – it isn’t easy for travellers to do a side-by-side comparison and choose the best of these Strahan cruises for your specific needs and preferences.

I’ve reviewed both of the options in comprehensive detail, helping you to simplify the decision making process and to get you on the water exploring what would have to be one of Tasmania’s premier natural attractions in no time at all.

What things are exactly the same?

How are they different?

And regardless of which company you choose, why a cruise on the Gordon River and Macquarie Harbour is an absolute must!

Don’t have time to read the full guide?

This graphic shows you how they compare…

If you want to explore the differences in more detail, keep reading, because in the next few sections I take you through each of these categories in heaps of detail, providing you with all the information you need to choose the best option for your Tassie holiday.

What is the Gordon River and why is it so special?

As someone who grew up in the hot, dry oven we know as Adelaide, it was the lush rainforests and tangled spiderweb of creeks, rivulets and rivers of Tasmania that made a huge impact on my early memories of this island I now call home.

But you know what?

It wasn’t until I visited the West Coast and experienced a Gordon River cruise in Tasmania that I realised just how unique this region is.

Icy, tannin-stained waters running silent and deep, lined with ancient Huon Pines older than the Roman Empire.

Primordial rainforests – a tapestry of emerald man-ferns, colourful funghi, and moss-draped branches dripping with life.

Dark, brooding silences, tall timber creaking in the wind, and vivid rainbows springing to life over dancing waterfalls.

The urgent and unforgettable call of a solitary currawong, scratching in the undergrowth. Black cockatoos surging overhead with a cheeky screech, heralding rain to come.

For many years archaeologists believed this remote, rugged corner of the world to be so inhospitable that it was simply incapable of supporting human settlement – but that was until the discovery of the remarkable kutikina cave , less than 50 years ago.

This limestone cavern on the banks of the Franklin River – a short distance upstream of the Gordon – surprised everyone when it was found to have been ‘home’ for the world’s most southerly humans during the last Ice Age, more than 20,000 years ago!

It was no wonder our colonial ancestors saw Macquarie Harbour, and Sarah Island in particular, as being the ideal location for Tasmania’s first penal settlement in the early 1800s.

Remote and rugged, the harshest of climates, impenetrable forests, and seemingly inescapable, it was deemed the ideal punishment for repeat offenders.

Fast forward 150 years and again we find the Gordon and Franklin Rivers in the spotlight – as the Tasmanian government sought to expand its hydroelectric scheme by damming the lower reaches of both the Gordon and Franklin rivers.

As someone who has had the privilege of cruising up the Gordon River, it is incredible to hear this pristine location described by the Liberal Premier of the day, Robin Gray, as:

“…nothing but a brown ditch, leech-ridden and unattractive to the majority of people…”

It was no wonder so many thousands of Tasmanians took a stand, protested, and saved these rivers for future generations – and I can’t be more thankful for their efforts.

Layer upon layer upon layer… a cruise up the Gordon River is like stepping back in time, and it would have to be one of my favourite tours I have experienced anywhere in the world, let alone Tasmania!

Red boat or grey boat – What’s the difference?

The two most popular ways of exploring Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River are by booking a cruise with either World Heritage Cruises (aka the ‘Red Boat’) or Gordon River Cruises (aka the ‘Grey Boat’).

Before I dive into the detail, let’s get one thing straight.

You can’t go wrong with either company! So if you can’t get a seat on your preferred cruise, please don’t stress, because you will still have an amazing experience.

But at the same time, while the main sights and attractions provided by both companies are essentially the same, there are some important differences that could take your experience from a simple ‘wow’ to ‘OMGTHATSFREAKINGAMAZINGWHENCANIGOAGAIN?!!!’ 🤣

Before we start, it is important that I provide full disclosure of the partnership I entered into with World Heritage Cruises in 2021. Throughout this guide I have been as balanced as possible in presenting the different aspects of each cruise, highlighting where each company offers a point of difference that may be of interest to you.

I pride myself on presenting my community with an honest perspective in all my articles. You are probably spending a lot of money to come all this way, so it is important to me that you have the best information available to help with the planning process and to ensure you don’t get any unwelcome surprises.

With that in mind, after doing all my research there was only one company that I felt was the perfect fit for the Lap of Tasmania – which is why I have chosen to partner with World Heritage Cruises , providing you a very generous 10% OFF all ticket prices when you use my LAPOFTAS code to book your cruise 😊

That’s enough intro… let’s get this review started!

Tassie owned and operated?

Winner : World Heritage Cruises (the ‘Red Boat’)

Once upon a time, as a cash-strapped young lad I wouldn’t have even given this a thought.

But over the years as the Lap of Tasmania has grown and I have gained a better appreciation for the unique challenges faced by the Tasmanian tourism industry, I find myself wanting to provide as much support as possible for our locally owned and operated tours and attractions.

Sometimes this means paying a premium – but not this time (as I show you further down).

You see, both companies are locally operated, providing much-needed employment opportunities on Tasmania’s west coast – but only World Heritage Cruises (the ‘Red Boat’) is also Tassie-owned.

There is a rich ‘West Coaster’ history behind World Heritage Cruises that you don’t see very often these days. It all started way back in 1896 with the Grining family – some of the region’s first colonial settlers – and their transport of passengers and cargo around Macquarie Harbour and up the Gordon River.

More than 100 years and five generations later and they are still there, showcasing this stunning part of Tasmania to ten’s of thousands of guests every year.

On the other hand, Gordon River Cruises (the ‘Grey Boat’), started out in the 70’s as a locally owned tourism business, but in 2021 it was acquired by the NRMA – a motoring group based in NSW/ACT.

It has been good to see NRMA investing in Tasmania’s tourism industry, and they also employ many locals who are equally as passionate about showing off the Gordon River to their guests, but I would much rather see these services staying in Tasmanian hands.

Things to see and do on your Gordon River cruise

Winner : Both – It’s a tie

When you look closely at the itineraries provided by both companies you will see that they are essentially the same.

Macquarie Harbour, the Gordon River, Hell’s Gates, a guided tour of Sarah Island, and a walk through the forest at Heritage Landing are all included – whichever company you choose.

And when the weather is calm, both companies also provide an extension out through Hell’s Gates to Cape Sorell Lighthouse.

It’s only a small difference, but World Heritage Cruises time their cruise to finish just before the free sawmill demonstration at Morrison’s Huon Pine Saw Mill (right next to the dock where you get off the boat), making this a convenient way to finish your day.

Gordon River Cruise Prices and Inclusions

I know a lot of travellers I speak with worry about the cost of a cruise up the Gordon River, but let me reassure you that it will be worth every cent!

In saying that, a comparison between the various rates shows that there are some significant differences in Gordon River cruise prices between both companies.

The upshot?

If seeing the Gordon River is your #1 priority, then World Heritage Cruises represents the best value across all ticket types – whether that is adults, children or families – and that is before you use my LAPOFTAS code for a generous 10% discount on full-price tickets!

They also offer a very welcome seniors discount and a family package (noting that these can’t be combined with the Lap of Tasmania discount).

You can click here to book your tickets with World Heritage Cruises .

Where Gordon River Cruises positions itself differently is in its appeal for travellers who would like unlimited alcoholic drinks as part of their cruise package and some extra menu items for their lunch – but of course this comes with a sharp increase in your ticket price.

The tables below show you the different pricing tiers and inclusions for each company (for the 2022-23 cruising season) for a seat located either in the centre of the boat or next to a window, and on either the lower deck or the upper deck.

These prices are likely to change over time, so please check their websites for the latest info.

Main Deck Prices

Important note for families :

• World Heritage Cruises allows children under 5 years to cruise for free. However, Gordon River Cruises only allows children under 3 years to travel free
• A ‘Family’ ticket includes 2 ‘Adult’ tickets and up to 3 ‘Child’ tickets

The ‘Main Deck’ on both boats is where you will find the lowest prices for both companies. This deck is closer to the waterline and for that reason the views aren’t quite as good as on the ‘Upper Deck’.

There are two types of seat – a ‘Centre’ seat or a ‘Window’ seat. The window seats on both boats provide essentially the same views, and are grouped in pairs (good for couples).

However, if you have a family of 4 or more, or you are travelling in a large group, then I recommend having a look at the ‘Centre’ seats provided by World Heritage Cruises , because they have a table in the middle and are perfect for group conversations and keeping an eye on children.

Gordon River Cruises does provide a few seats with tables, but nowhere near as many as World Heritage Cruises .

Another good thing to know is that World Heritage Cruises allow people who have bought a ‘Main Deck’ ticket to walk through all areas of the ‘Upper Deck’ and to get the same views as those who have purchased an ‘Upper Deck’ ticket (but of course you can’t sit down or have your meal up there because your allocated seats are down on the ‘Main Deck’).

Gordon River Cruises also allows you to walk up to the ‘Upper Deck’, however you won’t be allowed to access the private viewing deck that is for exclusive use by ‘Upper Deck’ ticket holders.

Upper Deck Prices

As you would expect, the ‘Upper Deck’ on both boats is more expensive than the ‘Main Deck’, but it varies a lot between the two companies.

For World Heritage Cruises the small price increase reflects the better views you get from the comfort of your own leather seat.

However, the huge price increase for Gordon River Cruises is only a little bit about the views and leather seats, and a whole lot about the open bar, and some extra lunch inclusions (as I discuss in more detail below). You also receive access to a viewing deck that is only accessible by ‘Upper Deck’ ticket holders.

Whichever company you choose, all seats provided on the ‘Upper Deck’ are grouped in pairs, making this a better options for couples.

Winner : Gordon River Cruises

A cruise on the Gordon River takes around 6 hours in total, which means that lunch is included in your ticket price for both companies.

It is fantastic to see both companies sourcing as many ingredients as possible from local suppliers, including their smoked salmon and freshly baked bread.

World Heritage Cruises provides all their guests with individually packed, rustic timber lunch trays, including smoked salmon, cold meats, salad, Tassie cheese and biscuits, and locally baked bread. One of the good things about this approach is that you don’t have to worry about queuing for your meal, and in light of our covid issues over the last couple of years I feel it is a sensible way forward (ie. no breathing down each other’s necks while waiting in line, and no sharing of buffet utensils etc.).

Gordon River Cruises take a different approach, providing their guests with a buffet lunch. Guests on the ‘Main Deck’ enjoy smoked salmon, salad, and locally baked bread, however their menu also includes some extra protein/salad options – but you don’t receive any Tasmanian cheese and biscuits.

Gordon River Cruises also provides some more gourmet options for ‘Upper Deck’ ticket holders, such as canapes in the morning, additional menu items like pickled squid or steamed ocean trout, desserts, and Tasmanian cheese and crackers.

Both boats have a couple of bars on board where you can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, however Gordon River Cruises also provides their ‘Upper Deck’ guests with an open-bar of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks – hence the extra cost.

Families : It is worth noting that the ‘Upper Deck’ ticket price with Gordon River Cruises is the same, regardless of whether you sit in the centre or at a window seat, and importantly, whether you are an adult or a child. Children won’t get the same benefit of the ‘open bar’ as an adult, making it a potentially expensive exercise to keep your family together on the same deck.

Cruising calendar and times

The core offering from both companies is a daily morning cruise, lasting around 6 hours in total.

In summer, from late-December through to mid-January, both companies also add an extra afternoon cruise to their schedule (where you receive dinner instead of lunch).

Gordon River Cruises is first into the harbour, leaving at 8:30am. World Heritage Cruises leaves 30mins later, at 9:00am.

I’ve heard some people say that the earlier cruise is better for getting the mirror-flat reflections on the water, but in my experience I’ve not noticed any marked difference between the two (and I like an extra 30 minutes sleep-in 😂).

It is important to note that both companies take time off in winter to do maintenance on their boats and to get them in perfect condition for the next season. If you are planning on visiting in July or August then please check their website to ensure you don’t get caught.

Where to stay for your Gordon River Cruise

Both cruises depart in the morning from the main wharf in Strahan, meaning Strahan is the perfect place to stay.

There are plenty of great options to choose from for all budgets and styles of travel. These are my favourites:

• Budget – Strahan Village (Strahan)
• 🎖️ B&B – Harrison House B&B (Strahan) ← Special Lap of Tasmania offer, click here for details
• Luxe – Wheelhouse Apartments (Strahan)
• Camping – Big4 Strahan Holiday Retreat (Strahan)

Gordon River cruise discount / promo code

Is it possible to find a Gordon River cruise discount or promo code? You bet!

World Heritage Cruises Discount

I love what the team at World Heritage Cruises are doing to showcase Tassie’s West Coast and to support the Tasmanian tourism industry.

They are also a proud Friend of the Lap of Tasmania , and to say ‘thank you’ for your support they are providing a very generous 10% discount on all their cruises when you use my LAPOFTAS discount code!

Click here to book your tour with World Heritage Cruises

10% Discount Code: LAPOFTAS

Gordon River Cruises Discount

NSW/ACT residents who are also members of NRMA can receive a 15% discount. You can’t book online though, and you will need to ring them on the phone to get them to arrange it for you.

Final thoughts on which Gordon River cruise is best?

I hope you have found this guide helpful in learning more about what you can expect to experience on a cruise up the Gordon River, and some of the differences in what each of the major cruise companies is providing to visitors.

As you can probably tell, I have a big soft spot for World Heritage Cruises , especially considering that they are Tassie-owned and operated and are big supporters of the Lap of Tasmania .

But as I said right at the start, you can’t go wrong with either company. Because at the heart of both tour options is the mighty Gordon River. A slowly meandering, utterly gorgeous waterway that will leave its mark on your heart forever 😊

Happy and safe travels,

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

I sometimes suffer from motion sickness – should I be worried?

Good news! Unless you are extremely sensitive, it is very unlikely that you will get sick. Personally, I always find myself feeling a bit queasy when I go out onto the open water, but I didn’t feel a thing on my cruise up the Gordon. The twin-hull design of both boats is very stable, and because the harbour is sheltered there is hardly any swell at all to worry about.

Do I need to book ahead?

If you are visiting between December and May (summer/autumn peak), then I would be trying to book my tickets at least a few months in advance. Possibly even earlier for January. Demand drops away in winter and you should be fine leaving it to closer to the day, but I would still try to book at least 1-2 weeks ahead if possible.

Are the boats wheelchair accessible?

Yes! Both boats are wheelchair accessible, including bathroom facilities.

While on a cruise, can I go outside to get fresh air and to take photos?

Absolutely! Both boats have exterior deck options where you can soak up the sun, breathe in the salt tang, and grab some stunning photos.

Are there plenty of bathrooms on board?

Yes, both boats have excellent facilities on both decks, including wheelchair access.

Have I got time after a cruise to continue my road trip and drive to Cradle Mountain?

Yes! The tours finish around 2:30-3pm in the afternoon, and a non-stop drive from Strahan to Cradle Mountain will only take 2-2.5hrs (maybe a bit longer in a motorhome or towing a caravan). Please take it easy in winter, as the sun sets early and wildlife often cross the roads at dusk (and later).

Rain is forecast – will I still enjoy my cruise?

Unless it is torrential rain that is being forecast for most of the day, a trip up the Gordon River under grey skies is a real treat! Tassie’s west coast is renowned for its changeable weather patterns, and in this part of the island it makes for some really moody, atmospheric photography.

Travel planning resources

Tasmania’s remote location means there are internet ‘black spots’ across the island. 

A paper travel guide or map is the perfect backup, and I love the range from Lonely Planet.

Guide to Tasmania

Map of tasmania, road trip guide.

Andrew Strikis

Subscribe for road trip tips and advice!

We acknowledge and pay respect to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community as the traditional owners  and continuing custodians  of  this island lutruwita (Tasmania).

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Tasmania Explorer

Strahan Cruises Gordon River: Everything You Need To Know

A Strahan river cruise is one of the top experiences offered on the west coast of Tasmania. Sailing out of Strahan and up the Gordon River, these cruises let you get up close and personal with a UNESCO listed area and are a truly a phenomenal experience for anyone that has the opportunity to do one.

In addition to amazing scenery, these cruises let you get connected with the history and heritage of the area.

There are several Strahan boat cruises options available, each offering something different. To help plan your Strahan Tasmania river cruise, we’ve reviewed each of the options available.

Read about each of the Strahan boat tours below and pick the one that best suits you!

Click here for the latest prices.

Strahan Cruises – All Your Options For Gordon River Cruises

There are three options for your Strahan cruises. You can find a summary of them in the table below, including where you can buy Strahan boat cruise tickets.

Why Do A Strahan Wilderness Cruise?

Strahan cruises Tasmania are really well regarded for offering stunning scenery, and are one of the most unique ways to explore this area.

These cruises start as a Macquarie Harbour cruise from Strahan and sail into South West Wilderness National Park – a World Heritage listed national park where you’ll see huge Huon pines and a diverse cold climate rainforest. From seeing an ancient cold climate rainforest with rare and unique trees, to the famous reflections on the tannin stained water, Gordon River cruises have so much to offer.

In addition to this, Strahan river tours also include interesting walking tours with both history and nature, lunch or dinner (depending on the cruise) and an opportunity to relax and unwind.

They are truly a great experience!

Strahan Gordon River Cruises

One of the most popular cruises from Strahan is by Gordon River Cruises. These Strahan boat tours take you onboard an 34-metre catamaran, named Spirit of the Wild, and sail up the gorgeous Gordon River.

These Strahan tours take 6 hours, departing at 8:30am and returning at 2:30pm, and you’ll not only enjoy the serenity of the river but hop off and explore the best sites along the way.

With both audio and video commentary with characters like Captain James Kelly and Lady Jane Franklin, these tours feel special and personal. They depart from Macquarie Harbour and head through Hells Gate, where you’ll learn about its history and why it’s named such. From there, your Strahan harbour cruise will take you past some of the local salmon and trout farms before starting your journey up the Gordon River.

This is where these Strahan river tours really shine – Spirit of the Wild is nearly silent while sailing the Gordon River thanks to a hybrid system, so you can truly enjoy the peace and sounds of the river unimpeded. You are free to move around the vessel and go outside on your deck.

There are two walking tours on this cruise. The first stops at Heritage Landing, where you can take a walk through the ancient cold climate rainforest. The second is on Sarah Island, a penal settlement established before Port Arthur and filled with its own interesting stories.

There are two classes when booking – main deck or premier upper deck. On the main deck, you can choose a window or centre seat, a buffet lunch is included and there is a cash bar where you can buy drinks. Premier upper deck includes a more elaborate lunch with dessert and mid-morning canapes. The premier upper deck also offers an open bar with wine, beer, juice, tea and coffee all available and a private viewing deck. Infants under 2 are free on both decks.

This is a magnificent journey and a wonderful way to cruise Strahan and experience the peace of the Gordon River.

Click here to book it now.

World Heritage Cruises Strahan

Another popular Strahan Tasmania cruise is by Strahan World Heritage Cruises. This is a local, family owned business offering a truly eco-tourism experience.

These Strahan boat cruises depart from Macquarie Harbour at 9am and cover a total of 115km in 6 hours sailing up the stunning Gordon River, returning around 3pm.

You’ll first pass through Hells Gates, see the Aquaculture pens and then enjoy 2 hours of uninterrupted bliss sailing up the Gordon River. Skippers offer live commentary to bring the area to life. After this, an individually prepared gourmet lunch is served, without the need for queuing.

After lunch, your Heritage river cruise Strahan will stop at Sarah Island for a fascinating walking tour where you’ll leave intrigued by this small islands history, and then sail to Heritage Landing for a walking tour on the boardwalk before heading back to Strahan.

There are two ticket types on World Heritage Tours Strahan cruises – main deck, with both window and centre seating options, and upper deck, with both window and centre seating. Upper deck tickets are slightly more expensive and include either morning or afternoon tea. However all passengers are free to explore the entire vessel, so you can always enjoy the best views.

There is bar onboard serving both drinks and snacks for a fee, and some good news for families – children under 5 are free. This cruise does not run from mid July to mid August.

For a comfort, friendly and enriching experience, the Strahan World Heritage Cruise is a top choice.

Gordon River Evening Cruises

If you would like to try something different, consider a Gordon River Evening Cruise. This is one of the few Strahan Tasmania river cruise options that operates at night, and is available for booking only for a short while between late December and mid January, with additional sailings in mid February this year.

The offering is much the same as the aforementioned Strahan Gordon River Cruise, with two classes – main deck (with window or middle seating) and premier upper deck. Again, a cash bar is offered on the main deck and open bar on the premier deck. The upper deck is private and also has a lovely lounge area and viewing deck.

The cruise includes dinner in both classes with a fabulous chef prepared buffet dinner, with local produce featured heavily on the menu. The food it really a highlight of these tours in Strahan. Gordon River Cruises is also excellent for offering accessible cruising with different dietary needs accommodated for.

These tours depart at 3:30pm and take 6 hours, returning at around 9:30pm, and include the two walking tours – one at Heritage Landing and another at Sarah Island – with the characters and commentary that make a Gordon River Cruise so charming.

However, what does make this Strahan tour more appealing is the chance for even more stunning views over the Gordon River, as well as seeing the sunset over Hells Gates and having an even greater chance of seeing the famous reflections on the tannin dyed water.

Which Strahan Cruise Is Best?

Whilst there are similarities between all the Strahan cruises Tas offers, there are some important differences.

If you’re looking for a delicious lunch, relaxation or more exclusivity, you might consider Gordon River Cruises. Whether you choose the evening or morning cruise, the food is considered part of the experience. The boat is nearly silent whilst sailing up the Gordon River, and the premier upper deck is something really special.

Strahan Heritage Cruises may be a better choice if you’re looking for a more inclusive experience where you can explore the entire boat. It’s also a local and family owned business, and is a great option for families as children under 5 are free.

If you’re visiting during the short period where the Gordon River Evening Cruises, this would be a great option. Unfortunately these cruises only operate for a bit over 2 weeks, but are a wonderful way to experience the area at dusk. Plus, the dinner is a real highlight.

Final Words

We hope this guide has been helpful for you! We loved our cruise up the Gordon River and highly recommend everyone try it when exploring this part of Tasmania. No matter which Strahan cruise Tasmania you choose, you wont regret it.

Click here to book your Gordon River cruise now.

Looking for more information for your Strahan trip? Find our full guide to everything to do in Strahan here , our Strahan accommodation guide here and find our full West Coast Tasmania travel guide here .

Related posts:

By Shan Hutchinson

Shan grew up in Tasmania, moved away and then came back with her family twenty years later. She loves re-discovering her home state and sharing it with you here.

Gordon River Cruises

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Gordon River Cruise departing from Strahan

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GORDON RIVER CRUISES (Strahan) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

A Breathtaking Cruise on the Gordon River

On the day after our lovely train ride aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway , we took another exciting trip (there’s never time to be bored in Tasmania!). This time, we took a cruise along the Gordon River. 

The Gordon River is one of Tasmania’s most striking natural wonders, and a cruise along it is an absolute must-do while visiting Strahan. I was really looking forward to this cruise. When I first saw photos of the Gordon River, I decided that I had to see it for myself one day. Those mirror-perfect reflections looked simply amazing.

The Gordon River flows from the King Williams Ranges, down through Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness National Park, before entering Macquarie Harbour. The small town of Strahan is the gateway to the Gordon River. It’s also where you can take an unforgettable wilderness cruise. 

Our trip began at 8 am when we checked in at the Gordon River Cruises departure lounge. It’s located on the docks, right across from the Strahan Village hotel where we stayed. We were ready for our 6-hour cruise aboard the state of the art Spirit of the Wild catamaran. At 8.30 am, it was time to depart.

The Spirit of the Wild

The Spirit of the Wild is purpose-built for cruising in the sensitive environment of the UNESCO Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. This 33.8-metre long catamaran can carry up to 190 passengers. It has two different decks, the Main Deck and the Premier Upper Deck. 

But what makes the Spirit of the Wild extra special is the unique hybrid propulsion system that allows it to cruise quietly up the Gordon River on its electric motors, switching to its diesel motors when back in the harbour.

For a fabulous onboard experience, there are floor-to-ceiling windows, making it easy to enjoy the scenery from anywhere onboard.

We had Premier Upper Deck tickets and, when we came on board, morning tea was already being served with yummy pastries, fresh fruits, yoghurt and our choice of tea or coffee. This was the best way to start the day! 

Hell’s Gate

Once everyone was on board, the Spirit of the Wild slowly inched away from the dock and left Strahan behind. We headed out towards Hells Gates. Hells Gate is where Macquarie Harbour meets the open sea. This narrow mouth of the harbour was given its name by convicts who knew that they were headed towards hell on earth. This hell was “Sarah Island”, a dreaded penal colony that we visited later in the day.

This infamous passage is very shallow and can be quite turbulent when the sea is rough. But fortunately, we had a nice calm day and the Spirit of the Wild easily navigated the narrow passage out to sea.

From there, we could look back at that famous view that scared so many men back then. It looked stunning but then again, we weren’t on our way to the penitentiary! Instead, we were cruising onboard a gorgeous boat on a beautiful sunny day.

On our way to Hell’s Gate, we passed Bonnet Island, a small rocky island that is home to a colony of small penguins. We also passed close to Entrance island with its lighthouse.

After we visited Hell’s Gate, we returned to Macquarie Harbour, cruising past some aquaculture pens used to farm salmon and ocean trout. A lot of birds were happily hanging around, hoping it would be their lucky day. We were told we’d be getting some trout for lunch; something to look forward to!

The Gordon River

After Hells Gate and a glass of sparkling wine, we made it to the Gordon River. As soon as we entered the mouth of the Gordon River, our jaws dropped. It’s no surprise that this river is World Heritage-listed. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular.

As we started to cruise along the river, the Spirit of the Wild switched over to its electric motor. We could no longer hear the sound of the boat and could enjoy those amazing views in the most peaceful way possible.

As we headed further and further upriver, the reflections grew ever more stunning. The mirror-smooth surface of the water reflected both the blue cloud-speckled sky and the lush green rainforest that came right down to the river’s edge. It was a photographer’s dream and I couldn’t help but snap off dozens of photos.

There was no better place to enjoy this spectacle of nature than outside on the viewing deck. Not many people stayed inside; they all wanted to enjoy those views and the fresh Tasmanian air. It was truly breathtaking.

Heritage Landing Nature Walk 

Everyone onboard was raving about the views but it was time to hop off the boat for a while. We arrived at Heritage Landing. From there, we took a self-guided tour of Tasmania’s pristine temperate rainforest along a boardwalk leading away from the dock.

During the walk, we enjoyed seeing very old and tall Huon pines, Sassafras, Myrtle and other types of rainforest trees and plants. We learnt more about them thanks to the information boards that were located along the path.

After thirty minutes, the captain blew the horn and it was time to head back on board to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, made with fresh local produce, including salmon and trout; yum! Lunch was washed down with lovely, local Tasmanian wines. The day could not get any better!

Sarah Island

While we were lunching, the boat turned around and headed back down the river. The last stop on our Gordon River Cruise was a guided tour of Sarah Island.

Sarah Island is a small island in the middle of Macquarie harbour. Back in 1821, it was created as a penal colony, where repeat offenders were sent to be punished. Convicts that were sent to Sarah Island looked at it as entering hell, because of the tough conditions that they knew they would face there.

It was exceptionally difficult to escape from Sarah Island. It’s in the middle of the harbour and the harbour itself is surrounded by almost impenetrable wilderness. However, some convicts did manage to escape. One even navigated the wilderness so well that, when eventually recaptured, instead of being sent back to jail, he was hired as a surveyor by the government!

Sarah Island later ventured into shipbuilding and as many as 100 ships were built there with convict labour. It was easier to build the boats there using the excellent local timber (and cheap labour) than it was to try and ship the wood elsewhere.

Today, you can still see the remnants of the boatyard, where the ships were built and launched, along with other ruins from the settlement. If you choose to take the free guided tour, you’ll hear many stories about the island and its former inhabitants. The tour is well worth doing because the stories give more insight into the ruins that remain on the island.

Back to Strahan 

Back on board after an hour on Sarah Island, it was a forty-five-minute ride back to Strahan. Of course, local yummy cheeses were waiting for us. We grabbed another coffee, relaxed and enjoyed the harbour views.

Check out our video of our cruise

We made a short video with some of the highlights of our tour, which you can watch below. In particular, look out for the amazing reflections we came across as we toured the Gordon River.

How much is a trip to the Gordon River on the Spirit of the Wild? 

There are three seating options available on two different decks. The Main Deck offers central seats or window seats, while the Premier Upper Deck only offers window seating.

Main Deck Central: $140 adult, $69 child

Main Deck Window: $175 adult, $89 child

Premier Upper Deck: $285 adult, $285 child

They also offer discounts for families. Click here for more details on pricing . 

The main deck includes a buffet lunch and guests can purchase drinks from the bar. The Premier Upper Deck includes morning and afternoon tea, buffet lunch and has an open bar with all drinks included. It also has very comfortable leather recliners, with full-length windows and a private viewing deck and lounge area.

We travelled on the Premier Upper Deck and enjoyed every minute of it. If you can, pay extra to enjoy the river in style!

However, you can still enjoy the views no matter which deck you travel on. You are free to move around the boat and have access to all levels (except the Premier Upper Deck’s private viewing area), even with tickets for the main deck. So, if you’re travelling on a budget, you’ll have a fabulous time no matter which ticket you choose.

An absolute must-do Experience

A Gordon River Cruise is an absolute must while visiting the West Coast of Tasmania! This World Heritage-listed wilderness area is stunning and those reflections are incredible! We also enjoyed learning about the history of the area and our guided tour on Sarah Island made for a perfect day. You really shouldn’t visit Strahan without taking this cruise and while there, be sure to also ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a different perspective of this incredible wilderness.

Where to stay near the Gordon River?

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Strahan, you can use HotelsCombined to search across all the major accommodation websites. Find the best deal using the search boxes below.

Riding the West Coast Wilderness Railway

Our Three-Hour Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise

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[…] things to do – A Gordon River cruise is the must do, but it isn’t the only experience for the family to enjoy at Strahan. You’ll […]

Wow that brings back memories. We did the Gordon River Cruise back in early 2018 which was a big deal for us as budget travellers because we wouldn’t normally spend so much on one activity. We’d heard so many good things so did it and loved it.

Good write up. Just like being there again.

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Gordon River cruise - which one to choose? - Strahan Forum

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Gordon River cruise - which one to choose?

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It looks like there are currently 2 operators for the Gordon River cruise.

1) "Gordon River Cruise" (run by Pure Tasmania/Federal Group) - top ticket at $189 pp ;

2) "World Heritage Gordon River" (run by a local family for over 100 yrs) - top ticket at $130 pp (gold pass)

Yes, I've done both. To be honest I don't think there's much between them on the basis of content or quality.

However, I'm a fan of small business.

I've also been on the second and found everything excellent.

Thanks for your feedback everyone.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Strahan Hotels and Places to Stay

The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
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