Gordon River Cruises

Gordon River Cruises is a sightseeing cruise operator based at Strahan Wharf on Tasmania's west coast. It operates daily cruises across Macquarie Harbour and up the Gordon River into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Notable for access to otherwise inaccessible temperate rainforest, Sarah Island convict settlement, and Heritage Landing, it combines wilderness scenery, Huon pine forest and guided heritage interpretation.

Visitors board the purpose-built vessel Spirit of the Wild at Strahan Wharf for a 6-hour guided cruise. The journey crosses Macquarie Harbour past Hells Gates, cruises the Gordon River through World Heritage-listed temperate rainforest, with a guided walk at Heritage Landing on a boardwalk among Huon pines, and a guided tour of Sarah Island historic convict settlement. Onboard includes live commentary, indoor and outdoor viewing decks, and a chef-prepared lunch.

The cruise visits Sarah Island, site of Tasmania's oldest convict settlement operating from 1822 to 1833 for secondary punishment, and the Gordon River area associated with Huon pine logging and shipbuilding since the early 19th century. The region later became central to conservation of Tasmania's wild rivers and rainforests.

The Gordon River lies within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognised for its natural and Aboriginal cultural values. Heritage Landing showcases ancient Huon pines, endemic to Tasmania, and Sarah Island interprets convict history and early colonial industry.