Hell's Gates

Hell's Gates is the narrow entrance channel to Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania's West Coast near Strahan. The constricted passage between Macquarie Heads and Entrance Island connects the harbour to the Southern Ocean and is known for strong tidal currents. Named by convicts for its hazardous navigation, it features historic lights including Cape Sorell Lighthouse and Entrance Island Lighthouse and is primarily viewed on harbour and Gordon River cruises from Strahan.

Visitors typically experience Hell's Gates from the water on a cruise from Strahan through Macquarie Harbour. Expect views of the narrow channel flanked by Macquarie Heads, Entrance Island and Bonnet Island, with open ocean swells, strong currents, and historic lighthouses. There is no land-based visitor precinct at the channel itself; the experience is a scenic boat passage with commentary, photography opportunities and views of the harbour entrance and surrounding coastline.

Hell's Gates was named by convicts and mariners in the early 19th century for the perilous navigation through the narrow, shallow entrance to Macquarie Harbour. The harbour was the site of the Macquarie Harbour Penal Station on Sarah Island (1822-1833). To aid navigation, Entrance Island light was established and Cape Sorell Lighthouse was built in 1899 on the southern headland, remaining an important aid to navigation.

The channel is a significant maritime heritage landmark for Tasmania's West Coast, symbolizing the isolation and hardship associated with the former penal settlement and the ongoing seafaring history of Macquarie Harbour. It remains a focal point of local cruise interpretation and coastal heritage.