Strahan: Gordon River Cruise & Sarah Island Guided Tour

Summary

Quiet river mornings ancient rainforest stories convict island walks

You’ll float deep into Tasmania’s ancient wilderness on a quiet Gordon River cruise from Strahan, step onto mossy rainforest boardwalks at Heritage Landing, share stories with local guides at Sarah Island’s haunting ruins, and enjoy chef-prepared Tasmanian lunch as the river drifts by outside. It’s peaceful but also full of history — something that lingers long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

We’d already been gliding along the Gordon River for a while before I realized how quiet everything had gotten. The boat — Spirit of the Wild, they call it — switched to electric motors, and suddenly even our voices felt too loud. There was this cool, earthy smell coming off the rainforest as we drifted past, and our guide (I think her name was Jo) pointed out these massive Huon pines that looked older than time. She told us some were over 2,000 years old. I tried to picture that — all those centuries just standing there in the mist.

The first stop was Heritage Landing. I stepped onto the boardwalk and my shoes made this soft thud on the damp wood. The air felt heavy but clean, like you could almost drink it. Jo showed us how the moss grows thick over everything — she joked it’s “nature’s carpet,” which made me laugh because I nearly slipped on it. Walking under those twisted branches, I kept thinking about how far we were from any city noise or phone signal. It was just rain drops tapping leaves and someone behind me whispering about leeches (I didn’t see any, for what it’s worth).

Back on board, lunch came out — local salmon, fresh bread still warm in my hands. The windows steamed up a little from everyone’s tea and coffee. We cruised toward Sarah Island next; I’d heard stories about Tasmania’s old convict sites but seeing it in person hit different. Our guide led us around crumbling stone walls and told these wild tales about escapes and punishments — some of them honestly brutal. There was a moment where she paused by an old cell doorway and just let us stand there in silence for a bit. That stuck with me more than anything she said.

On the way back to Strahan there were tastings of local honey and cheeses at the terminal (I may have gone back for seconds). The wind picked up outside but inside everyone seemed kind of dazed in that good way after a long day out somewhere special. I still think about those reflections on the river — so clear you almost can’t tell what’s real water or sky.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Gordon River Cruise and Heritage Tours

• Cruise quietly aboard Spirit of the Wild
• Listen to river stories from guides
• Step ashore at Heritage Landing
• Take interpretive tour of ancient rainforest
• Enjoy Chef-prepared lunch on the river
• Cruise to Sarah Island
• Explore Sarah Island with guide
• Return to Strahan
• Enjoy local produce tastings at terminal
• Browse souvenirs and explore Strahan waterfront

Top questions

How long is the Gordon River cruise from Strahan?

The cruise is a full-day experience departing from Strahan with multiple stops including Heritage Landing and Sarah Island.

Is lunch included on the Gordon River cruise?

Yes, a chef-prepared buffet lunch is included during your cruise along the river.

Can you visit Sarah Island during this tour?

Yes, there is a guided walking tour of Sarah Island included as part of the itinerary.

Is the Spirit of the Wild boat wheelchair accessible?

The main deck is fully wheelchair accessible; however, motor scooters are not permitted due to size limitations.

Are children allowed on the Gordon River cruise?

Yes, infants and small children can join; infants are free if they do not occupy their own seat.

What kind of food is served for lunch?

The buffet features chef-prepared dishes using local Tasmanian produce; dietary needs can be accommodated.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the Gordon River Cruises terminal in Strahan.

Are there restrooms onboard Spirit of the Wild?

Yes, restrooms are available onboard throughout the cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes quiet cruising aboard Spirit of the Wild with electric motors on the Gordon River, guided walks at Heritage Landing through ancient rainforest and across Sarah Island’s historic ruins with dedicated local guides, plus a chef-prepared buffet lunch served onboard before returning to Strahan for complimentary tastings at the terminal.