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Introduction
Thinking about experiencing Tasmania’s incredible wilderness while indulging in good food and compelling stories? The Evening Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of the Wild offers a chance to see one of Australia’s most pristine natural areas with a relaxed, luxurious twist. This cruise is particularly appealing for those who enjoy scenic river journeys paired with authentic local flavors and insightful guides.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the quiet hybrid-powered vessel ensures a peaceful experience without the noise and fumes of traditional boats, letting you fully soak in the natural surroundings. Second, the dinner onboard—featuring some of Tasmania’s finest produce—upgrades the trip from simple sightseeing to a true culinary experience. That said, one consideration to keep in mind is the lack of hotel pickup, meaning you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to the meeting point.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, educational journey into Tasmania’s wilderness combined with gourmet dining. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a memorable evening on the water without sacrificing comfort and good food.
Key Points
- Luxurious yet eco-friendly vessel for smooth, quiet cruising.
- Expert guides provide engaging stories about the river, flora, fauna, and history.
- Delicious Tasmanian cuisine included, with options for different seating preferences and bar access.
- Stunning scenery featuring rare trees, Hells Gates, and the ancient Huon pine.
- Flexible options to choose your seat class for added comfort.
- Duration of around 6 hours offers a well-paced experience without feeling rushed.
More ways to experience Strahan from the water include these boat tours
A Detailed Look at the Experience
The Journey Begins in Strahan
The tour kicks off from 24 Esplanade, Strahan, with a start time of 3:15 pm. While there’s no hotel pickup included, the meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re staying locally or arriving by bus. We appreciate how the timing allows for a late afternoon departure, setting the stage for a sunset finish—an ideal way to end your day.
The Vessel: Spirit of the Wild
The Spirit of the Wild is more than just a pretty boat. Its hybrid propulsion system means you cruise quietly—no loud engines disrupting the serenity of the wilderness. The vessel also features an environmentally designed hull, which shows a commitment to protecting the pristine local landscape. Inside, you’ll find plenty of deck space and a 360° viewing deck at the top, ensuring you won’t miss a single view or photo opportunity.
Cruising the Gordon River
Once underway, your guides will share stories about the Gordon River, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise’s tranquility allows you to fully appreciate the lush surrounds, with views of rare Tasmanian trees and ancient rainforests. The vessel’s interpretive facilities—including maps and guidebooks—help bring the landscape to life.
A highlight is the stop at Heritage Landing, where you can step ashore for a walk through ancient rainforest. Many reviews praise the guides’ storytelling abilities—“We learnt about the discovery of the harbour, salmon farming, and huon pines”—making this more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an educational journey.
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Seeing Hells Gates and the Huon Pines
A notable moment is passing through Hells Gates, the narrow, powerful entry to Macquarie Harbour where the river meets the ocean. It’s a dramatic spot, often cited as the most incredible part of the cruise. One reviewer called it “incredible” and “the passage through Hells Gate” the highlight of their trip.
The boat also glides past fish farms, giving insight into Tasmania’s aquaculture industry. The presence of Huon pine, one of the oldest living trees, adds a sense of timelessness to the scenery—these giants are over 1,000 years old and give the landscape a deep sense of history.
Sarah Island: A Conviсt History Lesson
Next, you’ll stop at Sarah Island for a guided tour led by guides from the Round Earth Company. Their storytelling is lively and informative—one review states “Lyell was very charismatic and we learnt a lot about the history of the convicts.” Expect to learn about the treacherous convict days that shaped the island’s story, which adds depth to your understanding of this remote place.
The Dining Experience
After exploring Sarah Island, you’ll return to the boat for dinner, often described as “chef-prepared” and “delicious.” The buffet dinner showcases Tasmania’s finest produce, with options that suit various tastes. The main deck includes a complimentary beer, wine, or soft drink, while the upper deck offers an open bar, elevating the experience for those who enjoy a drink while watching the sunset.
Guests frequently mention the quality of the food—”the food was excellent”—and the friendly service from crew members like Andy and Harriet, who make everyone feel welcome. The combination of great scenery and excellent food makes this cruise a worthwhile splurge.
The Overall Value
With a cost of $111.17 per person, this tour offers significant value, especially considering the inclusions: guides, a buffet dinner, and drinks. Many reviewers agree that the price is justified, noting the high quality of the experience and the chance to relax in comfort while surrounded by some of Tasmania’s most beautiful landscapes.
While it’s a longer tour, the 6-hour duration feels well-paced, giving enough time to appreciate each stop without feeling hurried. The small group environment, capped at 190 travelers, helps maintain an intimate atmosphere—important for engaging storytelling and personal attention.
Why This Tour Fits Certain Travelers Best
This cruise is perfect for nature lovers who appreciate quiet, scenic water routes and want to learn about Tasmania’s natural environment and history. It’s also suited for foodies eager to sample local produce in a beautiful setting. If you’re someone who values guides with knowledge and personality, this trip will resonate with you.
However, those looking for a full-day adventure or transport-inclusive experience might find this slightly lacking, since hotel pickups are not included, and the focus is on the late afternoon to evening hours. Also, if you’re sensitive to flies or outdoor elements, be prepared, as some reviews mention the presence of blowflies.
Final Thoughts
The Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River truly stands out as a relaxing, scenic, and tasty way to experience Tasmania’s wilderness. Its combination of silent, eco-friendly cruising, expert-guided stories, and a high-quality dining experience makes it a memorable adventure.
It’s especially ideal for travelers seeking a less hurried, more intimate encounter with nature—something that allows you to enjoy the landscape, learn its stories, and indulge in local flavors without feeling rushed. The size and scope of the experience make it a great value, offering a perfect balance of comfort, education, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a meaningful way to explore Tasmania’s natural treasures, this cruise promises a gentle, engaging, and tasteful journey through one of Australia’s most stunning national treasures.
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Evening Dinner Cruise
“The trip is 6 hours of varied quality experiences! They went out through Devils Head, then across the harbour to the beauty of the Gordon River, w…”
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at 24 Esplanade, Strahan.
What is the start time for the cruise?
The cruise departs at 3:15 pm, making it a perfect late afternoon activity that extends into the evening.
How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, providing a leisurely pace that includes sightseeing, walking, and dining.
What should I expect during the stop at Heritage Landing?
You’ll have the chance to step ashore for an interpretive walk through the ancient rainforests, guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the significance of the flora and landscape.
Are drinks included in the cruise?
Yes, a complimentary beer, wine, or soft drink is included on the main deck, while the upper deck features an open bar for a wider selection.
Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While the tour doesn’t specify restrictions, the activity is mainly sightseeing and walking, so most travelers, including families, should find it suitable.
What kind of vessel is used for this cruise?
The Spirit of the Wild is a hybrid-powered, environmentally designed vessel with ample deck space and a 360° viewing deck, guaranteeing great views for all passengers.
Is the dinner served onboard or at a different location?
The chef-prepared buffet dinner is served onboard, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery while dining.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour confirmation is given at booking, and cancellations are possible up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. In case of bad weather, the crew will make safety calls, but the vessel is designed to handle various conditions.
In summary, this cruise offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, educational content, and gourmet dining. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to experience Tasmania’s wild side without sacrificing comfort or depth of experience.
