6 Reasons to Cruise Tasmania's Gordon River

Nestled on the West Coast of Tasmania, the Gordon River winds its way inland from Macquarie Harbour through lush forests teeming with wildlife. Famous for its reflective surface, the still water offers a glassy canvas to be painted by its stunning surrounds and is brushed with mirror images from the sky. Drink in the views as the pure air rustles through the age-old trees flanking the waterway and watch as the local birdlife flits through the canopy.

Here are some highlights to expect on a cruise of the Gordon River during your tour of Tasmania.

Ancient Forests

The forests that line the river are a masterpiece of nature and time, with native laurels unique to Tasmania and Huon pines that have been clinging to the banks of the Gordon River for more than 2000 years. With 800 species of flora calling these forests home, you will be in awe of the different shades of green peppering the shoreline and the plethora of branches weaving themselves into an intricate canopy.

Macquarie Harbour

Australia’s second biggest natural harbour spans 35 kilometres in length and nine kilometres in width, making it six times the size of Sydney Harbour. Its waters are punctuated by Sarah Island, and by bottle-nosed dolphins frolicking just beneath the surface. Glide through this pristine waterway on your way from Strahan to the Gordon River, admiring the expanse of this pristine ecosystem, approximately 30% of which falls within the boundary of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Hell’s Gates

Dubbed with its iconic name in the early 1800s, Hell’s Gates refers to the dangerously narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour. The shallow waters are notoriously difficult to navigate, and the lighthouses perched on either side are beacons highlighting the hazard ahead. Convicts on their way to the penitentiary on Sarah Island referred to crossing between the rocky outcrops as the ‘entrance to hell’, however, it is now highlight for passengers traversing the harbour.

Sarah Island

Built in 1821 as a penal settlement, Sarah Island was a base where convicts worked in the forests of Huon pines to harvest wood for boat construction. The penitentiary ruins sit as a stirring contrast to the peaceful wilderness that envelops them. The secluded site paints a picture of the hardship and drudgery of the convicts, whose stories are brought to life in the cruise commentary.

The Reflections of the Water

Watch as clouds mirrored from the sky dance across the calm waters, and towering pines throw their reflections across the surface. Keep an eye out for a streak of vibrant blue flashing past as a rare Tasmanian azure kingfisher darts overhead or feel a shadow pass over as the 2.2-meter wingspan of a wedge-tailed eagle blocks the glittering sun from the water, sending it a deep inky shade of indigo.

Comfortable Cruising

The vessels gliding atop the Gordon River are designed to suit the delicate World Heritage Area and make for a quiet and smooth ride. Carefully considered viewing decks are positioned around the catamarans and an abundance of glass windows allow guests to gaze out onto the glossy water against a backdrop of the forest as they enjoy the view and perhaps a sumptuous meal, if you can pick your awe-struck jaw up off the ground to chew!

Experience all this and more - choose your Tasmania tour today.