World Heritage Cruises

World Heritage Cruises is a premier tour operator based in Strahan, a small town on Tasmania's remote west coast. Their flagship experience is a full-day cruise through Macquarie Harbour and into the Gordon River, a journey through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. The cruise departs from Strahan's wharf and takes passengers past massive sand dunes, historic fish farms, and the notorious Sarah Island, once a brutal penal settlement. The highlight is the Gordon River itself, where the boat glides through mirror-calm waters flanked by ancient rainforests of Huon pine and myrtle beech. The vessel features large viewing decks, a comfortable indoor lounge, and a restaurant serving a buffet lunch made from local Tasmanian produce. Expert guides provide live commentary on the region's geology, history, and wildlife, including opportunities to spot dolphins, seals, and rare bird species. The cruise also makes a brief stop at Sarah Island for a guided walking tour, where visitors learn about the harsh convict past. With a 5-star rating from thousands of reviews, this tour is widely considered the best way to experience Tasmania's wild west.

Don't miss

• Glide through the glassy waters of the Gordon River, reflecting ancient rainforest
• Tour the ruins of Sarah Island, a notorious convict settlement from the 1820s
• Spot wildlife like dolphins, seals, and white-bellied sea eagles from the deck
• Taste local Tasmanian salmon and produce during the onboard buffet lunch

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit World Heritage Cruises

Cheapest way inBosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul4.8★ · 1,143 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$7 per personSee dates →Best full dayGordon River Cruise departing from Strahan4.8★ · 1,630 travelers~6 hoursFrom$117 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleMorning World Heritage Cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan4.8★ · 1,245 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$113 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Bring a warm jacket and raincoat, even in summer, the west coast weather is unpredictable.
• Keep your camera ready for reflections on the Gordon River and wildlife sightings.
• The buffet lunch includes vegetarian options; inform the crew of dietary restrictions when booking.
• Insect repellent is recommended, especially during warmer months, as sandflies can be present.

A bit of history

The Gordon River has been a protected area since the 1980s after a major environmental campaign halted a proposed dam. The river's pristine condition and ancient Huon pine forests, some over 2,000 years old, make it a living museum of natural history.