Frequently asked questions

Cruising through Tasmania's world heritage wilderness on the Gordon River is a breathtaking experience. Our wilderness cruises take you to interesting and wild places, showing you ancient rainforests, wildlife, amazing local flavours and giving you a window into Tasmania's rich history.

If you are planning on visiting Tasmania's west coast and exploring the wilderness, you might like to take a look through our frequently asked questions below. If you have questions that are not answered here, please feel free to contact us directly and we will be happy to help.

Cruise information

When Spirit of the Wild cruises on the Gordon River, she's propelled by electric motors. This means your cruise experience is remarkably quiet, giving you the best possible understanding of the tranquility of the wilderness. We don't call it 'silent' but many of our guests do!

Yes. We are very proud of our team at Gordon River Cruises. We ensure all our guides receive training to make sure we deliver the high-quality interpretation that our area’s natural and human history deserves.

Our Gordon River Cruises staff can help you to choose the type of seating style you would like but the actual seat location is allocated.

Yes. There are three seating types and once your seat is allocated, it’s yours for the whole Gordon River Cruise. However, you are free to move around the vessel and use the open-air decks.

You don’t have to stay in your seat for the whole cruise. You can access the outside decks and we encourage you to walk around the vessel.

There is a well-stocked galley on board with tea, coffee, muffins, biscuits and more available. EFTPOS and credit card facilities are available on board for all major credit cards.

Of course! We love having families on board. A family ticket covers 2 adults and up to 3 children. The child ages are 3-16 years old.

60 nautical miles. To give you an idea of the scale of Macquarie Harbour, the mouth of the Gordon River is 35km from Strahan (our departure point).

Yes, all outside decks can be accessed by all passengers, with the only exception being the private viewing deck for Premier Upper Deck guests.

Cancellation fees for Gordon River Cruises are as follows:

72 hours or more prior to scheduled tour start time: Nil
Less than 72 hours prior to scheduled tour start time: full ticket price of tour/activity booked.

No refund will be given for any unused services or non-arrival.

Cancellations must be made by notifying Gordon River Cruises on +61 3 6471 4300 between the hours of 9am and 4pm 7 days a week or send an email to info@gordonrivercruises.com.au

Please note that any bookings cancelled as a result of COVID-related border closures or travel restrictions will not incur cancellation charges.

Clothing and weather

The weather on Tasmania’s west coast can be variable but that’s part of the attraction. We encourage our guests to bring a rain jacket and a warm layer for when you step off the cruise into the World Heritage rainforest.

It’s sometimes said that ‘onion dressing’ is the way to go in Tassie… plenty of layers! A waterproof or windproof jacket is useful as outside on the decks, even on a hot day, can be chilly with the boat travelling at speed across Macquarie Harbour.

Sturdy footwear is advised. Thongs (flip flops/jandals) and slip-on sandals such as Crocs are not suitable as the decks may become wet and slightly slippery. The Gordon River Cruise involves a walking component in two locations, so comfortable footwear is also advised for this reason.

This is very unlikely. The Gordon River Cruise departs in most weather conditions and our vessel was specially built for Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River. She is a very capable and comfortable vessel. We often receive feedback that the Gordon River is more spectacular in wet weather than on sunny days!

We can’t guarantee the weather will always cooperate but as we are the first vessel that cruises into the World Heritage Area each day, there is certainly a good chance of seeing reflections when you cruise with us.

Inclusion & Accessibility

Yes, you certainly can. Spirit of the Wild allows for an inclusive tourism experience, boasting areas on the Main Deck, dedicated as accessible. For more information, please click here to view our accessibility page or feel free to contact us with any questions.

Yes there is. Please call us at Gordon River Cruises on (03) 6471 4300 and place a direct booking to access a pension discount.

We cater for most dietary requirements in our chef-prepared buffet. However, if you have any special requests, it is best to call us at Gordon River Cruises on (03) 6471 4300 or contact us via this website at least one day prior to departure.

Facilities

There is plenty of parking close to the Gordon River Cruises terminal. All day 'Pay & Display' parking is located 250m away from the terminal. We suggest bringing coins to the value of $10.

Please note, the area in front of the terminal is a bus stop and no parking any time.

The closest ATM is at World Heritage Cruises, right next door to the Gordon River Cruises terminal. Cash can also be withdrawn from the local Post Office, located 200 metres from Gordon River Cruises.

Yes, there is a range of accommodation throughout Strahan. The closest accommodation is at Strahan Village, which is less than a 2-minute walk.

Frequently asked questions

Cruise information

What does 'quiet cruising' mean?

Do you have guides and are they trained?

Can we choose our own seats?

Do I keep my assigned seat for the duration of the cruise?

Is there a surcharge for credit card payments?

Can we go outside or do we have to stay in our seat for the whole cruise?

Can I purchase drinks and snacks with my credit card on the cruise?

Are family tickets available?

How many nautical miles does the Gordon River Cruise travel?

Do I have access to the outdoor decks on the Gordon River Cruise?

What is our cancellation policy?

Clothing and weather

What is the weather like on Tasmania’s west coast?

What kind of clothing should I wear on the Gordon River Cruise?

What sort of shoes should I wear?

Will the Gordon River Cruise be cancelled if it the weather is not good?

Am I guaranteed to see reflections on the Gordon River?

Inclusion & Accessibility

Can I join a Gordon River Cruise if I am in a wheelchair?

Is there a pensioner or senior's discount for the Gordon River Cruise?

Can you cater for special dietary requirements?

Facilities

Where do I park my car while I am on the Gordon River Cruise and how much does it cost?

Is there an ATM (cash machine) nearby?

Is there accommodation located close to the Gordon River Cruises check-in location?