Strahan is a charming port town on Tasmania’s rugged west coast, known for its stunning wilderness and rich maritime history. But beyond the scenery, it offers some of the best dining experiences in the region—most notably those that combine scenic cruises with delicious meals. We’re particularly fond of the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise because it pairs a relaxed, six-hour voyage through UNESCO-listed wilderness with a hearty dinner and fascinating local stories. It’s a perfect way to enjoy Tasmania’s natural beauty while satisfying your appetite. The other options, like the Evening Dinner Cruise, also deliver memorable experiences, especially if you’re keen to see the river at sunset with a gourmet meal onboard.
To help you navigate your options, here’s a quick overview: the list below features three of the best dining-focused tours in Strahan, each offering a unique way to experience Tasmania’s wilderness and history with a delicious twist. Whether you prefer a daytime adventure, an evening cruise, or a more intimate tour, there’s something that will match your style.
1. Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise
At number one, we recommend the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise, renowned for its comprehensive blend of scenery, history, and gourmet dining. This six-hour cruise departs from Strahan Wharf aboard a 115-foot catamaran, allowing you to explore Tasmania’s West Coast, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness. The cruise features a guided tour of the Sarah Island convict settlement, giving insight into Tasmania’s penal past. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner as the boat glides past tranquil Gordon River waters.
A highlight is the visit to Sarah Island, where guides share stories about the shipyard and penal history, making this a well-rounded cultural experience. Reviews are glowing; one passenger calls it “a wonderful experience showing the wilderness, rugged landscape, and peacefulness,” with many noting the crew’s friendliness and the boat’s comfort. Some visitors note the absence of a hot meal option, but the overall value is excellent considering the scenery, history, and included meal.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day experience that combines nature, history, and good food in a relaxed setting, this cruise offers excellent value and memorable moments.
2. Evening Dinner Cruise
Coming in at number two, the Evening Dinner Cruise offers a more intimate, sunset-focused experience. This six-hour voyage on the Spirit of the Wild takes you into the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness, with opportunities to learn about the flora, fauna, and the river’s significance from onboard guides. As the sun sets over the water, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring regional produce, making it perfect for food lovers.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to see Hells Gates, where river meets ocean, and to explore the ancient Huon pine. Guests can choose from three seating options, from more casual to premium, allowing for a personalized experience. The tour also includes a stop at Heritage Landing for an interpretive rainforest walk, adding an engaging land-based component.
Reviewers praise the quiet catamaran for its comfort and the quality of the meal, with some mentioning the chance to see the river’s reflections at dusk as particularly magical. This cruise is ideal for those seeking a romantic or scenic evening with excellent food and education about Tasmania’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset fans, nature enthusiasts, and couples wanting a relaxed, scenic dinner with a focus on regional Tasmanian fare.
3. From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River
At number three, the From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise offers a similar experience but with a slightly more compact itinerary and an award-winning reputation. This six-hour cruise includes a chef-prepared buffet dinner as you cruise through the Tasmanian Wilderness, with full-length windows providing spectacular views.
The tour highlights Sarah Island, giving visitors a vivid picture of the penal settlement’s history, along with the chance to experience the reflections and serenity of the Gordon River. Guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is breathtaking, especially when illuminated by twilight. The dinner is buffet-style, with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients, making for a satisfying meal after a day of sightseeing.
While some reviews note that the price is comparable with other tours, the quality of the meal and the scenic setting make it a good value for those wanting a well-rounded evening experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a shorter, more streamlined cruise but still want to indulge in local cuisine.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a scenic, scenic, and comfortably paced river cruise with a quality dining experience.
How to Choose Between These Dining Cruises
Choosing between these options depends on your schedule, interests, and what kind of experience you’re after. The Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise is ideal if you want a full immersion into Tasmania’s wilderness and history with a leisurely outdoor dinner. If your timing suits an evening outing and you’re keen to see the river at sunset, the Evening Dinner Cruise offers a romantic, scenic experience. For those seeking a shorter, more streamlined evening with a buffet dinner, the From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River provides a well-balanced option.
Consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you value in-depth historic storytelling or scenic sunsets. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and seating.
Final Thoughts
Strahan’s dining cruises combine Tasmania’s striking natural beauty with delicious regional cuisine, providing memorable ways to experience the wilderness. The Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise ranks highly for its comprehensive itinerary and historical insights, making it suitable for travelers who want a full-day adventure. Meanwhile, the Evening Dinner Cruise offers an ideal romantic escape with spectacular sunset views, and the third option balances scenic beauty with good food in a shorter timeframe.
Whether you’re into history, nature, or just looking for a relaxing meal on the water, these tours offer something special. Be sure to book early to secure your spot—and get ready for an unforgettable taste of Tasmania’s wilderness and hospitality.