Strahan, on Tasmania’s rugged west coast, offers a surprising variety of dinner experiences that blend natural beauty, history, and local flavors. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely cruise while dining or explore Tasmania’s wild landscapes with a gourmet touch, you’ll find options that suit different tastes and budgets. We’re especially fond of the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise because it combines stunning scenery with an engaging historical tour, making it more than just a meal on the water. For those wanting a more intimate, on-board dinner with a focus on Tasmania’s finest produce, the Evening Dinner Cruise offers a luxurious experience. Meanwhile, the From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River provides a solid balance of scenery, history, and dining, making it a dependable choice for most travelers.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover three top dinner experiences in Strahan:
– The Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise, which features a 6-hour adventure with rainforest walks and convict history (more details here).
– The Evening Dinner Cruise, an evening journey aboard a quiet catamaran with Tasmanian specialties (more info here).
– The From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River, a slightly more affordable option with scenic views and a buffet dinner (details here).
1. Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise
At number one, this cruise offers a full 6-hour experience that beautifully combines Tasmania’s natural and historic treasures. Starting from Strahan Wharf, you’ll board a 115-foot catamaran that takes you down the Gordon River, through pristine wilderness that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed South West Wilderness. The tour includes a guided walk through Sarah Island, the infamous convict settlement, where you’ll learn about Tasmania’s penal past. The excursion is notable for its authentic storytelling, with guides sharing insights into the region’s rugged landscape and history. The cruise also features a visit to Hells Gate, where the river meets the ocean, offering dramatic scenery and a sense of Tasmania’s wild coast.
Guests consistently praise the peacefulness of the Gordon River and the fascinating history of Sarah Island. One reviewer called it “a wonderful experience showing the wilderness, rugged landscape and peacefulness of the area.” The cruise departs from Strahan Wharf and includes a stop for a rainforest walk, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the lush environment. The meal itself, while not specified in detail, is part of the package, and many feel the value lies in the comprehensive experience—learning about Tasmania’s past while enjoying a scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you love combining history, nature, and a leisurely boat ride with a dinner. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and stories.
2. Evening Dinner Cruise
At number two, the Evening Dinner Cruise offers a luxurious way to see Tasmania’s wilderness at sunset while enjoying a gourmet meal. This 6-hour journey on a state-of-the-art quiet catamaran lets you relax and take in spectacular views of the Tasmanian Wilderness, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cruise emphasizes learning about the local flora, fauna, and history, all explained by knowledgeable guides. It’s a great choice if you prefer a more refined atmosphere, with options to choose between three different seat classes to suit your comfort preferences.
What sets this cruise apart is the focus on Tasmanian produce. You can sample leatherwood honey and see Hells Gates—where the river meets the sea—in a setting that feels both exclusive and educational. The onboard dinner is a highlight, showcasing some of Tasmania’s best ingredients in a memorable setting. The cruise includes stops at Heritage Landing for rainforest walks and exploration of ancient Huon pines.
Guests note it’s “informative and interesting,” with a special mention that the cruise includes a detailed narrative about the region’s plants, wildlife, and history. If you enjoy a more intimate, food-focused experience with scenic views, this cruise fits the bill.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a combination of scenic beauty, Tasmanian cuisine, and informative storytelling in a relaxed setting.
3. From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise on the Gordon River
In third place, this award-winning wilderness cruise offers a well-rounded experience with scenic views, a buffet dinner, and on-shore excursions. Starting from Strahan, the cruise takes you along the Gordon River in a comfortable vessel with full-length windows to maximize your viewing pleasure. The highlight is a buffet dinner featuring local specialties, served as you cruise through the stunning wilderness. The tour includes visits to Sarah Island, giving insight into Tasmania’s convict past, with guides sharing engaging stories.
Guests appreciate the “serene beauty of the reflections and scenery,” which makes the dinner feel like a peaceful retreat into Tasmania’s wild heart. The ship’s onboard narration enriches the experience, revealing the area’s ecological and historical significance. This cruise balances scenery, history, and dining, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a dependable, scenic dinner option without the need for long walks or complex logistics.
While some reviews mention the price isn’t specified, the value comes from the combination of scenery, a hearty buffet, and a historic on-shore visit that brings the region’s story to life.
Bottom Line: This option suits travelers seeking a scenic, relaxed dinner cruise with a focus on Tasmania’s wilderness and convict history, at a reasonable price point.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a full-day adventure with rainforest walks and convict history, the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise (more info) is perfect. For a more intimate, luxurious evening with gourmet food and scenic views, the Evening Dinner Cruise (details here) offers a refined experience. Meanwhile, if you prefer a dependable, scenic boat ride with a buffet dinner and historical stops, the From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise (details here) provides excellent value.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you’re more interested in history, scenery, or fine dining. Booking early is recommended during peak season, especially for popular cruises like these.
Final Thoughts
Strahan’s dinner cruises offer a compelling mix of Tasmania’s natural beauty, rich history, and local cuisine. For those seeking a broad experience that blends storytelling with scenery, the Afternoon Gordon River Dinner Cruise stands out. If you’re after a more relaxed, upscale evening with excellent food and scenic vistas, the Evening Dinner Cruise is a solid pick. And for travelers who want reliability and good value, the From Strahan: Evening Dinner Cruise is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, each offers a memorable way to experience Tasmania’s wild west coast. Be sure to book early, especially in peak months, and prepare for an evening of stunning views and intriguing stories that will stay with you long after you leave.