This five hour cruise explores historic Macquarie Harbour, ducking out Hells Gate into the Southern Ocean before passing salmon farm pens and heading serenely up the tannin stained water of the Gordon River.

The boat moors by a rain forest on the bank of the river and passengers can explore the huon pine forest, including seeing the cross section of a fallen 2000 year old tree.

As well as exploring the natural history of western Tasmania, the cruise pauses to reflect on social history at Sarah Island, a convict settlement that was a busy ship building yard. The huon slipways are still in place as well as many ruins of the buildings and infrastructure of the penal colony.

Cruise fees apply and include an onboard buffet.

Photo: Chris & Kylie (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 / Cropped from original)