Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Strahan and Macquarie Harbour
Strahan is the gateway town to the Gordon River and World Heritage wilderness, situated on the shores of Macquarie Harbour — the second largest harbour in Australia at 285km², connected to the Southern Ocean by the treacherous Hell's Gates passage just 75m wide. From Strahan's Heritage Landing, Gordon River cruise operators offer full-day journeys into the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness past pristine Huon pine forests and ancient buttongrass plains. The town also preserves the haunting history of Sarah Island, Tasmania's most notorious penal colony.
About
Strahan is the gateway town to the Gordon River and World Heritage wilderness, situated on the shores of Macquarie Harbour — the second largest harbour in Australia at 285km², connected to the Southern Ocean by the treacherous Hell's Gates passage just 75m wide. From Strahan's Heritage Landing, Gordon River cruise operators offer full-day journeys into the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness past pristine Huon pine forests and ancient buttongrass plains. The town also preserves the haunting history of Sarah Island, Tasmania's most notorious penal colony.
History & Significance
Strahan developed as a port town for the rich timber industry harvesting Huon pine from the Gordon River in the mid-1800s. Sarah Island, visible on cruises, was Tasmania's most brutal penal colony (1822–1833), where convicts worked in chain gangs and several died under harsh conditions. The town is now the primary gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognised for its pristine forests and ecological significance.
Sources & References
Getting There
Strahan is on Tasmania's west coast, approximately 250km south-west of Launceston via Devonport (5–6 hours driving). Access via A10/Lyell Highway from Hobart (7–8 hours). No public transport to Strahan; a vehicle is essential. Nearest airport is Launceston or Hobart.
Parking
Free parking available at Strahan Heritage Landing and town centre. Capacity is adequate for casual visitors but fills quickly during peak season (Dec–Jan). Parking is accessible for people with mobility needs near the cruise terminals. Overflow parking available in the broader town area.
Visitor Tips
- •Book Gordon River cruises in advance, especially peak season—operators run daily but weather can cause cancellations.
- •Hell's Gates passage is genuinely rough; take seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness.
- •Sarah Island penal history tours are typically included on full-day cruises; bring warm layers as boat decks are exposed.
- •Arrive early to secure parking and allow time before cruise departure.
- •Bring a camera with good zoom for wildlife photography—sea eagles, wallabies, and ancient forests are highlights.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- National
Plan Your Visit
- Duration
- Full day to overnight
- Best Time
- November to April for calmer seas and milder weather. December–January peak season means busier cruises and higher prices. Avoid winter (June–August) when rough Southern Ocean swells increase cancellation risk. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Hours
- Town open year-round; cruise operators run daily (conditions permitting)
Location
- Region
- West Coast
- State
- Tasmania
Good to Know
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages—families with young children can enjoy short scenic cruises and town walks; however, full-day Gordon River cruises involving boat travel and penal history may be intense for very young children.
- Shade/Cover
- Moderate shade
- Pram Friendly
- Yes
Food & Drink
Cafes and restaurants in town; BYO picnic supplies recommended for full-day cruises as onboard food options are limited.
Features
Facilities
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