New Cruiser Takes to Tasmania’s
World Heritage Wilderness (September 19, 2002)

Tasmania’s famed Gordon River is now open for exploration aboard a sleek new cruiser, the most modern craft to ply the waters of Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness. The $2.8 million Adventurer, operated by World Heritage Cruises, will carry up to 200 passengers a cruise when it begins services on September 24. The 30m catamaran has been specially designed with a low displacement to minimise wash and prevent erosion of the Gordon’s banks. It will operate half-day and full-day cruises from the wilderness gateway of Strahan, crossing the expanses of Macquarie Harbour before venturing up the Gordon River. Highlights include the rainforest walkway at Heritage Landing, an opportunity to see Tasmania’s ancient Huon Pines and other rainforest species. The cruises also visit the remains of the Sarah Island convict settlement and the notorious entrance to Macquarie Harbour, Hells Gates. The Adventurer joins World Heritage Cruises’ existing catamaran Wanderer II, increasing passenger capacity to cater for a growing demand for wilderness cruising. The company began operating cruises on the Gordon River in 1896 and has been managed by five successive generations of the Grining family. Cruises are priced from $55 per adult for a full day excursion or $50 for a half day, including a lunch of fine Tasmanian seafood and gourmet produce. For details and bookings contact World Heritage Cruises on 03 6471 7174 or Tasmanian Travel Centres on 1800 623 191.