Leven River Picnic Cruise by Riverlinks Tasmania

Boat Tour · West Ulverstone

BYO Food, Drinks Picnic Forest Cruise

Enjoy a relaxed four-hour picnic cruise on Tasmania’s Leven River with Riverlinks Tasmania. Bring your own food and drinks while spotting rare wildlife and exploring historic forests.

View experience
Duration4 hours
LocationWest Ulverstone, Tasmania
OperatorRiverlinks Tasmania Leven River Cruises and Coastline Tours Tasmania
Price shownFrom $163

Adventure brief

BYO Food, Drinks Picnic Forest Cruise

Enjoy a relaxed four-hour picnic cruise on Tasmania’s Leven River with Riverlinks Tasmania. Bring your own food and drinks while spotting rare wildlife and exploring historic forests.

Stretching through the Central North Coast of Tasmania, the Leven River is a shimmering artery of calm waters and dense forest that beckons nature lovers and adventurers alike. Riverlinks Tasmania Leven River Cruises and Coastline Tours Tasmania offers a unique four-hour picnic cruise along this vibrant river, where guests bring their own food and drinks to enjoy an intimate journey through untouched wilderness and rich local heritage. Boarding near West Ulverstone, this BYO Food, Drinks Picnic Forest Cruise unfolds as a laid-back yet engaging trip, weaving wildlife spotting with cultural storytelling.

The Leven River itself is a Class 1 tidal river, its surface often transformed into a canvas of vivid reflections by the surrounding wetlands and dense forest. As the boat glides upstream, eyes scan the riverbanks for Tasmania’s elusive platypus, azure kingfishers with their vivid blue flashes, and regal sea eagles that soar overhead. The cruise highlights a rare chance to witness these native creatures in their natural habitat—a quiet thrill for ornithologists and casual observers alike.

Midway, the cruise stops at historic Leven Park Forest Reserve, where guests disembark to wander through a wet sclerophyll forest marked by towering eucalyptus and ancient Antarctic Dicksonia tree ferns. Seasonal shifts paint the undergrowth with subtle changes, creating a rich sensory backdrop for enjoying your picnic. Beyond nature, the tour offers insightful commentary on the settlement and development of Ulverstone, drawing connections between Tasmania’s natural environment and its cultural roots.

Riverlinks Tasmania’s picnic cruise stands out by blending accessibility for all ages with a dynamic balance of wildlife, history, and tranquil forest scenery—a compelling addition to Tasmania's outdoor recreation scene and an ideal choice for those seeking immersive day trips without predefined catering or schedules.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Bring a Waterproof Picnic Cooler

    Keep your food and drinks fresh and protected from river spray using a sturdy, insulated cooler.

    essential
  2. 02
    Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing

    Pack a pair of binoculars to spot elusive platypus and colorful birds from a distance.

    info
  3. 03
    Wear Lightweight Layers

    Temperatures can shift quickly on the water, so dress in layers that can be added or removed as needed.

    info
  4. 04
    Protect Against Sun Exposure

    Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to guard against reflected sunlight off the water.

    essential
DifficultyEasy
Duration4 hours
FitnessSuitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required as cruise is primarily boat-based with short forest walks.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Insulated Cooler Bag

Keeps your food and drinks fresh throughout the picnic cruise.

Essential
02

Binoculars

Useful for spotting distant wildlife like platypus and kingfishers.

03

Sun Protection Gear

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and hats are must-haves during sunny months.

summerEssential
04

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Protects against occasional rain and wind while cruising along the river.

spring|fall

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Leven Park Forest Reserve’s wet sclerophyll forest with ancient Dicksonia tree ferns, Quiet tributaries near the riverbanks favored by platypus at dawn and dusk

Wildlife

Local fauna

Platypus, Tasmanian Azure Kingfisher

History

Historic heritage

The Leven River area is integral to the settlement history of Ulverstone, reflecting Tasmania’s early timber and fishing industries.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Riverlinks Tasmania supports sustainable tourism practices designed to minimize disturbance to wildlife habitats and maintain the ecological integrity of the Leven River.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Alongside the riverbanks near Leven Park, From the boat’s upper deck during calm water stretches, Onshore forest trails at Leven Park Forest Reserve
Subjects
Reflective river landscapes, Wildlife including birds and platypus, Historic forest vegetation and tree ferns
Best times
Golden hour, early morning, late afternoon

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on the cruise?

Yes! This is a BYO Food and Drinks picnic cruise, so you’re encouraged to bring whatever you prefer to eat and drink.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?

Basic restroom facilities are available on the boat for guest use.

Is the cruise suitable for children and seniors?

Absolutely. The cruise is easy-paced and suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

What kind of wildlife might I see on this cruise?

Guests often spot platypus, sea eagles, the Tasmanian Azure Kingfisher, and various endemic bird species.

Can I disembark and walk during the tour?

Yes, the cruise includes a stop at historic Leven Park Forest Reserve for a short walk among native forest.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the cruise?

Riverlinks Tasmania offers options to reschedule or full refunds in the event of weather cancellations.

Riverlinks Tasmania Leven River Cruises and Coastline Tours Tasmania

Leven River Picnic Cruise by Riverlinks Tasmania