STRAHAN KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddling the Mirror: Seven Days on the Gordon River from Strahan
A detailed guide to a 7-day expedition through Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River—what to expect, the route, and how the operator outfits and returns you to Strahan.
Paddling the Mirror: Seven Days on the Gordon River from Strahan.
Embark on a seven-day kayaking expedition from Strahan into the tannin-dark waterways and temperate rainforests of the Gordon River and Macquarie Harbour. The trip threads together glassy reflections, ancient Huon pines and a layer of convict-era history inside the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, delivering a sustained wilderness experience under a rainforest canopy.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Temperate Rainforest and Mirror-Still Rivers
The expedition travels through luxuriant wet temperate rainforest where Huon pines, sassafras, leatherwood, celery-top pine and myrtle fringe calm, tannin-stained waters. The river often lies glass-still, reflecting a palette of greens, blues and greys that defines the paddling experience.
Sarah Island and the Convict Era
Macquarie Harbour holds a stark human history: Sarah Island was the site of a penal colony established in 1821, later notable as a major shipbuilding yard. Stories of convicts, escapes and the region’s notorious conditions remain an inescapable part of the harbour’s identity.
Harbour Narrows, Gordon River and a Sailing Return
Paddlers cross Macquarie Harbour, pass the treacherous narrows known as Hells Gates, explore western beaches and aquaculture farms, then push upriver on the Gordon to its junction with the Franklin. The final leg back to Strahan is aboard the sailing yacht Stormbreaker.
What the day feels like
What seven days on the Gordon River feels like
Days begin with the rhythm of paddling across wide, often still water, then narrow as the rainforest closes in. After crossing Macquarie Harbour and passing Hells Gates, the route works along shorelines and then climbs into the Gordon River where camps are set beneath a canopy of ancient trees. Over successive days you move upstream to the Franklin–Gordon junction and return to Strahan by sail, guided throughout by experienced leaders and supported with quality expedition kayaks and supplied paddling gear.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this expedition suits—and who should check with the operator before committing.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a seven-day expedition. Published rates include a headline 'From $3,450' and the operator lists a total of $3,500 with a $400 deposit per person for the advertised package.
Package inclusions: transport from Hobart to Strahan, first-night accommodation in Strahan, return to Strahan on the sailing yacht Stormbreaker, quality expedition kayaks, paddling equipment, National Park entry fees, all meals and refreshments, a nightly glass of wine and two experienced kayaking guides.
Operators supply paddling equipment; participants should bring personal clothing and any personal items. Supplied paddling items include a good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray deck, buoyancy vest and a dry bag.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the expedition?
The Gordon River kayaking expedition runs for seven days.
What is included in the trip package?
The seven-day package includes transport from Hobart to Strahan, first-night accommodation in Strahan, return to Strahan on the yacht Stormbreaker, quality expedition kayaks, paddling equipment, National Park entry fees, all meals and a nightly glass of wine, and two experienced guides.
How much does the trip cost?
Published material lists a headline price 'From $3,450'; the operator’s rates also show a total of $3,500 with a $400 deposit per person for the trip package.
Where does the trip start and finish?
The expedition operates from Strahan. Transport from Hobart to Strahan is included, and the final leg back to Strahan is aboard the sailing yacht Stormbreaker.
What makes this route special?
The route passes through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, featuring ancient Huon pines and temperate rainforest, tannin-stained mirror waters, and a deep convict-era history centered on Sarah Island.
Is equipment provided?
Yes. The operator supplies quality expedition kayaks plus paddling equipment: good-quality paddles, paddling jackets, spray decks, buoyancy vests and dry bags.