An absolute treat of a cruise. You get to see the entrance out to the sea, but also cruise up the…read moreFranklin River and learn about real convict history on Sarah Island. The crew are world-class and the food is excellent.

If you want to see the famous Hell's Gates, the former convict settlement on Sarah Island and get a…read moretaste of the Frankling NP temperate rainforest in an easy 5 1/2 hour, this is the trip for you. The catamaran is purposely build for the tour and has specially angled seats so even if you don't sit at a window you still get a good view! Everything has been thought off; eg the windows get washed after the journey through Hell's Gates, so you can enjoy the views. There are five outside deck spaces, and two indoor seating areas. Splurge on the captains deck (free drinks here include beers, wine as well as softies). Window seats here are at a first booked basis. Or go for the standard deck, a choice of window or standard seating. In total the ship can carry just over 200 guests. The large number of people at the sites make this a four rather than five star experience. Snacks and a buffet lunch are included in the ticket price, as are knowledgeable guides. The tour leaves at 8:30 am and gets back around 2:15 ish. If you go from late Feb to early April the sea may be calm enough to include a sail past the Sorrel lighthouse! My husband hates organised tours and especially cruises. So he went under sufferance..... The captain class buffet lunch with several beers and wines has made this a pleasant experience, even for him!