Arthur River Cruises

The Arthur RiverArthur River Cruises operate the 15.5 metre ‘M.V. George Robinson’, built in the 1980s, using plans from a 19th century river boat. Departing daily from the mouth of the river, the five-hour, 14 kilometres cruise to the junction of the Arthur and Frankland Rivers takes about 90 minutes. Morning tea is served while cruising past coastal heath, huge eucalyptus and acacia trees, all part of this ancient, virtually untouched, rainforest.

The only way to explore the temperate rainforest is via the river and it’s banks are lined with rare endemic trees; leatherwood, myrtle, laurel, celery top pine, sassafras, blackwood, eucalyptus and giant tree ferns.

Passengers disembark for two hours at Turk’s Landing and can remain in the forest clearing and enjoy a glass of wine, or take a leisurely stroll into the rainforest with a local tour guide, who has a wealth of knowledge of the plant and animal life, the history of the area and the indigenous Aboriginal tribes. On returning to the undercover campsite, enjoy a barbecue lunch, served with a selection of fresh salads and The waters edge, Arthur Riverwine. After lunch the vessel makes the return trip, feeding the sea eagles en-route. Keep a look out for the elusive platypus.

The Arthur River Cruise booking office is situated on the northern bank of the Arthur River, a 50 minute drive from Smithton on the A2 and a 65 minute drive from Stanley. Be prepared for all types of weather and make sure you have warm clothing and wet weather gear. The cruise departs at 10am and returns at 3pm.

A Barbacue