
Hells Gates Tasmania
The treacherous, narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour, steeped in convict history and offering dramatic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Smoother passage, better views

Hells Gates Tasmania
Best Time
Smoother passage, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The treacherous, narrow entrance to Macquarie Harbour, steeped in convict history and offering dramatic coastal views.
"Sailing through Hells Gates is a thrilling experience, a dramatic gateway to Tasmania's wild west coast."

Book Cruises in Advance
Secure your spot on a Gordon River cruise, especially during busy periods. :admission_tickets:
Weather is Key
Passage through Hells Gates is weather-dependent. Be prepared for potential changes. ☁️
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
5 · 7 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Treacherous Entrance
Macquarie Harbour
Witness the dramatic, narrow gap where the harbour meets the Southern Ocean. A true test of seamanship.
Lighthouse Views
Macquarie Heads
A picturesque lighthouse stands guard over the turbulent waters, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Convict History
Sarah Island (via cruise)
Imagine the harrowing journeys of convicts through this very passage to the brutal Sarah Island penal station.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Hells Gates
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Cruises in Advance
Secure your spot on a Gordon River cruise, especially during busy periods. :admission_tickets:
Weather is Key
Passage through Hells Gates is weather-dependent. Be prepared for potential changes. ☁️
Embrace the History
Learn about the convict past; it adds so much depth to the experience. 📜
Wear Layers
Tasmanian weather can change quickly, even on a cruise. :windblowingface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Cruises in Advance
Secure your spot on a Gordon River cruise, especially during busy periods. :admission_tickets:
Weather is Key
Passage through Hells Gates is weather-dependent. Be prepared for potential changes. ☁️
Embrace the History
Learn about the convict past; it adds so much depth to the experience. 📜
Wear Layers
Tasmanian weather can change quickly, even on a cruise. :windblowingface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the dramatic scenery and historical significance of Hells Gates, often experienced via Gordon River cruises. The passage itself is described as thrilling, with many appreciating the engineering feat of the sea wall. Some cruises can be bumpy, and the experience is highly weather-dependent, which can lead to cancellations or altered itineraries.
"Travelled here with Gordon River Cruises. We can only imagine how difficult it must have been navigating this path 200 years ago."
Lerong Lin
"Another stop/point of interstate on the Gordon River cruise from Strahan. You will sail through Hells Gate (weather permitting) and have a look at the spot which is often too rough to pass through."
Leah Kid Bucket List
"Very narrow but an amazing method of how they solved the shallows. By building a sea wall approx 200 years ago."
Kerry Clayton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hells Gates is best accessed via a cruise from Strahan. Several tour operators, like Gordon River Cruises, offer trips that navigate through this iconic passage. Driving to Macquarie Heads offers views, but the full experience is from the water.
Strahan is located on Tasmania's west coast. It's a scenic drive from Hobart (approx. 4-5 hours) or Launceston (approx. 4-5 hours). Consider self-driving or joining a guided tour.
Parking is generally available in Strahan, especially near the marina where most cruises depart. It's advisable to arrive a little early to find convenient spots.
While you can drive to Macquarie Heads for views of the harbour entrance, the experience of sailing through Hells Gates is exclusive to boat tours.
Public transport to Strahan is limited. Most visitors opt for car hire or organized coach tours to reach this remote part of Tasmania.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cruise prices vary depending on the operator and duration. Expect to pay between $100-$200 AUD per person for a Gordon River cruise that includes passage through Hells Gates. Booking online often provides the best rates.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book your cruise tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your spot.
Cruises typically depart daily, with departures usually in the morning and afternoon. Check with specific tour operators for their exact schedules.
The cruises that pass through Hells Gates operate year-round, but passage is always subject to weather conditions.
Some operators may offer discounts for families, seniors, or group bookings. It's worth checking their websites or contacting them directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most popular and recommended way to experience Hells Gates is by taking a Gordon River cruise from Strahan. This allows you to safely navigate the waters and learn about the history.
Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are advisable, along with comfortable walking shoes.
Yes, most Gordon River cruises are family-friendly. Children will be fascinated by the boat ride and the historical stories.
While not guaranteed, you might spot seabirds and marine life in the waters around Hells Gates. The focus is more on the dramatic landscape and history.
Cruises that include Hells Gates and often Sarah Island can range from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic entrance, the lighthouse, and the rugged coastline. The journey itself offers stunning panoramic views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife. Protect your gear from sea spray. :camerawithflash:
Yes, from Macquarie Heads, you can get views of the entrance. However, the most immersive photographic experience is from a cruise vessel.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use. Always be mindful of other passengers and crew instructions.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and dramatic skies, but clear midday conditions also provide excellent visibility.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit