Rafting in The West Coast

Rafting Tasmania. This well-established company offers 5-, 7-, and 10-day trips on the Franklin from November to March. The company gets high praise from guests looking for an adventurous time on the water. 03/6239-1080. www.raftingtasmania.com..

Arthur River Cruises. For a more serene time, Arthur River Cruises runs boat trips on a beautifully preserved old steel craft along a section of the river 14 km (9 mi) south of Marrawah. Glide through pristine rain forest unchanged for centuries. 1414 Arthur River Rd., Arthur River, TAS, 7330. 03/6457-1158. www.arthurrivercruises.com.

Gordon River Cruises. Six-hour cruises cost A$195, and cover Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River including a smorgasbord lunch. An informative commentary accompanies the trip to historic Sarah Island, and you can disembark at Heritage Landing and take a half-hour walk through the vegetation to a 2,000-year-old Huon pine tree. Reservations are essential. 03/6471-4300. www.gordonrivercruises.com.au..

World Heritage Cruises. This company has half- and full-day cruises, which sail daily from Strahan Wharf. Meals and drinks are available on board. The leisurely journey pauses at Sarah Island, Heritage Landing, and the Saphia Ocean Trout Farm on Macquarie Harbour. From November through April they also operate the luxury three-day and two-night Wilderness Escape Cruise on the MV Discovery; limited to 24 passengers, this is the ultimate way to experience the Gordon River. 03/6471-7174. www.worldheritagecruises.com.au..