Unfortunately we are no longer selling Franklin Eco Cruises. However we do have another vessel operating on the same stretch of river and departing from the same location. Click for more information about the Huon River Calm Water Cruise aboard this classic sailing vessel.
We can offer a selection of alternative calm water cruises  on the Huon River, aboard "La Drone", a classic wooden, 1948 Tasmanian built motor cruiser.

Franklin Eco Cruise:
​Charter minimum group of 10 people

Gather a group of 10 people and cruise the Huon River, south from Hobart Tasmania, Australia. ​ The Huon Valley is a land of  waterways, wilderness and wildlife. Explore the calm waters of the historic Huon River and Egg Islands, enjoy a snack and drink. Cruise for 2 hours or longer.

Franklin Eco-cruise

Join us on a leisurely two hour cruise in this custom designed vessel. It has been built specifically to explore the shallow waters of the extensive Egg Islands wetland reserve. The highlight for bird watchers might be a chance spotting of the Australasian Bittern.
This is not a jet boat ride for thrill seekers. It is a tranquil, relaxing, 2 hour introduction to the historic and natural values of the Huon Estuary, Egg Islands and settlements along the rivers edge.
Included is a light snack, or you can purchase fine local wines. Huge picture windows allow you to take in the full view.
  • History and ecology commentary.
  • Includes tea and coffee and sweet and savoury snack
  • Local wines available
  • Calm water cruising, no seasickness here
  • Cruises run at a time to suit you, with 24 hours notice

Places to stay in Tasmania's Huon Valley
​just south from Hobart

No big, impersonal hotels here. The Huon Valley is a region of personal accommodation: Self contained cottages, an eco-retreat, glamping in deluxe tipees, a classic country hotel and several backpackers and campgrounds.

Farmhouse cottage on the Huon River, Tasmania

Picture
Castle Forbes Bay
Overlooking the Huon River, just off the highway from Huonvile to Geeveston, this classic farm cottage can be your base to explore the Huon Valley. Three bedrooms suit couples, families or small groups.

One bedroom self contained cottage at Franklin, Tasmania

The Little Seed BnB at Franklin Tasmania
Franklin
Feel the stress wash away at
The Little Seed, an elegant, self contained cottage, in the hills above the Huon River at Franklin.

Self Contained Eco-Retreat near Dover, Far South Tasmania

Two-bedroom eco-cabin set in a natural buttongrass moorland. Wide open views, or mountains and wildflowers, the occasional Tasmanian Devil or Wedge-tail Eagle. 1.5 hours south from Hobart at Lune River, this is the southernmost accommodation in Australia.

Classic Country Hotel with rooms, bar and restaurant

Picture
Classic country hotel
A balance between comfort and value, our hotel rooms offer charm and magnificent views of the Huon River. Our four star rooms have ensuite bathrooms and you can select from king, queen, single and family rooms.

All accommodation charges include a light continental breakfast and our chef can offer you a variety of breakfast options in Sass restaurant. Dinner, Bed & Breakfast packages available.

Enjoy the open fire of the private guest lounge, or mix with the locals in the public bar or the recently renovated Huon Lounge. A relaxed and intimate hideaway, the Huon Lounge offers fine local and imported wine and beer, fresh coffee and tea, and a tapas menu prepared by our chef from local produce.

Rivers Edge Camping
at Lonnavale

Rivers Edge Camping is caravan and campervan friendly with flat and spacious sites. We are situated on the Russell Forest scenic drive and a short drive to Lake Skinner walking track.
The Rivers Edge walk back at the campsite takes you along the beautiful Russell river downstream to productive fishing pools.

The campsite has Communal shelter,  Great trout fishing, Deep swimming hole, Fresh drinking water, Toilet facilities, Wood fired campsites next to the river. We are Pet Friendly ( All dogs must be under control and with their owners at all times). Powered sites available
Rivers Edge Camping
at Lonnavale
23 km from Huonville
30 campsites,
$10 per adult per night
$5 per child (14 yrs and under. 3 yrs and under free)
$7 for Seniors and Pensioners
$6 per Campervan for powered sites per night
Main feature: Riverfront Camp
This operator is not part of the Huon Valley Escapes instant online booking system. Please use the email button to send us a booking request. We will confirm your single night or entire itinerary and promptly get back to you with a quote.

Tourist Information for Huon Valley

The Huon Visitor Centre is permanently closed.
Huon Valley Escapes can help with accommodation bookings until 7pm.
From 9am to 7pm phone: 1800 770 224
Email: info@huonvalleyescapes.com.au

More information about ​Tasmania's Huon Valley: Things to do, places to stay, history, geography, maps.