Come on Safari with us… the Tasmanian way

The river safari is an adventure tour by boat along the Swan River right at the doorstep to the lodge. You will be immersed in the wonders of the river, its endemic animals and birdlife, regaled with the rich first nations story telling of the district.

Your Safari Guide

Your host will be Mat Routley, owner of the Swan River Sanctuary and native Tasmanian. The Sanctuary brings together his passions, moulded from extensive travel including living and observing nature in Africa to observing traditional, regenerative and sustainable farming methods in India.

He will quietly walk, float, observe and listen with you to bring to life the inside story of the land and river that is the back drop to the stunning setting of Swan River Sanctuary.

River Safari Testimonial

“We had unforgettable river safari experience on the beautiful river, highly recommended! Matthew was such a great host with lots of knowledge and we really enjoyed our time with him. A very lovely addition to our stay and we all look forward to going back sometime soon!”

Jeffrey (Melbourne)

  • A cultural and birdwatching tour down the Swan River by boat into the Moulting Lagoon conservation area.

  • The river is a highway for birds and the lagoon holds one of the richest diversities of birdlife in Tasmania. Species such as black swan, pied cormorant, grey cranes, white bellied sea eagles, wedge tailed eagles, egrets, black cockatoos, swamp harriers are common.

  • There are also a range of local animals that we can spy from the boat including, wallabies, echidnas and wombats. Sightings are not guaranteed but are common.

  • The sanctuary sits on a significant site in Oyster Bay tribe territory. Indigenous mythology and story telling flows as we float down the river.

  • You will learn about the great battles,fought between tribes right on the hills around us and the last of the East Coast people that lived here.

The Safari

Booking Info

  • The river safari is a private tour for up to 4 people.

  • Duration is typically 2.5 hours although may run longer. Begins at 8am.

  • The safari is only available to guests staying in the lodge.

  • The boat is a beautifully restored Haines Hunter v19r that has been in Mathew’s family for 2 generations.

  • Cost is a total of $800 for 1 to 4 people.

  • Morning tea served on the river included.

  • Your safari is exclusive to you and your party only.

  • To reserve a date, please book accommodation online and then send us an email here to enquire about availability of the river safari .