kayak tour tasmania

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join us on a Kayaking tour in Tasmania: Experience paddling in Pristine Wilderness like never before.

Why paddle tasmania.

Tasmania, Australia’s only Island state, is one of the world’s premier places for a clean-air escape. With around 40% of the island protected in either reserves, national parks or as World-Heritage Listed Wilderness (1.4 million hectares) and with over 4000kms of coastline, it is no surprise that the variety of sea kayaking opportunities in Tasmania is exceptional.

Our local kayak guides will introduce you to sea kayaking on the wild coastlines and tranquil bays of Bruny Island and Tasman Peninsula.

Be rewarded with untouched wilderness, uncrowded beaches, craggy coastlines and unique wildlife, in the sea, on land and in the skies above. Whichever one (or two) of our lodge or base camp, sea kayak escapes you choose, the experience is sure to refresh the senses.

Join us on a shorter escape, or combine two trips for the ultimate Tasmanian sea kayak adventure!

Explore our Tasmanian Kayaking Tours

November-April

Bruny Island Paddle – Instructional Kayak Adventure

Join SSV on a trip to beautiful Bruny Island and upskill your paddling techniques! This special departure presents the ideal opportunity for paddlers looking to enhance their kayak skills with expert tuition from our professional guides. Each day will include an instructional session on a set topic followed by short paddles to explore the best of Bruny.

13-23 June 2024

Dark Paddle Hobart

Evening guided paddle in Hobart during Dark Mofo. Includes gear, refreshments, no kayaking experience needed.

October-April

The Three Capes Paddle

Spend four wonderful days exploring the diversity of the Tasman Peninsulas’ cultural and natural landscapes.

December-March

Freycinet Peninsula Kayak Expedition

Enjoy spectacular scenery amongst one of Australia’s most iconic national parks. Paddle, hike, and camp in one of Australia’s most amazing coastal environments.

Bruny Island Paddle

Discover secluded coves, sea caves, lagoons, sea kelp forests and if lucky, encounters with fur seals, fairy penguins and soaring albatross, and enjoy evenings spent in our cozy lodge sampling delicious Bruny Island delicacies.

The Three Capes Kayak, Hike And Whale Watch Escape

Witness the annual whale migration as Humpback and Southern Right travel up and down the coast between May and November in a renowned destination for whale sightings, world class sea kayaking and hiking.

• Spot amazing wildlife, including many only found in Tasmania , plus the chance to sight rare birds including the swift parrot .
• Find a kayaking adventure to suit your skills and experience, from expedition-style multi-day trips to beginner-friendly mini-breaks close to Hobart .
• Experience Tasmania’s renowned pristine wilderness off the beaten path and from a unique perspective on the water .
• Paddle with a Tasmanian-based company offering local insights and knowledge.
• Feel confident in the hands of experienced and qualified sea kayak guides.
• Quality sea kayaking and safety equipment provided, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

frequently asked questions

The most popular time for sea kayaking in Tasmania is during the warmer months, from October to April. This period offers more stable weather conditions and milder temperatures. However, Tasmania’s off-season also has plenty to offer paddlers, including whale migration season from May to November.

Tasmania’s coasts are rich with wildlife. Kayakers might spot Australian fur seals, dolphins, and plenty of birdlife . During certain times of the year, you might also see migrating whales. The clear waters and pristine beaches provide a perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing.

Our tours are suitable for children aged 12 and above who are accompanied by an adult. We also occasionally offer dedicated family-friendly itineraries for children 8 and above, depending on everyone’s confidence and capability on the water. For those with younger children, we suggest a private trip, which we can arrange for you.

Safety is our top priority. All tours are led by experienced and certified guides who are trained in first aid and rescue techniques. We provide all necessary safety equipment, and conduct a thorough safety briefing before heading out.

Tasmania’s maritime climate can be variable, so be prepared for changes. During the kawarmer months from October to April, you can expect generally mild weather, though wind, rain, and cooler temperatures are possible, especially outside of summer months. Always check the local weather forecast and listen to your guide’s advice regarding weather conditions.

Yes, SSV offers private tours that can be customised to your group’s needs. Whether you’re planning a corporate outing, a school trip, family reunion, or a getaway with friends, we can arrange a kayaking adventure tailored just for you.

We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of Tasmania’s coastlines. Our tours follow strict environmental guidelines to minimise impact, including leave-no-trace principles and wildlife interaction protocols. We aim to ensure our activities are sustainable and respectful to the local ecosystem.

Booking is easy. Most of our trips offer direct booking online, or you can contact the office directly. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred departure dates. We accept most payment methods.

Kayak Journeys around the world

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Explore Far South Tasmania from a new perspective

Join our Tasmanian kayak tour as we paddle in the spectacular waters of Tasmania’s far south wilderness.

All tours are easy flat water paddles. No previous experience required. All tours are great for families with kids under 16 joining for only $65!

Our kayaking tours

Enjoy the tranquillity of Lune River

Lune River Tour

Launching into dark tannin rich waters of Lune River under the gaze of Adamsons Peak and the Southern Ranges.

CRUISE AROUND THE ISLANDS

Port Esperance Bay

Experience our Port Esperance Bay kayaking tour exploring one of the most beautiful natural harbours in Tasmania.

BREATH IN THE BEAUTY

Huon River Tour

Enjoy a paddle on the tranquil waters of the Huon River at Franklin as you cruise at a gentle pace around Egg Island.

FRENCH EXPLORERS

Recherche Bay tour

Follow the footsteps of the early French explorers to Recherche Bay. A unique Tasmania wilderness experience.

• River Run Twilight Kayak Tour

River Run Twilight Tour

Enjoy the beauty of twilight on the Esperance River during a two hour journey along the forested banks and islands at the river mouth.

HUNT FOR TREASURE

Treasure Hunt Tour

Paddle your own boat to your own deserted island to hunt for hidden treasure. Treasure map and morning tea included.

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KAYAK TOURS

• Kayaking Tours
• Huon River Kayak Tour
• Lune River Kayak Tour
• Port Esperance Bay Kayak Tour
• Treasure Hunt Kayak Tour

Esperance Adventures

Get in touch.

Secret River Gem Hunting & Kayaking Tours  NORTH EAST TASMANIA : AUSTRALIA

Kayak and Gem Tours are separate 

Gem Hunting Tours One on one Tour  $250 $ 150 p/adult for 2 or more people $ 70 p/kiddie 17 & u Tour 4 to 5 hours (on location) Meet at the Weldborough Pub  8am-9am 

Kayak Tours

4 hour tour

$150 p/ad 

$70 per kiddie/ 17 & u (Max 6 p)  

Best to contact me through

Txt :0435 914 869

or Email: [email protected]

Please try to plan ahead and book in advance as late notice booking may lead to disappointment for both of us   :-(  

Kayak Demonstration 

Kayaks are pedal not paddle .

What's the best way to contact you? Please t ext or email as I don,t answer my phone while on a tour.  Just leave your name, type of tour and preferred date and I will get back to you asap.

How many people can go?    Kayaking (1 to 7) Gem tours (1 to 8)

How old?   Toddlers to 120 years old

How long do they go for ?     Kayaks (4 h) Gem tours (5 h)

 Do I need balance /skills/experience? No, none at all :-)

Can I just hire a kayak?   No! Sorry my licence does not allow hiring  

What time does the kayak tour start?  Depends on the weather?  But generally 7.30 am in summer, 8.30 am in Spring and Autumn and 10 am in winter.

What time does the Gem tour start?  Meet between 8 am & 9 am 

Can I keep the gem stones I find?   Yes!  you can keep anything a everything you find :-)

Where do I meet you?   I will send you a map with clear directions 

Can i go if I have a disability? YES ! we will find a way!

How do I pay? You can pay cash or EFT.

Are you kayaks stable? Yes!!!! Very :-)

I have a bad  knee, can I still go?   Yes :-) The pedal system is very easy to use and most people don,t have a problem (I have a bad knee), but if your knee gets sore? I can tow you (I am stronger than I look)

Do you have paddle kayaks ?   No! Only pedal kayaks

What do I bring? Water and snacks (Lunch on gem tours)

What do I wear? Comfortable sun smart clothes suitable for the conditions. Comfortable shoes. ( Most gem tours do not require gum boots but I will provide them when needed )

Will I get wet? No! unless you fall in. I have had 3 people fall in, in 3 years (one of those was me,,, I got complacent) 

Can I bring my phone? Yes I provide a waterproof lunch box to put your phone in however phones have fallen in (including mine, complacent again) so there is a risk  :-) 

Can I bring my dog ?  Yes ! Dogs are welcome.

Can I bring my horse?   Only if it is really really small.

Are there toilets?  Georges Bay has toilets however wee behind a tree in all other locations.  (Lots of nice trees)

Can I bring back pack, camera, drone?  Yes ! There is plenty of dry storage on the kayaks.

Do you combine kayak tours with gem tours?  No, they are both independent and separate tours

How much do your kayaks cost?  $5000 each

All Adventures Require No Previous Experience

George's Bay St Helens

Georges Bay is a world class kayaking and fishing destination.  The view is diverse and beautiful, with exceptional fishing all year round . 4 hour + tours available weather permitting 

Best suited to smaller groups as the bay can be affected by strong sea breeze.

Enquiries or bookings email: [email protected]

                                  Mob/txt: 0435 914 869 

Scamander River

Scamander River snakes its way inland, through a mix of steep eucalyptus  covered hills and post card Tasmanian farmland. The spectacular scenery and the winding nature of this river is constantly inviting you to see what is around the next corner. Tour goes for 4 hours +.  2 hours up river and 2 hours back with a rest break on a "secret" Island in the middle.   

Scamander River is a sheltered, family friendly, all weather location and only 20 minutes from St Helens.  Scamander River is perfect for kids, beginners and larger groups.  No experience necessary.

                 Mob/txt: 0435 914 869        

Ansons Bay and River

Anson's Bay and river is unique, diverse and breathtaking.   Anson’s River winds its way into the bay from the western high country of Mt William National Park through steep eucalyptus / iron bark covered hills and fern filled gully’s. Tour is 4 hours + Ansons Bay is 35 min drive north of St Helens

Ansons Bay and River is a sheltered, family friendly, all weather location and only 30 minutes from St Helens.  It's perfect for kids, beginners and larger groups.  No experience necessary.  Parks and Wildlife pass essential.

              Mob/txt: 0435 914 869  

Gem Hunting Tours

Secret River Gem Hunting Tours gives you the opportunity to explore  North East Tasmania's tin mining history while hunting for precious gems in rugged rainforest covered mountains. The clear mountain streams and old tin mining tailings yield world class Sapphire, Topaz, Zircon, Spinel, Ruby Tin. and other crystalized minerals.

                           All equipment and safety gear provided.

                        Suitable locations for all ages and abilities

Enquiries or bookings 

               email: [email protected]

              Mob/txt: 0435 914 869 

Secret River Gem Hunting Tour

 Travel to the location approx  1 hour travel from St Helens to the "secret" location and 20 min if your coming from Derby, 4 to 5 hours fossicking on site

Total tour 6 - 7 hours (including travel).  

My vehicle can seat 3 passengers comfortably. Over 4 or more people can "tag along" in their own vehicle.  2wd are fine .

I provide all digging and prospecting equipment, gum boots, gloves, safety glasses. (most locations only require comfortable shoes)

Gem Hunting options

Locations and Tours suitable for everyone 

Easy Access Option

A great option for everyone including people with a disability, kids, families, older people. Drive to the digging location if you have a 4wd or jump in with me for the last few hundred metres

Gem Hunting In the River 

Need to be moderately fit and have a fairly healthy body. Involves negotiating sometimes difficult terrain in gum boots with small back pack.  A great option for those who want a bit more of a challenge and adventure

The Wet Suit Option

This involves and walking, wading, swimming up or down the river for longer distances in a wetsuit.  Involves negotiating sometimes difficult terrain while carrying some equipment (back pack/shovel/buckets ect) Need to have your own wetsuit.

     Enquiries or bookings email: [email protected]

                                       Mob/txt: 0435 914 869

What to Expect?

Contact me via email phone or txt and make a booking

I will contact you the week before the tour to confirm booking

I will txt/email the details (where and when to meet, what to bring, what to wear, weather details ect) 2 days before the tour.

Please dress in comfortable, sun smart clothing similar to bush walking that suits the weather forecast/time of year. 

In the colder months  bring a spare set of clothes/socks. 

Please bring food/snacks/lunch of your choice and plenty of water.  

I will bring water, fruit, sunscreen, spare hats as a back up. 

  Gem Hunting Tours   

Wear older clothes  and bring spare set of clothes and socks. 

I provide all equipment necessary for the Gem Hunting Tours including tools, gloves, gum boots and safety glasses.  If you are allergic to jack jumper ants ? Let me know and bring your EpiPen

                                    Mob/txt: 0435 914 869 

The North East Coast of Tasmania is recognized as a world class sports fishing destination.  Secret River Tours promotes and practices tournament style lure fishing with catch, photograph and release but if you really want to take a couple home for lunch I can take an esky and ice (HOWEVER , I LET ALL BREAM GO) Although monster bream are the favored species for most, other fish include big silver trevally,  Flathead, Australian salmon, Whiting, Snapper,Tailor and Mackerel just to name a few.  All fishing gear provided . (but your welcome to bring your own)

Enquiries or bookings  

Hobie Luxury Kayaks

The Hobie Pro Angler is not your normal run of the mill kayak. They are the ultimate in user friendly kayaks.  Comfort, simplicity and stability equals excellent safety and client satisfaction for all levels of experience .  The Pro Angler is powered by the efficient push pedal system (not paddle) which allows you to be hands free and travel further with less effort.  

I use PEDAL KAYAKS NOT PADDLE !

I have 6 single kayaks and a large double kayak (max 7 people).

$250 per adult (ONE ON ONE TOUR)

$150 per adult for 2 or more adults. 

$70 p/ child 17 & under (Max 6 people)

Departs 8.30 am ish  Upper Scamander RD Jetty (C421) 

Scamander River is a sheltered, family friendly, is suitable for beginners, 20 minutes from St Helens/ 5 min from Scamander

Georges Bay St Helens

$250 per adult (0NE ON ONE TOUR)

$70 p/child 17 & under (Max 6 people)

Departs 8.30 am ish from St Helens Wharf boat ramp 

  Tour subject to favorable tide and weather conditions.

Anson's Bay and River

Departs 8.30am ish from Ansons Bay boat ramp. 

Ansons Bay and River is a sheltered, family friendly and suitable for beginners, and only 30 minutes from St Helens

$ 250 ONE ON ONE TOUR $ 150 p/p  2 or more people $ 70 p/ch 17 & u  On site for 4 hours Tour between 5 to 6 hours Meet at  Weldborough Pub 45 min from St Helens or 25 min from Derby

              Mob/txt: 0435 914 869

Other Secrets of St Helens 

Peron dunes, the beaches.

The Tip Shop

Please book through email or mobile phone. Please feel free to contact me (Mark) if you have any questions.  

[email protected]

0435 914 869

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Freycinet Peninsula Kayak Expedition

Paddle, hike and camp in the spectacular coastal region of the freycinet peninsula.

• 6 days kayaking
• 5 nights camping
• 5 Breakfasts

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Trip highlights

• Kayaking to and exploring the inaccessible eastern coastline
• Enjoying the delicious local food and wine
• Hiking Mt Freycinet, the highest point on the peninsula
• Camping in stunning beach locations

Why Book With Us

• Kayaks and all safety gear provided
• Over 30 years experience operating sea kayaking

The Freycinet Peninsula, located on Tasmania’s east coast, is one of Australia’s most iconic national parks. The Freycinet Peninsula is a paddler’s dream with turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, orange boulders lining the shores and mountains of granite rising from the sea. The scenery is truly spectacular. The park boasts some 49 endemic Tasmanian species of animals including echidnas, wombats, wallabies and potoroos. The ocean is rich in marine life, including Australian Fur seals, dolphins and, on a seasonal basis, several species of whales. This trip includes paddling to Schouten Island, exploring the inaccessible eastern coastline and a hike to Mt Freycinet, the highest point on the Peninsula. Join us on this six day adventure as we paddle, hike and camp in one of Australia’s most amazing coastal environments.

Activities:

Day 1 depart hobart, transfer to the freycinet national park, kayak briefing and outing.

Meals:   L,D

Day 2 Paddle to Cooks Beach campsite, optional hike to the summit of Mt Freycinet

Meals:   B,L,D

Day 3 Paddle across the Schouten passage to Schouten Island

Day 4 kayak to wineglass bay, day 5 explore the northern section of the freycinet peninsula, day 6 morning paddle and walk, return to hobart.

Meals:   B,L

What's included

• Professional kayaking guides
• 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners, all snacks
• National Park entry and camping fees
• Tent, mat, sleeping bag and liner (notify us if you prefer to bring your own)
• All cooking equipment including cups, plates and eating utensils
• Toilet paper, toilet kit, antibacterial hand gel
• Return transfers between Hobart city and the Freycinet National Park
• Double or single expedition kayaks, paddles, pfd, spray skirts
• Two 20L dry bags for your sleeping bag and clothes
• Emergency communications and group first-aid kit
• Waterproof paddling jacket, pogies (paddling mitted)

What's not included

• Travel to and from Hobart
• Accommodation before or after the trip
• Items of a personal nature: alcoholic beverages, car parking etc
• Travel insurance
• Face masks and hand sanitiser

Camping on Freycinet

We camp for fve nights in stunning beach locations. During the trip we’ll be self-sufficient and all food, water and camp gear are carried in the kayaks. Provided are twin share tents, or you may like to bring your own tent, provided it is of suitable size. Composting toilets are available at Hazards Beach, Cooks Beach, Wineglass Bay and Friendly Beaches. There are no shower facilities. All camping gear, including cooking equipment, is supplied.

Our paddling will mostly take place in Great Oyster Bay, which is sheltered from the open ocean swell. However, we do hope to access the spectacular cliffs on the east coast of Freycinet Peninsula and to do so may require up to three hours in a kayak with the possibility of landing or launching in small waves. For the most part, the paddling is of moderate level and some previous kayaking experience is recommended. You do not need to be an expert kayaker or know how to roll, however, it is important to have a sound level of ftness and, most of all, a sense of adventure. The degree of difficulty of the trip will depend on the weather we encounter. We ask that all participants feel confident in swimming. In general, the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the paddling. It’s a good idea to begin some regular exercise like walking, jogging, cycling or swimming well before the trip. If you have not paddled before, consider organising some tuition before your trip.

Per Person, Twin Share

Select your dates and book now

The following errors occured:, frequently asked questions, what will the weather be like.

Freycinet Peninsula has a cool, temperate climate dominated by the westerly flow of winds that blow across the Southern Ocean. November to April are the warmest months with air temperatures ranging from as low as 8°C to a comfortable 23°C, although fluctuations above and below these averages are common, often all in the space of a day! The ocean temperatures remain relatively stable over the course of the year, averaging between a refreshing 13-17°C from November to April. While rain can occur at any time of year, the summer months are typically dominated by a warm, dry northerly stream of air.

? Do I need previous experience sea kayaking?

Our paddling will mostly take place in Great Oyster Bay, which is sheltered from the open ocean swell. However, we do hope to access the spectacular cliffs on the east coast of Freycinet Peninsula and to do so may require up to three hours in a kayak with the possibility of landing or launching in small waves. For the most part, the paddling is of moderate level and some previous kayaking experience is recommended. You do not need to be an expert kayaker or know how to roll, however, it is important to have a sound level of ftness and, most of all, a sense of adventure. The degree of difficulty of the trip will depend on the weather we encounter. We ask that all participants feel confident in swimming.

? What kayaks are used on the trip?

The kayaks used are Wilderness Systems Tsunami singles and Mission Eco Niizh doubles, all sit-in with rudder. The kayaks are stable, easy to paddle and control and suited for beginners to experts. On day one of the trip you will be given a thorough briefing on all aspects of sea kayaking techniques with ample time to practice and familiarise yourself with the kayaks.

Paddles used are Werner Skagit at 220cm length. All paddles are split for easy adjustment to suit your style.

Other equipment supplied include your pfd (life jacket), one 20 litre dry bag, a set of pogies (paddling mittens), cagoule (an over-the-head style jacket that has seals on the waist, wrist and neck offering protection from wind and rain).

? When should I arrive in Hobart?

The trip starts on day 1 with an early morning pick up from your hotel. You will need to arrive into Hobart the day before your trip starts.

Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole , which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals .

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River Derwent Kayak Descent

Tourists take the road. Travellers descend the river.

The mighty River Derwent flows from Australia’s deepest lake and is Tassie’s purest water source or so we think. Cascading through a series of hydro stations, she’s a much-celebrated blue-collar worker. Powering Tasmania homes, nourishing Derwent Valley’s world-class produce and quenching the thirst of thousands before making her way to our entry point. Here she’s all joy. Battling nothing. Babbling wild secrets and gossip.

We head off on our kayaks where the current is swift & the scenery spectacular. You’ll be the master of your own ‘yak’ weaving past Tassie’s biggest platypus on the river surface and sighting wedge-tail eagles as they soar above the world’s tallest trees. You’ll float by sprawling hop fields, glide over ancient seabeds and get your heart rate up navigating through a few natural rollercoasters.

Our local guides will be there with you doing most of the heavy lifting. We’ll let you in on her closely guarded secrets, providing expert instruction, making sure you don’t miss the secret waterfall and keeping spirits high with a chef prepared riverside lunch and snacks. Our four-wheeled chariot will be awaiting you at the takeout with high fives and a sun warmed towel before returning you back to town so you can continue to discover the story of the Derwent Valley while you bask in the adventure afterglow, debrief with a local brew all without the worry of paddling back upstream.

Departure Times

Evening departures every day from October to April

From AUD $150.00 Product code : DERWENT

• Transfers to and from Gretna. Meeting point located approximately 50 minutes from Hobart’s CBD.
• Introductory kayak briefing and safety demonstration.
• 4-hour professionally guided paddle down the River Derwent.
• Fully catered morning tea & lunch made from fresh and in season local Derwent Valley produce.
• Photos of the day. Wet suits are available for rent for $10 pp. You will get a little wet! Spray jackets are also provided.
• All guests will be provided with their own premium Hobie sit-on-top kayak and all safety equipment.Tandem kayaks are available by request for children and not so confident guests.Weight capacity for the single Hobie Lani kayaks are 113 kg. Weight capacity for the tandem kayak is 193 kg.
• Kayaking experience not required however all guests must have basic swimming skills and general mobility/fitness. Trip follows the moving flow of the river and is not particularly strenuous. There are a few introductory Grade 2 rapids to negotiate. These are moving water sections with smaller waves, clear channels that are obvious without scouting and well-managed by guides. Some steering might be required, and instruction is provided by guides. If you need further information about whether this trip is suitable for you or your group, please contact us before booking. With over 10 years’ experience guiding on the River Derwent we’ve seen guests for 7 – 87 complete the trip who have had little or no kayak experience.
• Coach transfer are available from Hobart for participants without their own transport. Please go to Transport Tasmania

Tour Duration

Approximately 4 hours from pick up to drop off.

PREREQUISITES

All guests must be able to swim a length of a 25m swimming pool – a good quality ‘doggie’ paddle acceptable. All guests will be provided with a lifejacket.

General fitness and mobility are required but you do not need to have any previous kayak experience.

Can you sit, walk unaided free from serious pain and have basic swimming skills? You’re good to book this tour.  If not, please email  [email protected]  and we may be able to support you to join.

We do have both tandem and single kayaks.  We absolutely recommend single kayaks for this trip however please email us if you require a tandem.

Availability

Can’t find availability for the date you’re visiting? Wanting to organise a group booking? Contact us on 0417 008 422 or [email protected] and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Information

• Tassie Bound Adventure Tours
• 2622 Gordon Road, National Park TAS 7140
• 0417 008 422
• [email protected]

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Best Tasman Adventure & Kayaking

Multiday kayaking adventure exploring the spectacular Tasman Peninsula

Much of the Tasman Peninsula is protected as national park, and with its beauty and natural diversity, it is a spectacular kayaking destination. You will kayak past Australia's highest sea cliffs, soaring to over 300 metres, amazing blowholes and deep sea caves. Abundant marine life and sea birds are guaranteed. On land there are options for short walks including to explore fascinating coastal rock formations such as Tessellated Pavement. Each night we return to a comfortable bed at our exclusive beachfront accommodation with private rooms (double or twin share) and shared facilities. 

Planned paddles routes include:

• Cape Hauy on the famous Three Capes Track, including the amazing Totem Pole and Candlestick rock formations 
• Pirates Bay with its many arches and secret sea caves
• Lagoon Bay / Cape Frederick Hendrick - the site where Europeans first landed on Tasmanian soil, and one of the largest privately owned coastal properties on the east coast of Tasmania
• Eaglehawk Neck - soaring dolerite sea cliffs

The all inclusive trip package includes:

• Double kayaks and all kayaking equipment (including waterproof jackets and dry bags)
• Three nights accommodation at Pavilions on Pirates (double or twin share)
• All food and drinks
• National Park fees
• Transfers to and from Hobart
• Two experienced kayak guides

Not included:

• Travel to and from Hobart
• Accommodation before and after the tour
• Travel insurance

$2450 per person

2023 Departure Dates

TBA - Please contact us to be advised when dates are available. 

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Why you’ll love it

Sea kayaking is the ultimate way to just stop and wander. The east coast’s mild climate and calm weather creates prime conditions for kayaking. Paddling the region’s calm seas is an excellent way to experience the coast and observe its abundant bird and marine life. Take a short, guided sea kayaking tour, join a multi-day expedition or hire your own kayak and paddling gear to explore the east coast from the water.

Where you’ll find it

Freycinet is the must-do location for sea kayaking in Tasmania. For novice kayakers, a guided sea kayaking experience is the best option for exploring the East Coast from the water.

Freycinet Adventures at Coles Bay offers a range of guided sea kayaking experiences. Take a morning or evening to join the award-winning, Freycinet Paddle for an unforgettable way to see Freycinet’s coastline and encounter wildlife—from sea eagles and gulls to little penguins, dolphins and perhaps even a migrating whale.  Lonely Planet has named the Twilight Freycinet Paddle one of Tasmania’s top ten outdoor adventures.

Already a paddler? If you’re a seasoned kayaker you can elect to bring your own kayak and seek out choice paddling spots along the East Coast. Sea kayak rental is available from Freycinet Adventures for groups of two or more experienced paddlers.

Secret River Tours provides a personalised service for the adventurous traveller looking for a unique Tasmanian kayaking experience.  Secret River Tours features the luxury class, Hobie Pro Angler kayak, famous for its stability, safety, efficiency and superior comfort making your experience a memorable one for all the right reasons.  Secret River Tours will let you in on the closely guarded secrets of the bays and rivers of North East Tasmania.

How long will you need?

Kayaking experiences on the east coast range from three-hour guided paddling trips to overnight or multi-day expeditions.

To help plan your visit, you can check our travel times and driving distances .

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​​​​​Tasmania’s oceans and rivers have a well-deserved reputation as some of the cleanest in the world, and what better way to explore these wondrous waterways than up-close and self-propelled.  Whether you are a novice looking for a gentle ocean paddle or an experienced river rafter after the thrills of white water, take the opportunity to enjoy our waters under your own steam.​​​​

Paddling on white water can be extremely hazardous. Before tackling any of the rivers listed be sure to check the  safety information below, for information on difficulty and grading of white water ​rivers.

Wh​​ere to do it

Mersey river – mersey white water regional reserve.

The Mersey River in the state’s north-west is a popular location for locals and visitors to test their skills.  Fed by the waters released from the Rowallan Power Station, the site is a former host of the National Slalom Championships and offers challenging white water rafting and kayaking.

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers Na​tional Park​

The Franklin River is one of the most remote, challenging and committing rivers in Tasmania and should only be attempted by experienced paddlers or those in the company of a qualified, experienced guide. 

This ​river contains numerous grade 2 – 5 rapids, with some grade 6 at high water, with water levels that can fluctuate quickly at any time of year. There are numerous hazards such as log jams and strainers requiring compulsory portages.​ 

If you are considering tackling this river be sure to check Paddle About Tasmania​  to learn about river gradings and see​ the safety information links below.

The Franklin River was the site of the most widely known wilderness conservation battle in Australian history, the Franklin Dam blockade.  The success of this campaign has enabled this remote river in Tasmania’s south-west to retain its wild, pristine nature and an extended rafting trip through the area’s temperate rainforests is an exhilarating way to see this part of the world.

Freycinet N​ational Park

Sea kayaking offers the perfect way to explore Freycinet National Park’s pure waters, calm coastline and towering pink granite cliffs.  The relatively sheltered waters of Coles Bay allow for all experience levels to enjoy the waters.  Tour companies in the area run a variety of sea kayaking experiences and are recommended if you are new to paddling. 

​Tasman Nati​onal Park

Fortescue Bay is an excellent starting point for a day of coastal exploring that takes in fluted sea cliffs, sheltered coves, shipwrecks and sea life. This is an ideal place to catch a glimpse of dolphins, Australian fur seals and migrating whales as you paddle around the rugged coastline and striking rock formations.  Weather is variable and the conditions on the Tasman Peninsula ​ can change dramatically, so check the forecast before you head out. If the weather is favourable, you may be able to explore a few sea caves along the way.

Southwest Natio​nal Park

Located in Tasmania’s remote south-western wilderness, Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour have acted as a beacon for adventure sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Access to the area is challenging, so be prepared to walk for 6 to 8 days or take a flight to Melaleuca , a former mining settlement located in Southwest National Park .  Guided tours operate in the area and allow visitors to explore the tannin-rich waters and quartzite shoreline for a remote wilderness experience.  

Cradle Mo​untain - Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Dove Lake is a great place for kayaking and canoeing with sheltered sandy beaches, towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and tiny islands to explore. The relatively sheltered waters allow for all experience levels, however visitors should check the weather forecast before paddling as conditions can deteriorate quickly. If you are new to paddling or need to hire equipment, there is a tour operator at Cradle that can assist. Please contact the Visitor Centre for more information.​

Safety In​​formation

Be sure to learn about the gradings and complexities of the Tasmanian white water rivers on Pa​ddle Tas​​ . Also check Education and Safety information on  Paddle Australia .

Know the conditions before you set out, check with the Bureau of Meteorology website .

Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) has paddle safety information​ to give you some hints and tips for paddling in Tasmania.

Getting there

Where possible, please avoid driving in our reserves at night. You are sharing the roads with our native wildlife, so take it slow and watch out for animals on the road.

Know before you go

Paddling on white water rivers in Tasmania can be highly hazardous. Before attempting white water, learn about the gradings and complexities of the Tasmanian white water rivers on  Paddle About Tasmania.  

Check out Education and Safety on  Paddle Australia .

Know the conditions before you set out, check with the  Bureau of Meteorology website .

Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST)  has paddle safety information to give you some hints and tips for paddling in Tasmania.​

​Find out other essential information for visiting Tasmania's parks and reserves on our know before you go section .

Safety message

​Be sure to learn about the gradings and complexities of the Tasmanian white water rivers on Paddle About Tasmania​ . Also check Education and Safety information on Paddle Australia .​

Before you go paddling, refer to Marine and ​Safety Tasmania's​ essential paddle craft safety tips:

• Always wear a PFD (personal floatation device - life jacket)
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
• Never venture too far offshore – weather changes can be quick and severe
• Do not paddle so far that you can not get back – fitness is important
• Spend some time close to shore to get used to your kayak or canoe
• Try to paddle in company where possible
• Check your canoe or kayak prior to each trip for leaks or cracks
• Seek local knowledge if paddling in new and unknown waters
• Always check the latest weather forecast. 

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Tasmania’s 10 best hiking trails

• Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

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