2 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Hobart

Exploring Hobart’s waterways by paddle is one of Tasmania’s most rewarding adventures. Three excellent guided tours operate daily: a 2.5-hour city paddle, a half-day harbor excursion, and a full-day Tasman Peninsula journey. They’re well-organized affairs, with all equipment provided and expert instructors who share fascinating local stories.

I especially love the city paddle tour – it’s perfect for families and first-timers, offering close-up views of Hobart’s historic waterfront while keeping things manageable at just 2.5 hours. The full-day Tasman Peninsula tour is a standout for more adventurous types, combining dramatic coastline scenery with frequent wildlife encounters.

With free parking, flexible booking policies, and consistently high ratings from past paddlers, these top-rated tours offer great value. Let’s explore the best kayak and canoe tours in Hobart.

Good To Know

• Hobart offers a variety of kayaking tours, including a 2.5-hour city tour, a 7-hour cliffs/caves/beaches tour, and a 10-hour Tasman Peninsula tour.
• All tours include paddling techniques, regional narration, necessary equipment, and a local guide and lunch.
• The 2.5-hour city tour allows participants to paddle alongside various boats and enjoy a fish and chips snack.
• Longer tours offer opportunities to see wildlife like fur seals, dolphins, sea eagles, and penguins, as well as explore sea caves and sandy shores.
• With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 459 reviews, the Hobart Kayak Tours provide an enjoyable and safe experience for both novice and experienced paddlers.

Hobart Kayak Tour

The Hobart Kayak Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque waterfront of Hobart. The tour provides three kayaking options: a 2.5-hour city tour, a 7-hour cliffs, caves, and beaches tour, and a 10-hour Tasman Peninsula tour.

Regardless of the option chosen, the tours include paddling techniques and narration about the region. All necessary equipment, such as kayaks, life jackets, and spray jackets, as well as a local guide and lunch, are provided.

The meeting point is at 14 Marieville Esplanade, Sandy Bay, with free parking available. The shorter tour offers views of landmarks like Battery Point, while the longer tours feature rugged cliffs, sea caves, and sandy shores, with the potential to spot wildlife like fur seals, dolphins, sea eagles, and penguins.

With a 4.9 overall rating from 459 reviews and 100% of travelers recommending the tour, the Hobart Kayak Tour is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced paddlers looking to enjoy Hobart’s natural beauty.

Read our full review: Hobart Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability

Hobart City 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour

Departing from the Marieville Esplanade in Sandy Bay, the Hobart City 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour offers a captivating journey through the city’s bustling waterfront. Priced at $77.82 per person, this 2.5-hour tour allows participants to paddle alongside luxury yachts, tall ships, fishing boats, and modern cruisers, all while taking in the scenic views of Hobart from the water.

The tour includes a stable double sea kayak, quality paddling equipment, and weather-related protective gear, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Guests can look forward to a delightful fish and chips snack while kayaking, accompanied by insightful commentary and stories from the local guide.

Suitable for all skill levels, including families with young participants, the tour is a great way to explore Hobart’s harbor from a unique perspective.

With an impressive overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 16 reviews, this tour provides excellent value for money. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available for a full refund, making it a flexible and hassle-free activity to add to your Hobart itinerary.

Read our full review: Hobart City 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring on a Kayaking Tour?

When going on a kayaking tour, one should bring a few essential items. These may include a waterproof bag, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and any necessary personal items. Dressing in layers is also recommended for changing weather conditions.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?

Most tour operators have minimum age and fitness requirements to ensure the safety of participants. Typically, children must be at least 10-12 years old, and adults should be reasonably fit to handle the physical demands of kayaking.

How Much Prior Kayaking Experience Is Needed?

No prior kayaking experience is typically required for beginner-friendly tours. However, some advanced tours may have experience prerequisites. It’s best to check with the tour operator to understand the specific requirements for each excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Canoe?

Most tour operators allow participants to bring their own kayak or canoe, but it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand. Rental equipment is usually provided, but personal vessels may be accommodated if they meet safety requirements.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

When kayaking or canoeing, it’s important to wear a life jacket, check weather conditions, and be aware of water currents. Novice paddlers should consider guided tours for safety advice and support. Proper preparation ensures an enjoyable and safe experience on the water.

The Sum Up

Hobart offers fantastic kayak and canoe tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s picturesque waterways. Whether you choose the 2.5-hour Hobart City Kayak Tour or another option, you’ll have the chance to take in stunning views of the harbor, historic buildings, and surrounding mountains. These tours provide an excellent way to experience Hobart’s natural beauty and rich history from a unique perspective.