Embark on a Kayaking journey in Australia’s most wild and remote paddling destination. An unforgettable 8-Day sea kayaking expedition though Tasmania’s breathtaking South West Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Length
8 Days (6.5 days kayaking)
Trip Style
Tent based, Multi day Expedition
Location
Bathurst Harbour and Port Davey, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area
For who
Anyone with camping and outdoor experience and a general level of fitness
When
December through to March
Explore remote and rarely visited wilderness
Amazing wilderness days with challenges, rewards and remote, dramatic landscapes.
Fly across World Heritage coastlines and mountain ranges to land deep in Southwest Tasmania – explore the wilderness waterways of Bathurst Harbour and Port Davey by sea kayak – paddle through changing landscapes from campsite to campsite – these are the attractions and challenges of our 8-Day Sea Kayaking Expedition.
Our guides know this pristine wilderness intimately – all the sheltered bays and open beaches, the peaks and islands, every hidden corner and comfortable campsite. After a spectacular flight to the remote airstrip at Melaleuca, we explore one of Tasmania’s and Australia’s most remote and beautiful coastlines, paddling through perfect reflections in the tannin-stained waters, beneath mountains that rise from the shore.
This trip has a flexible itinerary with time for optional short walks or relaxing on the beach. Your nights will be spent in remote and hidden campsites throughout the expansive waterway. Every night you’ll enjoy delicious food with a glass of wine.
Travelling at paddling pace allows you to move quietly through this wild landscape, covering more distance than on foot yet leaving no trace behind. With kayaks carrying the gear, food and everything we need, we can journey deep into the wilderness without the burden of a heavy pack!
The adventure begins...
The journey begins at Cambridge Airport near Hobart with a 40-50 minute scenic flight. Our pilot decides whether to fly along the remote beaches of the South Coast, or over the wild Eastern Arthur Ranges before landing on the gravel strip at Melaleuca.
Our first night is spent here, giving us all time to immerse ourselves in the relaxed pace of the Southwest Tasmanian wilderness. After setting up camp we will provide an orientation of the sea kayaks. There will also be time to explore Melaleuca, including the Deny King Museum, Needwonee Aborignal Interpretative Walk, historic tin mining areas and looking out for the endangered Orange-bellied Parrots who breed here over summer.
The first evening your guides will, over a convivial glass of wine, discuss itinerary options for the expedition after careful assessment of the weather conditions. We’re kayaking in a remote wilderness area and there are plenty of options for outstanding paddling destinations.
An example itinerary is available in our Trip Essentials Guide. Download it now for free!
The Route
Our 8-day expedition is designed with one key goal: to exploring as much of this vast World Heritage wilderness as the weather allows.
With no fixed itinerary, each day is shaped by the conditions. Our experienced guides use their deep local knowledge and up-to-date forecasts to create a flexible, safe, and rewarding route—maximising your time on the water and in the wild.
You’ll fly into Melaleuca, spend the first day settling in and exploring nearby, then set off on 6.5 days of paddling through remote harbours, wild coastline, and pristine river systems—discovering hidden campsites and unforgettable views along the way.
No two trips are the same, but every journey is an adventure.
What to expect
This is no ordinary outdoor adventure —it’s an immersive wilderness experience.
Over 8 days, you’ll journey deep into Tasmania’s remote southwest by sea kayak, surrounded by towering mountain ranges, mirror-calm waterways, and the raw beauty of Port Davey.
You can expect early mornings, big skies, and a deep sense of connection to the natural world. While we provide everything you need—meals, gear, expert guides—the real luxury is time: time to slow down, disconnect, and explore one of the most untouched corners of the planet, at paddling pace.
The Weather
The ever-changing weather of Tasmania’s southwest is part of what makes this World Heritage-listed wilderness so unforgettable. One moment you’re paddling under clear blue skies, the next you’re enveloped in misty rain—the landscape shifting with the light and the elements that shape the landscape.
In summer, daytime temperatures can range anywhere from a crisp 10°C to a warm 35°C, with cooler evenings often dipping below 10°C. Rain or drizzle is part of the experience here—adding mood, magic and a true sense of the wild.
With the right gear, you’ll stay comfortable and fully immersed in the adventure. That’s why we provide a detailed packing list, and strongly recommend quality wet-weather clothing and warm thermal layers to keep you safe, dry and smiling—no matter what the weather brings.
This is no ordinary outdoor adventure —it’s an immersive wilderness experience. Over 8 days, you’ll journey deep into Tasmania’s remote southwest by sea kayak, surrounded by towering mountain ranges, mirror-calm waterways, and the raw beauty of Port Davey. You can expect early mornings, big skies, and a deep sense of connection to the natural world. While we provide everything you need—meals, gear, expert guides—the real luxury is time: time to slow down, disconnect, and explore one of the most untouched corners of the planet, at paddling pace.
The Camp Sites
This is a true expedition style trip, meaning we will move from camp to camp as we make our way through massive waterway. If we find the perfect location we may choose to spend two nights camped at the same campsite.
We provide double or single tents depending on your preference as well as comfortable mats and sleeping bags.
The Food
Great adventures deserve great food—and we’ve spent years perfecting a menu that delivers just that. Each evening, our experienced guides prepare hearty, delicious meals designed to fuel your body after a day on the water.
Our expedition menu strikes the perfect balance of energy, nutrition, and freshness, carefully planned to last the full duration of the trip without compromising on taste or quality.
We proudly cater to all major dietary requirements—including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and more. Just let us know your needs when you book, and we’ll make sure you’re well looked after with meals that are both nourishing and tailored to you.
Check Availability & Book Your Trip
Pick a date from our real-time calendar and select the number of people in your group. Fill out your details to complete the booking.
Make sure to read our Trip Essentials Guide to help you prepare for the journey ahead.
COST
$4250
PER PERSON
(2025 / 26)
DEPOSIT
$400
PER PERSON
PAID AT BOOKING
ALL TOURS ALSO AVAILABLE AS GIFT VOUCHERS.
What’s included?
- Transfers between Hobart and Cambridge Airport
- Scenic 40-50 minute return flight from Hobart to Melaleuca
- All meals (with an emphasis on fresh Tasmanian produce) and refreshments, a glass of wine or two each evening
- Good quality camping equipment specifically selected for wilderness safety and comfort
- Two highly-experienced kayaking guides
- Comfortable and stable double sea kayaks
- All specialist paddling equipment (good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray deck, buoyancy vest, duffle bag, and dry-bags)
- National park entry fees
Customer Testimonials
GET OUR KAYAK TRIP ESSENTIALS BOOKLET
Embark on the ultimate kayaking adventure in Tasmania’s wilderness. Download our “Trip Essentials” booklet for expert insights and gear recommendations. Explore remote beaches, stunning mountains, and hidden coves. Experience the thrill of a scenic flight and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature. Unleash your sense of adventure and join us for an unforgettable kayaking journey.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Expedition kayaking for me?
If you love bushwalking and exploring wild places, expedition kayaking might be your perfect next adventure. Sea kayaks are an incredibly efficient way to travel through rugged landscapes — you glide along the waterways rather than pounding the track on your knees and joints. Unlike carrying a heavy pack, your kayak does the hard work, leaving you free to soak up the scenery. Expedition kayaks also have plenty of space to carry good food and quality equipment, so you can enjoy wilderness comfort without compromise.
Do I need to be an experienced kayaker?
You don’t need prior kayaking experience to join, just a general level of fitness and a love of the outdoors. If you can enjoy camping or overnight bushwalking or multiday guided hikes, you’ll find expedition kayaking very achievable, with the bonus that your kayak carries the gear instead of you.
Expect to spend up to two hours at a time in the kayak, travelling at a relaxed pace with our guides helping you refine your paddle technique throughout the trip.
Being comfortable with wilderness camping and ready to embrace the challenge of adventure will make this an unforgettable way to experience Tasmania’s wild places.
What gear do I need to bring?
A full gear list is provided in our Trip Essentials brochure which you can download for 8-day expeditions here or 4-day explorations here, but essentially you need clothing for each day, including thermals for paddling, quick-drying outer layers, rain jackets and pants, and a sleeping bag.
All other equipment is supplied, including tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, cooking equipment and utensils, paddling jacket and pants, 2 dry bags, buoyancy vest, spray skirt, paddles and all other relevant paddling equipment.
You will also be supplied with a 70-litre gear bag at Cambridge Airport. Due to weight and space limitations in both the aircraft and kayaks your entire personal luggage must fit into this gear bag. We can store any remaining luggage for the duration of your trip.
What does the trip package include?
- Transfers between Hobart and Cambridge Airport (scenic one hour return flight to Melaleuca)
- All meals and refreshments (with a focus on fresh Tasmanian produce)
- A glass of wine each evening.
- For camping expeditions: good quality camping equipment, including tents, Xped 7cm sleeping mat, sleeping bag
- Two highly-experienced kayaking guides
- Comfortable and stable double sea kayaks
- All specialist paddling equipment (good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray skirt, buoyancy vest, duffel bag, and dry bags)
- National Park entry fee
What is excluded from the trip package?
- Flights to Hobart
- Travel insurance (highly recommended in case of cancellations or delays due to weather)
Can I join the trip on my own and does it cost more?
We welcome single bookings and most of our expeditions have a mix of couples and singles. We will provide singles with a one-person tent and you would share a double kayak with another single traveler or a guide.
We DO NOT charge a single supplement for single bookings.
How many people in the group?
By having group sizes of 4 to 10 with 2 guides we are able to provide all participants with an intimate encounter with Tasmania’s famous World Heritage Wilderness.
What will the camping be like?
As this is an expedition trip, we will be camping at different camp sites during the trip, we may spend multiple nights at some campsites such as Bramble Cove to allow us to explore Port Davey and make the most of the weather conditions.
Most campsites allow for mountain climbs and beach walks.
What are the guides like?
We are lucky to have a team of professional guides whom return each summer to share their passion for Tasmania. All our guides have sea kayaking qualifications with Paddle Australia or equivilant. You can expect highly skilled and knowledgeable guides that are also, of course, friendly, approachable and good cooks!
Are there biosecurity rules for bringing outdoor equipment into Tasmania?
Yes! The greatest threat to Tasmania’s land plants is an introduced plant disease called root rot. The disease is caused by a microscopic soil-borne pathogen (Phytophthora cinnamomi), which lives inside a plant’s roots and gradually kills its host. Root rot is spread on the muddy boots and camping gear of visitors. Once root rot infects an area, it cannot be removed.
Your hiking boots and any camping equipment must be thoroughly cleaned of all dirt and mud before you leave home. A wash-down station is provided at the Cambridge Airport for an additional clean before our flight.
How far/long will we paddle each day?
On a typical day though we aim to paddle for approximately 2-3 hours in the morning and 2-3 hours in the afternoon. Sometimes we may spend an afternoon or morning enjoying a short walk instead of paddling. Paddling speed is relaxed i.e. it is like going for a relaxed walk rather than a sprint.
On an average 8 Day trip we would cover up to 120km
Do you have a set itinerary?
Due to the unique nature of this area, and the variability of the weather that it experiences, we have no fixed route or schedule. Whilst we do our best to fulfil the wishes and aspirations of our participants, our first priority is participant safety. The number of days paddling, and the number of hours in the kayaks on each of those days, is highly variable and dependent upon both participants and conditions. Our guides are highly experienced at optimising the route to make the most of prevailing conditions.
What weather can I expect?
The dynamic weather is one of the many attractions of this unique World Heritage Area wilderness. Daytime summer temperatures can range from 10° to 35°C with at least one day of rain or drizzle to be expected; evening temperatures regularly drop below 10°C. In this moist maritime environment, quality wet-weather gear and thermal garments are a necessity for your safety and comfort. Follow our gear list and you will be comfortable and prepared to enjoy the many variations of weather we may encounter.
What safety equipment do you provide?
The remote nature of this trip is part of what makes it a great adventure, but it also means that we need to very careful that everyone is prepared for the unforeseen. If you are taking any medications please be sure to let your guide know and bring an extra supply. It is also important that you let us know if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries.
All Roaring 40s Kayaking’s trip leaders hold sea kayaking and wilderness first aid qualifications. We carry an extensive first aid kit, satellite phone, location beacon, marine radio, flare kits and towing equipment in case of emergencies. We are proud to say that over the years Band-Aids have been the only safety items used.
Will my mobile phone work in the Southwest?
No! This trip is located in a remote area of Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area and there is no mobile reception anywhere. You will be able to enjoy your time in the wilderness with no electronic interruptions! We carry a satellite phone at all times for emergency use only.
What meals do you provide?
All meals, snacks and drinks are provided from the time you join us on day 1 to lunch on the last day. We cater for most dietary requirements (nut allergies, vegetarians, vegans, lactose/gluten intolerant). If you have a dietary requirement, you need to let us know when you book.
A glass of wine is provided with dinner each evening. If you would like to bring additional alcohol, please do not bring glass and remember that everything you bring must fit into the 70 litre gear bag you will be supplied with at Cambridge Airport.
What time do I need to be in Hobart?
We recommend you plan your arrival in Hobart the day prior, but at a minimum 2 hours prior to your tour departure (we can pick you up at Hobart Airport and transfer you to Cambridge Airport).
We highly recommend you do not arrange onward travel for at least 24 hours after our scheduled finish date and time. This is because access to this wilderness area is by light plane, which cannot operate in extreme weather or poor visibility. Roaring 40s Kayaking will not be responsible for any expenses incurred due to flight delays that are out of our control. We highly recommend that you purchase travel tickets that can be rebooked and obtain travel insurance to cover any expenses associated with such delays. In the eventuality of a departure delay we will endeavour to provide an additional day to your tour but this requires participants to have flexibility in their schedule.
Where do I meet up with my tour group?
The meeting point for the start of your kayaking adventure is at Hobart’s Cambridge Airport. We are able to pick up participants in Hobart City or at the Hobart Airport for transfers to Cambridge Airport. Note flight times do vary so check your confirmation for your meeting time.
Can I organise a private trip?
Yes, we can organise private trips for a minmum of 8 participants and a maximum of 10. Please contact us for more information.
Do I need to pay a deposit to secure my place?
For all bookings made more than 60 days prior to the scheduled trip date, a non-refundable deposit ($400 per person) is required to reserve your place. The balance is due 60 days prior to the departure date. For reservations made 60 days or less from the departure date, full payment must be made at the time of booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
- If you cancel your booking more than 60 days prior to departure you will forfeit your deposit.
- If you cancel your booking between 60 to 30 days prior to your departure, you will be charged 50% of your trip cost.
- If you cancel your booking inside 30 days of your departure date, you will be charged the full value of your booking. No refunds..
Roaring 40s Kayaking requires full payment 60 days prior to departure and reserves the right to cancel expeditions up until this date if there are insufficient numbers. In such a case, you will be given a choice of:
- Transferring payments towards another trip date; or
- The payment of an additional fee to have the trip run as scheduled; or
- Receiving a full refund.
In the event of such a cancellation, Roaring 40s Kayaking cannot be held responsible for any losses incurred by yourself, i.e. non-refundable airline tickets and Hobart accommodation. If for any reason whatsoever you cancel less than four weeks prior to your trip departure you will forfeit all payments. For this reason, we highly recommend you purchase travel insurance that covers losses due to unforseen events that result in cancellations, including having to cancel due to COVID.
Want to know more?
We’re happy to help! Just send us a message using the form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
