Flinders Island – the crown jewel of Tasmania’s remote Furneaux Group. Paddle beneath towering granite peaks, explore secluded coves and offshore islands, and relax each evening at our beachfront retreat as the sun sets over Bass Strait.
Length
7 Days
Trip Style
Beach Shack Accommodation. Weather directed day paddles and walking.
Location
Flinders Island, Tasmania
For who
No Paddling experience required
When
February through to April
Off the beaten track and rich in character
Flinders Island is the largest in Tasmania’s remote Furneaux Group, a chain of islands scattered across eastern Bass Strait. Off the beaten track and rich in character, it offers a truly special and authentic kayaking experience. The rhythm of the days is shaped by the tides and weather, revealing a coastline full of surprises—from the maze-like granite formations at The Docks to the tidal estuary of North East River.
Each evening, you’ll return to our beachside accommodation to unwind, enjoy local food and wine, and take in the changing colours over Strzelecki National Park.
The adventure begins...
Flinders Island in Bass Strait is the largest of 52 islands in the Furneaux Group. At around 70km from end to end, and half that in width, Flinders is the perfect size to explore – and by the end of your 7-day adventure, you will know much of its coastline intimately, and a good deal of its interior as well.
We’ll paddle to offshore islands and into secluded coves, slipping quietly between beautiful orange granite boulders. The water is so clear that you’ll see sand ripples, swaying kelp, and fish in abundance. Dolphins may also become frequent companions. At break times, we’ll pull ashore in a quiet cove, so you can explore the rocky headlands, swim and snorkel in the clear warm water, or simply laze on the beach.
Your late afternoon and evenings are spent at Sawyers Bay Beach Shacks. Here we have our own secluded beach, a large dining table, comfy lounge chairs and real beds! As we share stories of our day, the sun will set over Bass Strait; the distant Strzelecki Peak will change hue from orange-grey to pink-purple; pademelons and wallabies will arrive; and your glass will be refilled.
The Island
Flinders Island sits in eastern Bass Strait, between Tasmania and Victoria, and is the largest of the 52 islands that form the Furneaux Group. Named after explorer Matthew Flinders, who charted the Tasmanian coastline in 1798, the island is remote, welcoming, and full of character.
Home to around 1,000 permanent residents—many of whom mix work with the pleasures of island life—Flinders has a strong sense of community that swells during the summer months as visitors and seasonal residents arrive. Its main industries include grazing, fishing, and a growing tourism scene, with more and more people discovering the island each year.
The landscape is shaped by its ancient past. Once a land bridge connecting Tasmania and mainland Australia, Flinders became an island after the last Ice Age, leaving behind a string of rugged, granite outcrops across Bass Strait. Today, it’s a haven for wildlife, with wallabies, wombats, echidnas, and over 200 species of birds.
The island’s history is layered and complex—from thousands of years of Aboriginal presence to a darker chapter of sealing and forced exile. Modern Flinders Islanders are deeply proud and protective of their home, its stories, and its people.
And you’ll soon see why.
What to expect
This 7-day adventure is an exploration of Flinders Island, staying at the beautiful Sawyers Bay Beach Shacks. Each day, we’ll explore different sections of the island’s coastline moving around the island to seek out the best paddling spots for each days conditions. Expect a flexible itinerary shaped by the weather, briefed over dinner the previous night, we aim to paddle every day, but when the wind picks up, we’ll swap our paddles for walking shoes and explore on foot.
The pace is relaxed but adventurous, suitable for first time paddlers and experts alike, with plenty of time to soak up the wild beauty of this special place.
The Locations
Flinders Island is a sea kayaking gem—large enough to offer variety, yet small enough to get to know intimately over the course of a week. With coastline exposed to nearly every point on the compass, we have excellent options no matter which way the wind blows. From the island-dotted waters of Franklin Sound in the south, to the stunning granite formations of The Docks in the north, every location offers something different. We paddle past rocky headlands, explore quiet coves, visit some very special parts of the island, some of which are only accessible by kayak!
Our base at Sayers Bay Shacks puts us right in the heart of the action. Located directly on the beach, the shacks feature a sun-soaked deck perfectly positioned for watching the evening sun set over the bay — an unbeatable way to finish the day. This central location makes it the ideal base for daily sea kayaking adventures, allowing easy access to Flinders Island’s most iconic paddling routes, sheltered bays, and wildlife-rich waters. Whether we’re heading north, south, or somewhere in between, Sayers Bay offers comfort, convenience, and unbeatable views in one of Tasmania’s most beautiful coastal settings.
The Itinerary
We don’t follow a fixed route on Flinders Island—and that’s part of the magic. With ever-changing weather (including the famous Roaring Forties winds) and countless stunning locations to choose from, each day is shaped by the conditions and the energy of the group. Your guides will decide the best destination daily, ensuring we make the most of what the island has to offer. Wherever we go, it will be beautiful.
On a typical day, we aim for around 2–3 hours of paddling in both the morning and afternoon, moving at a gentle pace that allows you to take in every detail of the island’s dramatic coastline. When conditions don’t suit kayaking, we switch to walking—exploring wild coastal tracks, climbing a mountain, or discovering Flinders’ rich cultural history.
We often visit places like the Wybalenna historic site, a deeply significant Aboriginal settlement, or the Furneaux Museum, where the island’s colourful stories are kept alive by passionate locals.
Some of our favourite paddling destinations include:
- Sawyers Beach to Lillies Beach, Settlement Point
A relaxed afternoon paddle right from our doorstep, passing quiet beaches and granite-strewn headlands. In calm weather, we may paddle out to Wybalenna Island. - Killiecrankie Bay and The Docks
A stunning stretch with granite boulders, white sand, and turquoise water. Keep an eye out for ‘Killiecrankie diamonds’—semi-precious topaz found among the rocks. - Tanners Bay and Royden Island
Paddle through island-dotted waters to Royden Island, also known as “The Kayaker’s Island”—a key stop for those crossing Bass Strait. A rustic hut and white sand greet us here. - Palana Beach and North East River
At the island’s northern tip, explore a remote coastline with WWII history, sweeping beaches, and the tidal beauty of North East River—an important bird habitat. - Trousers Point to Lady Barron
Paddle beneath the towering cliffs of Mt Strzelecki before rounding into the peaceful port town of Lady Barron. - Lady Barron to the Dog Islands
These offshore gems—Greater Dog, Little Dog, and Little Green—sit in the clear waters of Franklin Sound, rich with birdlife and local muttonbirding heritage.
Every trip is unique, but one thing stays the same: you’ll come away with a deep connection to this remarkable island.
The Accommodation
Our base for the week is Sawyers Bay Beach Shacks—private, comfortable, and right on the water with the beach right out front! The two beach houses offer private rooms, shared open-plan living spaces, hot showers, and big decks with sweeping views over Bass Strait. Mount Strzelecki looms in the distance, glowing pink and purple in the late afternoon light. Wallabies and pademelons often graze nearby, and on still evenings you may spot dolphins close to shore. It’s a peaceful setting that allows you to fully relax and settle into island life and recover from the days adventures.
The Food
You’ll be well-fed with meals designed to fuel days of paddling and walking, while showcasing the flavors of the island. Expect fresh local produce, tasty homemade meals, and a glass of Tasmanian wine or beer with dinner. Dietary needs are happily catered for—just let us know in advance.
One of the highlights of the trip is our final evening celebration, where you’ll enjoy a special dinner prepared in house, by a local chef using the island’s best seasonal ingredients.
How to Get There
Your Flinders Island adventure begins with a scenic flight across Bass Strait with Flinders Island Aviation. Most guests join us via charter flight from Launceston, arriving in time to settle in and hit the water on day one. These flights provide breathtaking views over the sparkling blue water and islands of Bass Strait and are available as return or one-way flights. If you would like to stay extra days on Flinders Island or fly direct from Melbourne you can also book flights direct with Sharp Airlines.
Please note: flights to and from Flinders Island are not included in the trip price. If you are making your own way there, we’ll meet you at the Flinders Island Airport and take care of everything from there.
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
$3800
PER PERSON
(2025/26)
DEPOSIT
$400
PER PERSON
PAID AT BOOKING
OPTIONAL CHARTER FLIGHT
$240
PER PERSON
EACH WAY
ALL TOURS ALSO AVAILABLE AS GIFT VOUCHERS.
Trip package includes:
- Transport on Flinders Island
- Six nights accommodation at Sawyers Bay Beach Shacks (shared facilities)
- All linen (bedding and towels)
- Two highly experienced kayaking guides
- Comfortable and stable double sea kayaks
- Paddling equipment (good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray deck, buoyancy vest and a dry bag)
- National Park entry fees
- All meals and refreshments (we focus on fresh Flinders Island produce)
- A glass of wine or beer each evening
- A gourmet meal on the final night prepared by an amazing local chef
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
What gear do I need to bring?
A full gear list is provided in our Trip Essentials brochure (see top of this page to download), but essentially you need clothing for each day (including lightweight thermals for paddling), paddling booties/sandals, swim gear (e.g. bathers, towel, goggles, mask and snorkel), walking shoes and clothes for short bushwalks, rain jacket, and one casual outfit for a dinner out.
All other equipment is supplied, including linen (bedding and bath towel), paddling jacket, buoyancy vest, spray deck, dry bag, paddles.
Our Charter Flight option has a 15kg checked baggage limit, so your gear will need to be within this limit.
What does the trip package include?
- Transport on Flinders Island
- All meals and refreshments (with a focus on fresh Flinders Island produce)
- A glass of wine or beer each evening.
- Five nights accommodation at Sawyers Bay Beach Shacks (shared facilities), all linen (bedding and towels)
- Two highly-experienced kayaking guides
- Comfortable and stable double sea kayaks
- All specialist paddling equipment (good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray deck, buoyancy vest and a dry bag)
- National Park entry fees.
What is excluded from the trip package?
- Travel to and from Flinders Island
- Accommodation before or after trip
- Airport car parking
- Travel insurance
How do I get to and from Flinders Island?
We offer a Charter Flight option With Flinders Island Aviation which Departs Launceston at 10am on the first day of the trip and returns to Launceston at approximately 1:30pm on the final day.
The cost of the Charter flight is $240 per person, one way or $480 return
You are welcome to book one way if you plan on extending your stay on Flinders Island before or after our trip. You will need to make your own arrangements for flights if not booking on to our charter flight.
Sharp Airlines have direct flights from Launceston and Melbourne (Essendon Airport).
What does the accommodation look like?
Your accommodation comprises two comfortable beach houses, set a short distance apart, behind the dunes overlooking the secluded Sawyers Beach. The main house has the common dining room, kitchen and lounge. Both houses have bedrooms and bathrooms. Some rooms have double beds, others have bunk beds. All linen is provided. (http://www.sawyersbayshacks.com.au/).
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 Flinders Island experience.
I’m a single traveller, what are my options?
If you wish to have your own room, a 50% surcharge will apply. Otherwise, single travellers will share a room, with bunk beds.
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.
Expect to spend up to 2.5 hours at a time in the kayak, travelling at a relaxed pace with our guides helping you refine your paddle technique throughout the trip.
How far/long will we paddle each day?
On a typical day 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’s more of a walk than a sprint.
Do you have a set itinerary?
Due to the variability of the weather (including Roaring Forties winds) and the range of options available, we have no fixed schedule. Our guides will decide each day’s itinerary based on the weather. Whilst we do our best to fulfil your wishes, our first priority is your safety. The number of days paddling and the number of hours paddling per day depends upon participants and the weather. There may be days when kayaking is not possible due to strong winds. On these days we find a great spot to walk – and there are many to choose from. Bring suitable footwear and clothing.
What weather can I expect?
The climate on Flinders Island is generally mild (by Tasmanian standards) as the sea has a moderating effect, protecting the islands from extremes of temperature. It’s cooler than Melbourne in summer and unexpectedly warmer in winter. And surprisingly, Flinders Island has more sunny days than the Gold Coast! Expect average temperatures in March and April between 12° to 22° degrees and at least one day of rain or drizzle. Flinders Island is located on the 40th parallel, with the Roaring Forties winds crossing the island.
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!
What safety equipment do you provide?
All 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.
Flinders Island has a resident doctor, pharmacy and emergency services. These services are some distance from our accommodation, so bring all the medication you will require for your trip. If you are taking medications with you when you are kayaking, please be sure to let the guide know, and include an extra supply packed separately in case your medications get wet. It is also important that you let us know if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries.
Will my mobile phone work on Flinders Island?
Mobile phone coverage is patchy at Sawyers Bay Shacks and across Flinders Island. Phones and cameras can be charged at Sawyers Bay Shacks. We highly recommend turning your phone off so that you can fully immerse yourself in island time on your 6-day island escape.
What meals do you provide?
All meals, snacks and drinks are provided from lunch on day 1 to lunch on the last day. We can cater for most dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, lactose/gluten intolerant). If you have a dietary requirement you need to let us know when you book.
A glass of wine or beer is provided with dinner each evening. If you would like additional alcohol there will be the opportunity to purchase it on the island.
Where do I meet up with my tour group?
If you book your flights with us we will meet you at Launceston Airport at 10am on the first day of your tour.
If you book your flights independently we will meet you at Flinders Island Airport at 12pm on the first day of your tour.
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 of $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?
- Bookings cancelled more than 60 days prior to departure will forfeit the deposit.
Bookings cancelled between 60 to 30 days prior to departure will be charged 50% of the trip cost.
Bookings cancelled inside 30 days prior to departure will be charged the full value of the 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, participants 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 participants, i.e. non-refundable airlines tickets and accommodation. If for any reason whatsoever a participant cancels less than four weeks prior to the trip departure, they will forfeit all payments. For this reason, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers losses due to unforeseen events that result in cancellations, including COVID cancellations.
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.
