Slow down and immerse yourself into rainforests, mountain ranges and wilderness tranquillity, at paddling pace. Explore the ancient rainforest and still reflections of the Gordon River and Macquarie Harbour on this kayaking adventure
Length
7 Days
Trip Style
Tent based, Multi day Expedition
Location
Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River, West Coast Tasmania
For who
Anyone with camping and outdoor experience and a general level of fitness
When
November through January
Explore the ancient rainforest and still reflections
Within both the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River form a complex system of breathtaking rainforests and rugged mountain ranges, creating a place of utter tranquility.
The very best way to explore this natural wonder is on a multi-day kayaking expedition — gliding effortlessly through mirror-calm rivers and mist-shrouded valleys, carrying all the food and equipment you need without the burden of a heavy pack. Combining rich pining and convict history with the freedom of travelling at paddling pace, this is a truly majestic way to experience one of Tasmania’s greatest wilderness journeys.
The adventure begins...
The Gordon River and Macquarie Harbour nestle in a rugged landscape of dramatic and imposing mountain peaks. Pristine fresh waters coloured by tannins from surrounding vegetation trickle down from mountain peaks, running into creeks that cascade and twist through the rocks, combining to make the many rivers which eventually run into Macquarie Harbour.
The vast Macquarie Harbour is:
- Australia’s second largest natural harbour, after Victoria’s Port Phillip Bay
- Six times the size of Sydney Harbour
- 9km across and 35km long,
- Generally relatively shallow but up to 50m deep in parts.
It drains through the treacherous and aptly named Hell’s Gates – a 400m wide narrows at Macquarie Head.
In 1821, on the windswept and barren island of Sarah Island in the far reaches of the Harbour, a penal colony was set up. There are many dark tales of the convicts who escaped, choosing a dangerous journey over uncharted and wild mountain ranges – many dying in the attempt. It was also, surprisingly, the largest shipbuilding yard in the country during that time and the last ship built was sailed into notoriety by convicts.
Annual rainfall of over 1900mm promotes luxuriant growth including vast areas of wet temperate rainforest, buttongrass moorland and eucalypt forest. Wildlife abounds with platypus spied in the shallows of the wild rivers and echidnas and pademelons scurrying through the undergrowth. Birdsong often fills the air.
This magnificent area is probably best known as the site of the largest conservation battle ever fought in Australia: the fight to save the Franklin River. The issue dominated Tasmanian politics throughout the late 1970s and early 80s and caused huge rifts between those who supported the construction of a dam as part of the proposed Gordon-below-Franklin hydro-electric power scheme and those who believed preservation of the region’s wilderness values was imperative. A ruling by the High Court on the 1 July 1983 backed the Federal Government’s bid to preserve the wild rivers.
You’ll discover for yourself just why the battle to preserve the Franklin was so hard-fought for those who saw its grandeur, splendour and natural worth as above all else.
What to Expect
This is no ordinary holiday—it’s a true multi-day kayaking expedition deep into the wild heart of Tasmania. Shaped by the moods of the Gordon River and the ever-changing west coast weather, this journey offers a rare chance to experience one of Australia’s most remote and beautiful regions at paddling pace.
You’ll glide through ancient temperate rainforests, past mirror-like waterways rich in tannins, and beneath rugged mountain ranges that seem to rise straight from the riverbanks. Each day, you’ll paddle deeper into a world shaped by nature and time, where echoes of Tasmania’s pioneering history—especially the early piners—still linger in the mist and the stillness.
Expect a landscape that constantly shifts: one moment you’re surrounded by glassy reflections, the next you’re bracing against a gentle drizzle or sea breeze across Macquarie Harbour. Nights are spent camping beneath Huon pine and myrtle, where the sounds of the river and rainforest lull you to sleep. This is wilderness in its purest form.
This guided tour is suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness, and a sense of adventure. It’s not just a kayaking trip—it’s a journey of immersion, reflection, and reconnection with nature. The pace is steady, the rewards immense, and the sense of solitude is unforgettable.
The Weather
Tasmania’s west coast is renowned for its pristine wilderness, lush rainforests, and dramatic waterways—and the weather plays a starring role in the experience. On this guided multi-day kayaking tour along the Gordon River, you’ll witness the landscape change with the light and weather: mist rising through the ancient trees, gentle rain creating ripples on still reflections, sunlight sparkling across the vast Macquarie Harbour, and the occasional sea breeze adding a touch of adventure to your paddle.
This region is typically wetter than other parts of Tasmania, especially as we venture into the rainforest-rich heart of the Gordon River wilderness. Expect rain on several days of the trip—an essential part of this unique environment’s charm. While Macquarie Harbour can bring wind and open-water conditions, the river offers calmer, more sheltered paddling, with moments of cool mist and light drizzle. That said, don’t be surprised by warm or even hot summer days—weather here is varied and ever-changing.
We believe the elements are part of what makes this multi-day tour unforgettable. With the right clothing, you’ll be warm, dry, and ready to fully enjoy every moment. That’s why we provide a detailed gear list and strongly recommend quality wet-weather clothing and thermal layers. Prepare well, and the weather becomes part of the magic—immersing you in a true Tasmanian wilderness experience.
The Route
Typically, we begin by crossing the vast expanse of Macquarie Harbour toward the famously named Hells Gates—a dramatic entry point to the wild West Coast. However, due to the ever-changing nature of Tasmanian weather, especially wind and tide conditions, alternative starts may include boat drop-offs or guided rainforest walks.
From there, we paddle along the rugged western shoreline, passing windswept beaches and skirting remote aquaculture farms with a sea-level view. Mt Sorell dominates the skyline, while Frenchman’s Cap occasionally appears, framed by shifting mist and cloud.
By day three, we’ve entered the legendary Gordon River. As we journey upstream, following in the wake of West Coast piners, we become enveloped in rainforest and reflection. Over the following days, we explore the river all the way to its junction with the Franklin River before sailing back to Strahan aboard the Stormbreaker—a memorable finish to an extraordinary adventure.
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 preference as well as comfortable mats and sleeping bags.
The Food
On a guided multi-day kayaking tour, great food is more than fuel—it’s part of the journey. After a day paddling the wilderness waterways of the Gordon River, you’ll come together with fellow adventurers to enjoy hearty, wholesome meals prepared by your experienced guides. These shared dinners in remote settings offer a moment to unwind, connect, and savour the slower pace that life on the water brings.
Our menu is thoughtfully designed to suit the unique demands of a multi-day tour in the Tasmanian wilderness. Meals are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients that travel well and taste even better in the open air. From the first night to the final day, you’ll enjoy nourishing, flavourful food that keeps your energy up and your spirits high.
We proudly cater to a range of dietary requirements—whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have other specific needs. Just let us know when booking, and we’ll ensure your meals are as satisfying as the scenery.
Because on the Gordon River, food isn’t just something you pack—it’s part of what makes the journey memorable.
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
$3500
PER PERSON
(2025 /26)
DEPOSIT
$400
PER PERSON
PAID AT BOOKING
ALL TOURS ALSO AVAILABLE AS GIFT VOUCHERS.
Trip Package seven days includes
- Transport from Hobart
- Accommodation first in night Strahan
- Yacht journey back to Strahan on last day
- Quality expedition kayaks
- Paddling equipment (good-quality paddle, paddling jacket, spray deck, buoyancy vest and a dry bag)
- National Park entry fees
- All meals and refreshments
- A glass of wine each evening
- Two highly experienced kayaking guides
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?
The trip includes return transport from Hobart, accommodation
in Strahan, yacht journey back to Strahan on last day, quality
expedition kayaks, equipment, food and expert guiding required
for a multi-day trip to this remote wilderness (with its
changeable weather).
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 8 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 Sir John Falls to allow us to explore further up the Gordon River, occasionally to the confluence of the Franklin if conditions allow.
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!
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.
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 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?
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 to the trip. We will pick you up from your accommodation in Hobart at 9:30am before making our way to the West Coast.
Where do I meet up with my tour group?
If you are meeting us in Strahan, we will be in contact prior to the trip to discuss a meeting point and 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 for our 7-day and 5-day expeditions, and $300 per person for our 3-day expeditions) 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.
