Tasmania's Wild South: 8-Day Sea Kayak Expedition
📍 SW Tasmania, Aus | Guided | All Inclusive ✅
Venture deep into the untouched wilderness of Southwest Tasmania.
Traverse World Heritage waterways, camp beneath ancient forests, and embrace true isolation
Paddle deep into one of the world’s last true wildernesses on this 8-day sea kayaking expedition through Tasmania’s remote southwest. Accessible only by light aircraft, the journey begins with a scenic flight into the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
By day, explore calm inlets, winding rivers, and wild coastline; by night, camp beneath ancient forests and starlit skies. Along the way, discover hidden beaches, huon pine groves, and dramatic mountain backdrops few ever get to see.
Led by experienced guides, this expedition blends adventure and solitude with nourishing camp meals, stunning scenery, and a deep connection to place. It’s wild, weather-shaped, and unforgettable.
Duration: 8 days
Style: Sea kayaking expedition
Region: Tasmania’s remote southwest
Access: Light aircraft scenic flight in
Accommodation: Wilderness camping under forest and stars
Guiding & Meals: Experienced guides • Nourishing camp meals
Scenic flight into the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area
Paddle calm inlets, winding rivers, and wild coastline
Camp beneath ancient forests with starlit skies
Discover hidden beaches and huon pine groves
Travel beneath dramatic mountain backdrops few ever see
A journey that is wild, weather-shaped, and unforgettable
Meet at Cambridge Airport and prepare to leave the everyday world far behind. A 40–50 minute scenic flight delivers you deep into one of the planet’s last true wilderness frontiers—flying over Tasmania’s rugged inland peaks or dramatic coastline, depending on the weather.
Touch down at the remote Melaleuca airstrip, built by pioneering conservationist Deny King. From there, wheel your gear a short distance to the expedition basecamp and settle in.
The afternoon is yours to explore this remote corner of the world:
After dinner, your guides will talk through the weather, sea conditions, and possible paddling routes for the days ahead—setting the tone for your journey into the wild.
Push off into Bathurst Channel and begin your first day on the water. This scenic stretch offers a stunning introduction to the Southwest Wilderness—deep, tannin-rich waters flanked by rainforest-covered slopes and moody skies.
Expect a gentle headwind at times, balanced by regular breaks to stretch your legs, refuel, and soak in the silence of this remote world.
By evening, glide into a peaceful bush camp tucked along the shoreline. Settle in, breathe deep, and take in the views—earned, and entirely worth it.
Today’s route follows a more exposed section of coastline, opening up expansive views across Bathurst Harbour and the Southern Ocean beyond. If the weather is favourable, there may be an opportunity to paddle around the dramatic Breaksea Islands—a highlight for many.
After landing at Spain Bay, those keen to stretch their legs can enjoy a remote coastal walk across the isthmus to Stephens Beach. Whether you paddle, hike, or just take it all in, this is a day for big horizons and quiet moments at the edge of the world.
Today’s paddle is shorter but no less rewarding, taking you deep into one of the region’s most tranquil, sheltered inlets. As you glide through glassy waters flanked by towering quartzite peaks, the pace slows and the silence deepens.
Arrive at a peaceful bush camp where the mirrored surface of the harbour reflects the surrounding wilderness. Spend the afternoon unwinding, exploring on foot, or simply soaking in the stillness—this is Southwest serenity at its finest.
Today is yours to shape. Whether you’re craving a challenge, quiet reflection, or something in between, the landscape offers options in every direction.
Head out on foot to summit Mt Stokes or Mt Milner for sweeping views of the harbour and beyond. Prefer to stay on the water? Paddle to Whale Head or Wallaby Bay, tracing quiet coves and untamed shoreline.
There’s also the chance to explore remnants of the region’s early whaling days—weathered relics that whisper of a very different past. However you spend it, this flexible day is about connecting with the wild on your terms.
The return journey east takes you back across the broad, open sweep of Bathurst Harbour—often with the wind at your back and the water like glass beneath your kayak.
Drift past untouched shoreline, ancient forest, and mirrored reflections that blur the line between water and sky. It’s a day to savour the scale and stillness of the Southwest, where every paddle stroke feels lighter and every view more expansive than the last.
Today offers a final chance to explore some of the Southwest’s quieter corners—perhaps tracing the winding North River or circling the forested Celery Top Islands.
The pace is gentle, the waters calm, and the scenery ever-changing. It’s a day for reflection, slow paddling, and soaking in the last wild moments before your final night in camp.
Ease into the day with a relaxed start and one final paddle—this time up the winding Melaleuca Inlet, retracing your route back toward civilisation.
At the airstrip, you’ll clean down your gear and prepare for the scenic midday flight back to Hobart. Return transfers are included.
Note: Weather in the Southwest can be unpredictable. Flights may be delayed due to poor conditions, so it’s strongly recommended to allow at least 24 hours before any onward travel plans.
Need more info. Check out full trip notes here
This is true wilderness camping—no hotels, no crowds, no roads. Each night you’ll set up camp in remote and spectacular locations within Tasmania’s World Heritage-listed Southwest.
You’ll be provided with high-quality gear, including:
Campsites are chosen for their natural beauty and shelter. You’ll help pitch your own tent each day, adding to the expedition spirit. There’s no power, no mobile coverage, and definitely no reception—just the sounds of nature and a sky full of stars.
Every meal on the expedition is prepared fresh by your expert guides using high-quality ingredients—no dehydrated rations here.
You'll enjoy:
Dietary requirements? No problem—just let the team know in advance. Everything is carried in and out with care, so meals are simple, satisfying, and low impact on the environment.
Expect wild coastal weather and ever-shifting conditions in Southwest Tasmania. Temperatures usually range from 8°C to 18°C, but can spike to 20°C in summer—or dip lower near dawn. Rain is common any time of year, so waterproof gear is essential even if skies look clear.
Wind picks up around the waterways—especially mid‑day—bringing choppy paddling conditions. Mornings and evenings tend to be calmer and more sheltered.
Pack layers: thermal baselayers, breathable mid-layers, a stout waterproof shell, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF). On the water, wear quick‑dry clothing and shoes that can get wet.
Your guides monitor the forecast daily and adjust the route, camp locations, and schedule for safety and comfort.
Verified Reviews from Past Tours
This is a remote, self-supported expedition—so smart packing matters. Your guides will provide all group camping and kayaking gear, but you’ll need to bring your own personal items and clothing. Here’s what to pack:
On the Water
On Land & at Camp
Optional but Handy
Bring one soft duffel bag (60–90L max) for all your gear. Hard cases and large suitcases are not suitable.
Your guides will give you a dry bag for items needed during paddling. They’ll help you pack everything to balance weight and space across kayaks.
Need more info. Check out full trip notes here
Big-picture vibe
A rare slice of true wilderness: tannin-dark waters, quartzite mountains, button-grass plains and quiet coves that feel a world away. No roads in, no shops, no signal—just weather, wildlife and the hum of wind and water. It’s part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and protected above and below the surface, so the rhythm here is slow, self-sufficient and respectful.
Orientation & Access
Weather, Wind & Water
Marine Reserve Basics (Kayakers take note)
Culture & Care
Wildlife You Might See
Practical Essentials
Must-dos & Quiet Gems
Beyond the Harbour: Gateway Add-ons (Pre/Post)
Safety & Style of Travel
Pack List Highlights (region-specific)
Local Etiquette (unwritten but appreciated)
Results Summary (Topline)
Method: high-estimate with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and aviation non-CO₂ effects via RF = 1.9; includes single-origin guest flights, all meals (included + off-tour), on-tour flights/transport & stays, and +10% uncertainty uplift.
Purpose
Conservatively estimate greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e) across Scopes 1–3, report per person (with group totals for context), and state the 200% offset applied per person.
Key Tour Info
Scope & Boundaries
Feeder Hub (Guest Flights) — Single Origin Rule
Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults
Activity Data Applied (this estimate)
Results — Per Person (high-estimate, no tables)
Guest flights (MEL ↔ HBA, return; WTT + RF = 1.9): ≈ 370 kg
On-tour scenic flights (Hobart/Cambridge ↔ Melaleuca, return; WTT + RF): ≈ 160 kg
On-tour road (city ↔ Cambridge transfers; conservative p-km): ≈ 10 kg
Accommodation (7 nights; room-night benchmark): ≈ 140 kg
All meals (24 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 60 kg
Subtotal: ≈ 740 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 74 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 814 kg CO₂e
Reporting focus is per person. Group totals above are provided only for context. Offsets are applied per person.
Assumptions (transparent)
Versioning
Generated 23 Aug 2025 (Australia/Perth). Factors reviewed annually or when official sources update.
References
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Measure Your Co2🏞 Melaleuca
🌊 Bathurst Harbour & Port Davey
🐚 Spain Bay & Breaksea Islands
🌄 Bramble Cove
🌲 Celery Top Islands & North River
A moderate level of fitness is required. You’ll be paddling for 4–6 hours on some days, sometimes in windy conditions, and helping with basic camp setup. No kayaking experience is necessary, but being comfortable in water and reasonably active will help.
No prior experience is required. Your guides will provide expert instruction and support throughout the trip. Most participants are first-timers or recreational paddlers.
Southwest Tasmania is famously wild and changeable. Expect temperatures from 10°C to 35°C, rain on at least one day, and chilly evenings. Quality thermals and waterproof gear are essential (see packing list).
You’ll be camping in pristine wilderness. Tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats are provided. Campsites are remote with no power or mobile coverage, but rich in natural beauty and serenity.
All meals, snacks, and drinks are provided—including a glass of wine with dinner each night. Meals are hearty, nutritious, and prepared by your guides. Dietary requirements can be catered for—just let us know at booking.
The expedition begins with a scenic flight from Hobart’s Cambridge Airport to Melaleuca. Return flights and Hobart transfers are included. We recommend not booking onward travel for at least 24 hours after the trip ends in case of weather-related delays.
Nope! This is a true digital detox. There’s no mobile coverage or power, so come prepared with fully charged devices and spare batteries.
(T = tonnes CO₂e)
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