Beaches, Bays and Seals Kayaking Tour in Abel Tasman

Combining the best the Abel Tasman has to offer! Four hours paddling in the heart of Abel Tasman National Park

Detailed Itinerary

• Coach or drive to our Kaiteriteri Ticket Office to check in by 9.10 am.
• Meet your Guide to board our 9.30 am Boat Cruise and discuss the day's activities.
• Cruise the forest-fringed bays and granite archways of the unique coastline into to the best sea kayaking territory in Abel Tasman National Park.
• At our Torrent Bay Lodge, your Guide introduces you to safe paddling techniques and settles you into one of our stable double kayaks.
• Then, it's on to the water to enjoy exploring the wondrous headlands, coves and islands of the granite coast.
• Your Guide makes sure you make the most of the day depending on the tides, weather conditions, and your interests and abilities.
• Pause at a sheltered cove for lunch (supplied by us).
• Take time out to relax on the beach, swim or sunbathe on the golden sand, or explore the native forest.
• On your return journey, if conditions allow, visit the seal colony at Pinnacle Island.
• In favourable winds, your guide will hoist a sail to ride the breeze.
• Watch out for resident Blue Penguins and other sea birds along the coast.
• Back at Torrent Bay Lodge, freshen up before you rejoin the boat to cruise back to Kaiteriteri at 5.45 pm in time to catch connecting coaches if required.

Prices

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

Split Apple Paddle Half-Day Trip

Kayak the spectacular granite coast in only 3 hours! Time includes instructions and breaks with up to 2 hours 30 minutes paddling.

Detailed Itinerary

• Coach or drive to Kaiteriteri to check in at our Ticket Office by 9:10am.
• Meet your Guide who will introduce you to safe paddling techniques and settle you into a stable double kayak.
• Then, it's onto the water to explore & have fun! Your Guide knows all the best, secret spots taking into account the tides, weather and your interests and abilities.
• Enjoy the features of the stunning Kaiteriteri coastline, including the famous "Split Apple Rock".
• Pause at a sheltered cove for a break before returning to Kaiteriteri by 12 midday in time to catch an afternoon boat cruise into the Park if you wish.
• Watch out for resident Blue Penguins and other sea birds along the coast.

Don't want to finish here? After a morning of kayaking you can connect with the Vigour Cruise or Vigour Water Taxi for an afternoon cruise or walk in the park. See Kayak Seals and Walk and Beaches, Kayak and Walk product descriptions for full details.

Prices

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

Kayak, Seals and Walk

Explore the protected beaches and spectacular granite sculptures of the Southern coast, then travel into the National Park for an enchanting forest walk.

Detailed Itinerary

• Coach or drive to Kaiteriteri and check in at our Kaiteriteri Ticket Office by 9.30 am to join our guided Split Apple Rock kayak trip.
• Your guide will introduce you to safe paddling techniques and settle you into a stable double kayak. Then, it's onto the water to explore & have fun!
• Paddling north, this relaxing trip explores the fascinating coves and natural features of the stunning Kaiteriteri coastline, including the famous "Split Apple Rock".
• Stop on a golden beach for a short break before heading back to Kaiteriteri.
• Return by 11.45am to swap kayak for walking shoes.
• Farewell your guide and join our 12.15pm Water Taxi to the golden sands of Onetahuti, visiting the fascinating seal colony at Tonga Island on the way.
• Disembark at 1.30pm and enjoy a 1 1/2 hour walk to beautiful Bark Bay.
• Rejoin the Water Taxi at 3.40pm for return to Kaiteriteri, where your coach or car awaits.

Prices

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

Beaches, Kayak and Walk

The perfect adventure for families and first time paddlers:

• Sea kayak: full instruction and up to 2hrs 30mins easy paddling.
• Return boat trip (2 hours) with beach stop to walk or relax at Anchorage Beach

Detailed Itinerary

• Coach or drive to Kaiteriteri to check in at our Ticket Office by 9:10am.
• Meet your Guide who will introduce you to safe paddling techniques and settle you into a stable double kayak.
• Then, it's onto the water to explore & have fun! Your Guide knows all the best, secret spots taking into account the tides, weather and your interests and abilities.
• Enjoy the features of the stunning Kaiteriteri coastline, including the famous "Split Apple Rock".
• Stop on a golden beach for a short break before heading back to Kaiteriteri, returning by 12 midday to swap kayak for walking shoes.
• Farewell your guide and join our 1.00pm Vista Cruise to picturesque Anchorage Bay.
• Disembark at 1.45 pm then choose to relax on the golden expanse of Anchorage Beach or take a leisurely walk to the beautiful protected cove of Te Pukatea Bay and return (approx 45 mins, 3kms). If you take the Pitt Head Loop track with fabulous coastal vistas it will take approx 1hr 15mins (4 kms)
• 3.00 or 5.00pm board the Vista Cruise to return to Kaiteriteri at 3.45 or 5.45pm

Prices

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

5 Day Kayak and Walking Tour

Two days sea kayaking the protected southern coastline and one day walking the lush northern Abel Tasman Coast Track with an extra day at each of our Beachfront Lodges to relax or explore parts of the Park most visitors don't get to see. Includes a scenic cruise along the length of the Abel Tasman coast.

Kayaking or walking each day is optional. You are welcome to travel on any of the scheduled ferry services. Please discuss this option with your guide prior to each days departure.

Detailed Itinerary

Pre Tour:

On the morning of your departure you will be picked-up from your accommodation or, if you have your own car you can leave it at a safe parking area in Motueka. Day packs are available to borrow if required, and you can safely store any excess luggage.

Day 1: Nelson/Motueka to Awaora via Totaranui

Approximate times:
Bus to Kaiteriteri from Nelson (1.5 hours) or Motueka (20 mins)
Cruise Kaiteriteri to Totaranui 2 hours
Walk, including options, 3.5 - 4 hours (8-10 kms)
Includes morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner

• *Pick up Nelson (7.30am) or Motueka (8.30am). Time for last-minute luggage organisation at our Motueka office.
• Launch departs Kaiteriteri for a leisurely cruise along the National Park coastline. Hot drinks, covered or open deck areas and bathroom facilities on board.
• When you arrive at Totaranui, you can relax on the beach or take a walk through the lush, untouched rainforest on the Pukatea Loop (approx 1.5 hours).
• Walk south approximately 2 hours from Totaranui to the fascinating Awaroa estuary, through rainforest with magnificent specimens of Nikau Palm and Rata fringing idyllic sandy coves.
• Cross the Awaroa estuary and be introduced to its fascinating history.
• Spend the night on the beachfront at Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day Two: Explore Awaroa.

Optional walking, up to 4 hours (8 kms) or kayaking (tide dependant)
Includes breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner

Explore the largest tidal estuary in Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak (tides permitting).
• Your guide can plan your day to be as active or relaxing as you wish.
• Visit early European and pre-European historical sites.
• Unwind on the beach.
• Relax and enjoy the comforts of Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 3: Awaroa to Torrent Bay

Approximate times:
Walk Awaora to Onetahuti 1.5 hours (5 kms)
Sea Kayak Onetahuti to Torrent Bay 4 hours (10 kms)
Includes breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner

• Depart Awaroa to walk over the Tonga Saddle to Onetahuti.
• Here, your guide will settle you into your kayaks with full training and safety brief. You do not leave the beach until your guide is satisfied you can safely negotiate the coast in your kayak.
• In good weather, visit the Seal Colony on Tonga Island where New Zealand fur seals breed. Spot new-born pups in December and Jaunary.
• Cruising past Tonga Quarry and the Tonga Arches, your guide will explain the history of this granite area, pointing out some of the features and quarry relics.
• Stop for lunch at Bark Bay. Take time out to explore, swim or relax on the golden sand.
• Continue beach hopping along the coast to our beachfront lodge at Torrent Bay, taking in points of interest: Falls River, Frenchman's Bay.

Day 4: Explore Torrent Bay

Optional walking up to 5 hours (10 kms) and canoeing (tide dependant)
Includes breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch, dinner

A day of Choices! Let our guides plan an adventurous or relaxing day to suit you.
Options include:

• A walk through breathtaking first generation forest, up to the waterfalls on Falls River.
• Canoe in the estuary and visit the peaceful grotto of Cleopatra's Pool (tides permitting).
• Walk to the protected golden beaches of Anchorage and Te Pukatea and visit historic Maori sites at Pitt Head.

Day 5: Torrent Bay to Kaiteriteri:

Approximate times:
Sea Kayak Torrent Bay to Kaiteriteri 4.5 hours (12 kms)
Bus Kaiteriteri to Motueka (20 mins) or Nelson (1.5 hours)
Includes breakfast, morning and afternoon teas, lunch

• Paddling along the coast, discover the pristine bays and beaches named by French Explorer, Dumont D'urville in 1827.
• Cruise the Astrolabe Roadstead, visit the stunning bays of Te Pukatea and Appletree, or paddle along the coast of Adel Island.
• If the wind is with you, your guide will help you hoist a specially designed sail so you can ride the sea breeze.
• Stop for lunch at any one of the bays, then continue on to Kaiteriteri.
• Our coach meets you at Kaiteriteri to return to Motueka (4.30pm) or Nelson (5.30pm).*
• Note: The direction of the trip may be reversed on some departures.

If you find that kayaking is not for you, there is the option of joining the walk group that is walking the kayaking sections of this itinerary. This flexibility is perfect for couples or groups that want to visit the park together but don't all want to kayak, some preferring to walk or boat between lodges.

Packages

This trip operates all year round, departing every Tuesday and Friday.

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

3 Day Kayak and Walking Tour

Two days sea kayaking the protected southern coastline and one day walking the lush northern Abel Tasman Coast Track. Includes a scenic cruise along the length of the Abel Tasman coast.

Detailed Itinerary

Pre Tour:

On the morning of your departure you will be picked-up from your accommodation or, if you have your own car you can leave it at a safe parking area in Motueka. Day packs are available to borrow if required, and you can safely store any excess luggage.

Day 1: Nelson / Motueka to Torrent Bay

Approximate Times:
Bus to Kaiteriteri - from Nelson 1.5 hours, - from Motueka 20 mins
Sea Kayak Kaiteriteri to Torrent Bay - 4.5 hours, 12km
Includes Morning and Afternoon Tea, Lunch, Dinner

• *Pick up Nelson (7.30am) or Motueka (8.30am). Time for last-minute luggage organisation at our Motueka office.
• At Kaiteriteri, your guide will settle you into your kayaks for a full training session. You do not leave the beach until your guide is satisfied you can safely negotiate the coast in your kayak.
• Paddling along the coast, discover the pristine bays and beaches named by French Explorer, Dumont D'urville in 1827.
• Cruise the Astrolabe Roadstead, visit the stunning bays of Te Pukatea and Appletree, or paddle along the coast of Adel Island.
• Stop for lunch at any one of the bays, then continue on to Torrent Bay Lodge at the beachfront.

Day 2: Torrent Bay to Awaroa

Approximate times:
Sea Kayak Torrent Bay to Onetahuti (Tonga Beach) - 4 hours paddling (10km)
Walk Onetahuti to Awaroa - 1.5 hours (5km)
Includes Breakfast, Morning and Afternoon Tea, Lunch, Dinner.

• Leave Torrent Bay for a morning of beach hopping up the coast, taking in points of interest: Falls River, Frenchman's Bay.
• Midday, stop for lunch at Bark Bay and take time out to relax, explore, swim or sunbathe on the golden sand.
• In good weather, visit the Seal Colony on Tonga Island where New Zealand fur seals breed. Spot new-born pups in December and Jaunary.
• Cruising past Tonga Quarry and the Tonga Arches, your guide will explain the history of this granite area, pointing out some of the features and quarry relics.
• Leave Sea Kayaks at Onetahuti and walk over the Tonga Saddle to Meadowbank Homestead - Awaroa.

Day 3: Awaroa to Nelson / Motueka via Totaranui

Approximate times:
Walk Awaroa to Totaranui - 2 hours (7 kms)
Cruise Totaranui to Kaiteriteri 2 hours
Coach Kaiteriteri to Motueka (20 minutes) or Nelson (1.5 hours)
Includes Breakfast, Morning and Afternoon Tea, Lunch.

• Cross the Awaroa estuary, and be introduced to its fascinating history.
• Walk through the northern forests of the park with magnificent specimens of Nikau Palm and Rata.
• At Totaranui, join our comfortable launch to cruise the coastline, you have just explored by kayak. Hot drinks, covered or open decks and bathroom facilities are available on board.
• Our coach meets you to return to Motueka (4.30pm) or Nelson (5.30pm).*

Keep in mind that kayaking or walking each day is optional. You are welcome to travel on any of our scheduled ferry services. Please discuss this option with your guide prior to each days departure.

If you find that sea kayaking is not for you, you have the option of joining the walk group that is walking the kayaking sections of this itinerary. This flexibility is perfect for couples or groups that want to visit the park together but don't all want to kayak, some preferring to walk or boat between lodges.

Please note: The direction of the 3 Day Kayaking & Walk Trip may be reversed on some departures.

Packages

This trip operates all year round, departing Monday (Southbound), Wednesday and Saturday (Northbound)

If you would like more information on the Abel Tasman Track just fill out our enquiry form or send us an email. Full itineraries and scheduled departure dates are available on request.

The Classic Tour - 2 or 3 days

This fully catered adventure kayaks the coastline from beautiful Totaranui in the North down to the golden shores of Marahau. Spacious and spectacular; the northern section is seldom visited by others. Completely immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Abel Tasman National Park. Experience it all from paddling with seals, relaxing on numerous beaches, exploring lagoons, islands and Maori village Pa sites to learning about local history and lore. It's a relaxing, content-rich and memorable three day experience. This is truly an amazing trip. What more could you ask for?!

Also available is a 2 day option - joining the 3 day tour for the first 2 days.

Freedom Rentals

Freedom rentals give you the chance to explore the paradise of Abel Tasman at your own pace, to your own schedule and with your own kayaking companions. We'll provide all the gear to get you there, give tips on where to go and teach all you need to keep safe.

For safety reasons, no rentals are available to solo kayakers or children under 14. All paddlers also need to attend a safety briefing and be water confident and prepared for unpredictable weather conditions.

YOUR RENTAL INCLUDES:

• Full safety briefing upon arrival, including weather and sea conditions, itinerary planning and emergency procedures.
• Top quality single or double sea kayak with watertight storage
• All necessary safety equipment, including buoyancy jacket, waterproof maps and camera case
• Free secure vehicle and gear storage while you're away
• A warm welcome, hot showers and refreshments when you return

Price (per person)

• 1 day $69
• 2 days $150.00
• 3 days $195.00
• 4 days $214.00
• 5th day $214.00