Does anybody have any suggestions for kayaking (guides, trips, rentals, etc.) at Abel Tasman National Park? My wife and I will be there around Christmas. We think we’d like a guide (for safety and information), but it may not be necessary. Are there currents or offshore winds to be concerned about from Awaroa to Marahau? Any other forgotten dangers? We found one place (so far) to rent kayaks (Abel Tasman Kayaks). We only have one full day here so we’re trying to maximize our water time. We like their “Remote Coast” trip. We’re experienced and are looking to paddle between 10 - 20 miles. Thanks for any suggestions.
Some Info
– Last Updated: Feb-09-14 12:59 AM EST –
If the weather is fine there is no need for a guide, lots of sheltered bays in the area and lots of people on the water around Christmas time.
Be warned however that the weather in New Zealand south island does not cooperate very well. We did a three week trip after Christmas a few years ago and it was high winds and rain every day of the trip but two.
If you can swing it I would plan your trip so you can adjust for the weather, a bad day and you won't get any time on the water at all.
If you are going to be on the south island I suggest looking into taking the overnight kayak outfitter at Doubtful Sound . Amazing spot (Abel Tasman is nice as well). Stewart Island is also very good.
Sand Flies: Before you go make sure you take some good repellent and a first aid kit with antiseptic wipes and hydrocortisone cream .... nasty little buggers will get you.
Thanks!
Thanks for the info. We’ve planned our paddle for the day at Abel Tasman and for another all day paddle at Doubtful Sound (unfortunately not the overnighter). Probably just a cruise through Milford Sound on the following day. Thanks for the tip regarding sand flies. That could spoil any adventure.
Should be very good …
My trip to NZ was probably my favorite trip I have ever done.
I don’t know how far down the sound they take you for the day paddle, but it should be very scenic and secluded no matter what. It’s a beautiful spot, my favorite was the mouth of the Fjord but they probably don’t take novice kayakers there.
The west coast of the south island is really nasty with sand flies. If you are not camping will be much less of an issue. I did not think they bothered me much, until about three days after the bites. There are some local repellents and treatments, ask your guides.
Not too far down Doubtful Sound!
We’re only going to the first arm of Doubtful Sound (heading south) after leaving Deep Cove(?). There will, most likely, be novices on the paddle and they said it was a safer trip (I’m guessing due to wind). We’ll get to the mouth of Milford Sound on the cruise we booked the following day though. Hope it’s similar to DS. Glad to hear that it was your favorite trip. We expect it to be spectacular! Should we bring paddling gloves/ pogies? I think they supply wetsuits and hopefully, booties.