Photo Credit
David Wilkinson
The big draws to Abel Tasman are turquoise water, golden beaches, and protected coves, and the best way to experience them is from a sea kayak. Given Abel Tasman’s popularity, an efficient system of kayak excursions and rentals is readily available. You can choose between a guided trip or independent rental and explore the park from a half-day up to five days or more.
Guided Kayaking Trips
For families or those with little or no sea kayaking experience, hiring a guide is a good idea. Before paddling out you will get a full briefing on kayaking equipment, safety, and sea conditions, and your guide will ensure that everything goes smoothly on the water. Guiding companies also coordinate water taxi (water taxis can be hired by those without a guide but booking is up to you). Many guided trips, for example, start with a water taxi north into the Tonga Island Marine Reserve and take a water taxi back at the end of the day.
Recommended Guiding Companies:
- Kahu Kayaks is small, locally owned, and runs highly regarded day trips.
- Sea Kayak Company is known for terrific guides with excursions from a half-day up to five days.
- Golden Bay Kayaks operates out of the lesser-visited northern end of Abel Tasman National Park and is the only company that allows you to paddle the entire length of Abel Tasman from north to south. Golden Bay also offers stand up paddleboard tours and rentals.
Independent Rentals
Truth be told, the water conditions in Abel Tasman are generally calm and straightforward. The southern portion of the park from Marahau to Awaroa is protected and if you have a reasonable level of water confidence and outdoor skills prior experience is not required. Similar to guided trips, independent renters get a comprehensive safety and equipment briefing before departing. The rental companies will even paddle out with you at the start of the trip to help with technique and answer any questions. Sea kayak rentals in Abel Tasman start at $48 for one day up to $150 for five days. Camping gear is available on request.
One-way rentals can be arranged and your boat will be retrieved for a small fee ($32 USD). This means you can kayak into the park, drop the boat at a pre-selected point, and hike back on the Abel Tasman Coast Track. Kayak and hike itineraries are a terrific way to see the park.
Recommended Kayak Rentals:
- Kahu Kayaks offers freedom rentals that include all kayaking equipment and help with trip planning.
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Sea Kayak Company has modern boats, helpful sample itineraries, and great staff.
Length of Kayaking Trips
The shortest guided kayaking excursion in Abel Tasman is a half-day (approximately two hours on the water). This is ideal if you have children, are short on time, or are only interested in a quick introduction to sea kayaking. Full-day trips include significantly more time on the water (approximately 4–5 hours) and they reach the heart of Abel Tasman National Park via a water taxi.
Overnight kayaking trips in Abel Tasman are strongly recommended and a highlight of visiting New Zealand. It doesn’t get better than watching the sunset over the perfect half-moon shaped Te Pukatea Bay and waking up early for another beautiful day of sea kayaking. Overnight trips in Abel Tasman are two or three days with kayak and hike options lasting up to five days.
