Adventure brief
Tasman Peninsula (10 Hrs)
Paddle beneath towering sea cliffs and discover sea caves, seals, and the famed Totem Pole on a 10-hour kayak tour with Roaring 40's Kayaking. Experience Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula like never before.
Stretching along Australia’s southern edge, Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula offers one of the continent’s most dramatic seascapes. Roaring 40’s Kayaking invites adventurers to witness this raw coastal spectacle on a full-day, 10-hour sea kayaking journey along the Three Capes Track. This isn’t just a paddle; it’s an immersion into wild geology and thriving marine habitat.
Launching from Fortescue Bay, paddlers navigate beneath some of Australia’s highest sea cliffs, vertical walls of striated dolerite rock rising 200 meters above the Southern Ocean. These towering cliffs form natural amphitheaters, punctuated by sea caves to peer into and the Candlestick, an iconic needle-like rock formation. As you glide through this rugged coastline, keep an eye out for the Totem Pole—a slender sea stack famed worldwide among climbers.
The abundant wildlife here will put you close to Australian fur seals lounging on sunbaked rocks and a variety of seabirds including sea eagles and peregrine falcons riding updrafts along the cliffs. If luck is on your side, pods of dolphins may surface nearby, and seasonal whale migrations can sometimes be spotted offshore. This journey offers more than scenery.
A gourmet lunch is served at a secluded cove, a perfect setting to recharge amid wilderness. Kayaks are stable doubles, ideal for beginners with basic fitness, guided by locals who bring deep passion and knowledge to the experience. Departing from Hobart or directly at Fortescue Bay, Roaring 40's Kayaking brings visitors right to the pulse of the Tasman Peninsula’s outdoor adventure scene.
With careful attention to safety and sustainability, these tours provide a tangible connection to Tasmania’s rugged coastal heritage. For anyone craving a full day of paddling alongside staggering cliffs, historic shipwrecks, and rich wildlife, this kayak trip stands apart as an authentic way to engage with one of Australia’s most special coastal ecosystems.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Paddle Steadily for Distanceessential
Prepare to paddle consistently for up to 5 hours with breaks, so build your endurance beforehand.
- 02Weather Can Shift Rapidlywarning
The Tasman Peninsula is exposed to swell and wind; cancellations can occur for safety, so stay flexible.
- 03Wear Appropriate Protectionessential
Dress in warm, waterproof layers supplied by guides to stay comfortable during ocean paddling.
- 04Book Ahead for Best Datesinfo
Groups are small and tours run seasonally; reserve your spot before arrival to guarantee participation.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Layered Clothing
Wear layers to adapt to changing weather and stay warm during ocean paddling.
EssentialWaterproof Jacket
To protect against wind, spray, and intermittent rain.
allEssentialSun Protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to guard against strong Tasmanian sun.
spring|summer|fallEssentialSturdy Water Shoes
For comfort when launching and landing on rocky beaches.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Semi-submerged shipwreck near the Three Capes coastline, Natural sea caves along the sea cliff base
Local fauna
Australian fur seals, Marine dolphins
Historic heritage
The Tasman Peninsula is also known for its convict-era history and dramatic geological formations dating back millions of years.
Mindful exploration
Guides adhere to strict Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on the fragile coastal ecosystem and marine wildlife.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Seaward side of the Candlestick rock formation, Inside coastal sea caves, Lighthouse overlook points visible from sea
- Subjects
- Towering dolerite cliffs, Swimming fur seals, Paddlers silhouetted against the ocean
- Best times
- Morning light after sunrise, Golden hour late afternoon, Overcast for softer wildlife shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior kayaking experience to join?
No prior experience is required; guides provide all necessary instruction and stable double kayaks are used.
What fitness level is needed?
A basic level of fitness is needed to paddle for several hours, though you get breaks and support from guides.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see Australian fur seals, sea eagles, cormorants, and possibly dolphins or migrating whales.
What happens if weather conditions are unsafe?
Tours may be rescheduled or refunded if weather is unsuitable, with options offered for alternative dates or trips.
Are meals included in the trip?
Yes, a gourmet Tasmanian lunch and refreshments are served at a secluded cove mid-tour.
What age groups can participate?
Participants must be 16 years or older with basic fitness to join this full-day adventure.