SELF GUIDED HIRE
KAYAK TO THE CLUTHA RIVER

Immerse yourself in our stunning Central Otago waterways; kayaking Lake Wanaka and the Clutha River for the perfect adventurous scenic afternoon

KAYAK THE CLUTHA RIVER

Kayaked before, feeling adventurous and want to explore our waters some more? Try our Wanaka to Clutha River self guided trip.

Start your paddle in Wanaka exploring the eastern side of Lake Wanaka as you pass Eely point, beacon point making your way towards the Outlet before reaching the Clutha River. Here you are able to begin the river float section of your adventure, testing your skills floating down the level 1 graded rapids the towards the Albert town bridge.

You will be surrounded by the breathtaking Wanaka scenery and experience the most spectacular sights as you float this mighty and majestic river.

This is a great trip for those who have kayaked a couple of times before, or if you are pretty fit and enthusiastic. This is not suitable for those who have never kayaked before, are nervous or can not swim confidently.

PER PERSON $125 (3 HOUR HIRE PERIOD)

Minimum Age

The minimum age to kayak the Clutha River is 15 years due to the fast moving water.

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Water Confidence

Confidence in water is requires for this self guided kayak trip. You will experience grade 1 rapids with flowing water.

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Experience Required

Kayaking experience is required due to grade 1 rapids down the river and the unsupervised nature of this self guided trip.

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Duration

Your hire period is for 3 hours giving you time to paddle from Wanaka to the Albert town Bridge down the Clutha River.

Before you arrive

Departure Point:

The Wanaka Wharf 100 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

Please check-in 15 minutes prior to departure at our Lakeland Wanaka beachfront trailer

We provide:

  • Kayaks/SUPs and paddles
  • Life Jackets
  • Helmets
  • Dry Bag for a phone
  • Safety Maps
  • Shuttle back to Wanaka from your river end point
  • World famous scenery

What to bring

  • Clothing that can get wet and suitable for the weather (A windbreaker or waterproof jacket is recommended on cooler days) - when in doubt, please bring extra layers but no heavy items such as denin
  • A cellphone must be carried for a way to communicate incase of an emergency
  • Cameras (especially phones), as there will be opportunities for photos - however all electronics are carried at your own risk  

No Availability?

If there is no availability online and that is the only time you can go, please join the waitlist or get in touch by email or phone and we will do our best to try and let you know of any cancellations or if we can accommodate in any other way.

FAQ

Do I need to be experienced?

This trip is designed for those who have kayaked before, are pretty fit and enthusiastic about being on the water. This is not suitable for those who have never kayaked before, are nervous in water or can not swim confidently.

How long does this trip take?

Your rental time for your self guided Wanaka to the Clutha kayak is 3 hours. This gives you enough time to paddle from the foreshore of Lake Wanaka down the Clutha River to the Albert Town Bridge. The total trip distance is approx 12km; 7km across Lake Wanaka and 5km down the Clutha River.

What are the age restrictions for self guided Wanaka to the Clutha trip?

This trip does require kayak experience and fitness so the minimum age for all kayakers on this trip is 15 years of age.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes this self guided tour is on moving water with small rapids, this increases the chance of capsize so water confidence is a must.

What do I need to bring?

Clothing that can get wet and suitable for the weather, you will most liekly get wet during this self guided tour. You are required to carry a phone is case of emergency.

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