3-Hour Eco Kayak

Overview

Three hours on the water inside the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary, paddling creeks lined by mangroves that are around 10,000 years old. The tour begins at the Angas Inlet Boat Club on Garden Island Road in Port Adelaide, where guides give a demonstration and hand out all the gear: kayak, life jacket, waterproof bag, and water for refilling a bottle. No prior kayaking experience is needed, and the group moves at a comfortable pace.

From there the route follows mangrove forest creeks fed by seagrass, saltmarsh and tidal flats, which act as feeding grounds for the sanctuary's dolphins. A marine biologist leads the trip and points out birdlife and the workings of the ecosystem along the way. There is also a chance to paddle close to abandoned shipwrecks from an earlier era, though the operator is upfront that tides, weather and wild animals mean neither dolphins nor the wreck area can be guaranteed.

The tour suits beginners and works well for families with children aged 10 and up, provided kids paddle in a double kayak with an adult. One reviewer did flag that the full duration takes a certain level of physical fitness, so some stamina helps. Hotel pickup is not included, so you make your own way to the meeting point.

Itinerary

1. Meet at Angas InletArrive at the Angas Inlet Boat Club, Lot 204 Garden Island Rd, Port Adelaide. Hotel pickup is not included.
2. Briefing and gearGuides give a paddling demonstration and provide the kayak, life jacket and waterproof bag. No experience required.
3. Paddle mangrove creeksKayak through mangrove-lined creeks with seagrass, saltmarsh and tidal flats, watching for birdlife and the ecosystem the marine biologist guide describes.
4. Dolphin watchingThe creeks are feeding grounds for dolphins, so there is an opportunity to see them in their natural habitat. Sightings cannot be guaranteed.
5. Shipwreck area (optional)Depending on tides and conditions, the group may paddle close to abandoned shipwrecks. This part is not guaranteed.

Common Questions