Frequently Asked Questions for kayak rentals

How far can we paddle?
Paddling distance is determined by a combination of weather conditions, paddler’s experience and fitness. As a rule of thumb 5km hour is a leisurely paddling pace. 10-15km can be considered a comfortable amount of paddling for one day. Kayaking is not permitted on the eastern side of the Freycinet Peninsula, without special permission of Freycinet Adventures.

How much gear can we take?
Double kayaks have storage for approximately two backpacks-worth of gear. Single kayaks can fit the equivalent of 1½ backpacks-worth of gear. Given the shape and size of the compartments, several small bags are preferable to one or two large ones.

What is the weather like?
The weather in Tasmania is varied. Be prepared for all extremes – including sun, rain, wind and cold (sometimes all in one day!).  During December to February the average daily temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius. During these months a daily sea breeze of an average 20 knots is typically experienced – the direction varies around the state. E.g. the Freycinet Peninsula experiences a north-east sea breeze (offshore on the western-side of the Peninsula).  During the remainder of the year air temperatures are cooler (frosts are experienced in winter), hours of daylight shorter and sea breeze less prominent.

What is the water temperature?
May vary from 10 degrees Celsius in the winter months to 20 degrees in the summer months.

What facilities are there? 
Facilities available in Coles Bay include: accommodation and camping, grocery stores, post office, bakery, tavern, petrol stations, restaurants, take aways.  The nearby towns of Bicheno (30 mins) and Swansea (45 mins) have a number of additional services including the Bendigo Bank, hardware stores and larger grocery stores.  Visit www.wineglassbay.com for details on the local area, businesses and services.

Camping
There are several designated campsites on the Freycinet Peninsula that are managed by Parks & Wildlife - including Hazards Beach, Cooks Beach and Schouten Island. You do not need to book for these camp sites, and facilities are limited to a basic bush toilet.    Call Parks & Wildlife Service office (03) 6256 7000 for more information.

Water
Water on the Freycinet Peninsula can be very limited at different times of the year.  There are water tanks at Cooks Beach and on Schouten Island - however you should not rely on these and carry sufficient water with you.