Distance: 11-12km one way

Skill level: Basic

  • limited previous paddling skills or experience
  • the basic skills to manoeuvre your kayak forwards, backwards and sideways
  • competent to paddle in 10km/hour winds
  • practiced how to recover if you capsize
  • the skills to land your kayak on a boat ramp or beach without breaking waves
  • basic navigation and map reading skills
  • can understand the Bureau of Meteorology marine weather forecasts and observe signs of changing weather conditions

You can paddle it as one trail or break up different sections to suit the weather conditions, your available time and interest. When paddling under the Tasman Bridge be aware of other vessels and stay away from the main navigation spans.

Highlights

  • Spectacular cliffs at Bedlam Walls.
  • Views towards the 100 year old zinc smelter factory on the waterfront.
  • Sheltered waters of Shag Bay with significant historic and cultural values including Tasmanian Aboriginal sites, remains of the fertilizer factory, quarrying and past resting place for old historic boats.
  • Aboriginal rock shelter south of Shag Bay.
  • Paddle under the Tasman Bridge and view the span that was rebuilt after the Illawarra collision in 1976, which cut off vehicle access between the eastern and western shores.
  • Paddling into Geilston Bay, Lindisfarne Bay and Kangaroo Bay.
  • Paddle past Kangaroo Bluff, a former gun emplacement in the 19th Century to help defend the early colony.
  • Option to paddle across to the western shore in favourable weather conditions on the river.

Clarence Kayak Trail waterproof/tear-proof hard copy and pdf

The Clarence Kayak Trail is available for purchase as a waterproof/tear-proof brochure folded to A5 size from Council Offices and The Tasmanian Map Centre for $6, or you can download the Clarence Kayak Trail PDF.

Activities

  • Kayaking

Hazards: This section of the river can be exposed to strong winds from the northwest, west and southwest making paddling difficult into the wind and waves. Strong southerly and southwesterly sea breezes can occur in summer. A southwest swell can cause surf breaking on the beaches and make it difficult to land or launch.

Be prepared, check out our Paddlers Checklist.

Paddling Conditions

River and open water conditions can vary according to many factors such as:

  • wind strength;
  • direction and duration that the wind has been blowing;
  • fetch (the distance over which the wind has blown);
  • depth of water;
  • physical characteristics of the shoreline;
  • tide and currents; and
  • air and water temperature.

When on the water keep a look out for:

  • Changing weather conditions especially strengthening winds and off shore winds
  • Other boats and users of the coastal waters
  • Pylons, navigational buoys, rocks and any other hazards
  • Avoid main navigation spans on the Derwent River

Paddler’s Checklist

Before you go

  • Consider your fitness levels and the experience of you and other paddlers before choosing where you paddle. Know your personal limits.
  • Never paddle alone. Paddle with friends. If you have basic paddling skills consider paddling with someone with intermediate or advanced skills.
  • Familiarise yourself with the trail. Be aware of the launch point, distance, time it will take to complete, any safety hazards and the facilities available.
  • Consult the most recent weather forecast and a tide chart as conditions may impact upon the route. Do not go paddling if there is thunder or lightning.
  • Check all equipment is in good condition.
  • Make sure your kayak or paddle craft is suitable for your trip.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
  • Make yourself familiar with navigational rules, navigation lights and marks (mast.tas.gov.au).

What to take

  • wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  • personal Locator Beacon (PLB) for advanced skill trips
  • paddle leash
  • mobile phone (keep in a water tight bag) in case of an emergency
  • weather-appropriate clothing to stay warm and visible
  • navigational lights if you intend to paddle in conditions of poor visibility or darkness (white strobe light or all round light with 360° visibility)
  • sun protection – sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
  • wetsuit boots, rubber shoes or sandals
  • wear high visibility clothing to ensure you are able to be seen by other watercraft
  • consider wetsuits or clothing capable of keeping you warm when wet
  • plenty of food and drinking water
  • maps in a waterproof bag
  • bag to collect rubbish (e.g. food and drink containers)
  • flares if paddling outside of the Derwent River (e.g. kayak trails 6 & 7)