Bay Explorer

Glide across the calm, crystal-clear waters of Lake Wānaka on a relaxed 7 km guided kayak tour—soak up stunning alpine views, explore hidden corners, and hear local stories on this perfect 3 hour adventure for beginners and relaxed paddlers.

No experience necassary with the easy paddle pace

Experienced guide with added commentary

Iconic NZ adventure in a beautiful landscape

Optional Ruby Island walk

Approx 7km paddle

$229 NZD ADULT

$189 NZD CHILD

Experience

Highlights

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  • 3 Hour guided kayak on Lake Wanaka
  • Includes optional Ruby Island walk
  • Fun, scenic, and accessible for all paddlers
  • approx 7km

Full description

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Kayaking on the serene waters of Lake Wānaka, with its crystal-clear depths and stunning alpine backdrop, is the perfect way to start your day. Our Bay Tour is a calm and scenic half-day journey that covers approximately 7 km (5.5 miles) of Lake Wānaka’s main bay — ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Guided by our friendly local crew, you’ll explore the main bay of the lake, take in uninterrupted views of the Southern Alps, and hear a few local tales along the way. Whether you’re a visitor chasing a classic New Zealand adventure or a local keen to rediscover your backyard, this one-way paddle strikes the perfect balance between active and relaxed—getting you into nature without breaking too much of a sweat.

A great introduction to kayaking, this tour is ideal for couples, friends, families, and adventurous older folks.

Includes

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  • Kayak and Paddle
  • Life Jackets
  • Experienced and friendly guide
  • Optional 15 minute peninsula or island walk
  • Dry bags for personal items such as light snacks and water

Not suitable for

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  • People who are not comfortable on water
  • People with limited mobility

Important information

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What to bring

  • Please wear comfortable non restrictive clothing, these may get damp
  • Warm layer (e.g. thermal or fleece top)
  • Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses (with strap)
  • Water bottle


Know before you go

  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure
  • Let us know about any medical conditions or recent injuries
  • Trips may be rescheduled due to weather or river conditions for safety

Departure Point

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Paddle Wanaka, 151 - 153 Ardmore Street, Wanaka, 9305

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

Cancellaton Policy

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  • You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

FAQ

How long does it take to get to Ruby Island?

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On a kayak we suggest a 2-hour hire for a quick journey to Ruby Island. That’s usually enough time to get there and back with some time to walk around the island. If you want a more relaxed journey and want to take a picnic we recommend 3 hours.

What are the age restrictions for our kayaks and paddle boards?

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To use the equipment by yourself you must be over 16 years old, If you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a caregiver or supervised from the beach by a caregiver.

What are the weight limits for our kayaks?

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Our single kayak weight limit is 160kg, double kayak weight limit is 230kgs and our river single kayak weight limit is 130kg.

Do I need to be able to swim to hire a kayak or paddleboard?

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You don't need to know how to swim as we provide life jackets, however you need to be comfortable floating in the water in case you do fall in.

What happens if I do end up falling out of my kayak?

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Our staff will be monitoring the roys bay area making sure all our kayakers are safe. If you fall out you need to stay with your kayak and wait for our staff to come assist you.

What is provided?

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We provide life jackets and the equipment needed for the hire.

Can I bring a camera or a phone?

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You can at your own risk.

Do we have to book before we arrive?

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You do not need to make bookings for our kayaks and paddle boards as we do accept walk ins as well. However, if you want to ensure we have a kayak available at a specific time we do recommend booking.

FAQ

How long does the Bay Tour take?

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The Bay Tour is a 4-hour guided paddle. This includes time to explore, relax, and enjoy the journey. We recommend allowing a bit of extra time for check-in and briefing.

Do I need prior kayaking experience?

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Not at all! The Bay Tour is great for first time paddlers and families. The pace and the route will be adapted by your guide to fit the needs of the group.

What if the weather is bad?

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Safety comes first. We assess the weather conditions each morning and may adjust launch locations or cancel/reschedule the activity if needed. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll have the option to rebook or receive a refund.

What should I bring?

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All you’ll need is active clothing, sunscreen and other sun protection, a water bottle, and maybe your camera. We provide all safety gear, plus a splash jacket and spray skirt to keep you as dry as possible on the Bay Tour.

Can we have a private tour?

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Yes! If you would like a private tour, please contact us to book it.

Will I fall in?

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The kayaks we use for our Bay Tours are very stable, so it is unlikely that you will fall in. Your guide will be there to help you learn to use your boat and show you how to manouevre it safely, as well as to assist if you have any difficulties.