Epic guided tour down the Clutha River
Return Jet Boat ride to Wanaka
Iconic NZ adventure in a beautiful landscape
Commentary of the local area history and river ecosystems
Unique combination of scenery and adventure
$404 NZD ADULT
$344 NZD CHILD
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Join Paddle Wānaka for an unforgettable river journey on one of New Zealand’s most iconic waterways. Your adventure begins at our lakefront base, where we’ll kit you out with gear and shuttle you to the Outlet — the starting point of the Clutha River.
From here, you'll paddle downstream with our experienced guide, winding through turquoise waters, pressure waves, and peaceful riverbanks. You’ll take in incredible views of the Southern Alps, spot local birdlife, and hear stories of the river’s natural and cultural history.
After reaching the Red Bridge, we switch it up — trading paddles for horsepower. Climb aboard our jet boat for an exciting ride back upstream, finishing with a unique perspective of the journey you just conquered.
This half-day trip is the perfect mix of serene nature, gentle adventure, and thrilling return.
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What to bring
Know before you go
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Paddle Wanaka, 151 - 153 Ardmore Street, Wanaka, 9305
Open in Google MapsPlease check-in 15 minutes prior to departure at our Padde Wanaka beachfront trailer
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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.
How long does the tour take?
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Our kayak the Clutha tour is a 4-hour return guided paddle. This includes time to get to our start point, get familiar with the equipment, kayak the Clutha and enjoy the journey back to Wanaka via Jet Boat. We recommend allowing a bit of extra time for check-in, briefing, and transport to your launch site.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
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Yes, this activity is best suited to paddlers with some prior experience. You should be confident paddling for a few hours, understand basic safety, and be comfortable on moving water and swimming.
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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Make sure you’ve got swimwear, or something else you can wear under a wetsuit that is not cotton. You can bring a thermal layer as well if you are worried about being cold. We will provide wetsuits, booties, lifejackets and helmets for all participants.
Do I have to be able to swim?
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On this trip you are much more likely to fall in, so being able to swim will make you much more comfortable. Non-swimmers will likely enjoy the Tiki Tour more as an alternative trip.Taking a “swim” is all part of the fun! Your guide will teach you how to self-rescue before you get on the water, and will be nearby if you do tip out and need extra assistance. All guides are trained in swift water rescue and have done hundreds of rescues in their time.
What grade is the river?
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This is a grade 1 and 2 stretch of river. The whole river is very fast flowing, parts of it will be quite flat, especially at the beginning when you are still getting to know your kayak. Further down the rapids get more intense, with bigger waves and more exciting dynamics. At every rapid you will have the option of taking an easier “cruisy” route, or pushing yourself to take on some of the bigger features. Your guide will give you a solid explanation of each option so that you can pick the best line for you!
