Kayaking on Launceston's Tamar River: Pedal-Powered Hobie Kayaks

Pedal power frees your hands to steer and photograph while your legs do the work

Guided kayaking on Launceston's Tamar River using pedal-powered Hobie kayaks with Mirage drive foot flippers, letting you paddle hands-free. You meet at the North Esk seaport for a safety briefing, then paddle downstream past the old docks and yacht basin, cross the river, and paddle upstream into Cataract Gorge under the Kings Bridge before returning to base. The 90-minute outing runs with a local guide. All equipment is provided, and the route adjusts for tides and group ability.

The experience

You arrive at the kayak shed on the North Esk River at Launceston Seaport, where the guide fits you with safety gear and walks you through how the Mirage drive works. Unlike a traditional paddle kayak, your feet power the flippers while your hands stay free to steer, balance and hold a camera. Once everyone is ready, the group launches downstream toward the junction with the Tamar River.

The paddle takes you past the old docks on the right bank, then across the river and back upstream past the yacht basin. The route then leads under the historic Kings Bridge into the lower reaches of Cataract Gorge on the South Esk River, where the cliffs on both sides create a backdrop for photos. The guide may adjust the order depending on the tides and what the group wants to see, so the experience shifts with conditions and your interests.

You return to the North Esk River to pass some of Launceston's historic buildings before heading back to the pontoon. The whole outing runs about 90 minutes. All equipment is included, and the kayaks are suitable for all fitness levels. Electric drives are available on request for anyone with limited lower limb mobility.

What’s included

• Local guide leading the group.
• all kayak equipment and safety gear.
• pedal-powered Hobie kayak with Mirage drive foot flippers.
• electric drive option available on request for limited lower limb mobility.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day13 departure times: the first at 07:00, the last at 19:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (17 and older) · Youth (9 to 16 years) · Child (3 to 8 years) · Infant (1 to 2 years): free

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Launceston Kayak Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you have a free afternoon in Launceston and want to paddle under your own power without the arm fatigue of a hand paddle. The foot-powered design suits anyone from age one to older adults, and the 90-minute length fits between other plans without eating the whole day.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (9 to 16 years); Child (3 to 8 years); Infant (1 to 2 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What happens if the weather turns bad on the day?

The activity operates in most conditions if you dress appropriately. If extreme weather forces a cancellation, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

Do I need to bring my own paddle or life jacket?

All necessary equipment, including safety gear and the kayak itself, is provided. You just need to bring appropriate clothing for the weather and water conditions.

What makes the Mirage drive different from a regular kayak paddle?

The Mirage drive uses foot-powered flippers instead of a hand paddle, so your legs propel the kayak while your hands remain free to steer, balance and take photographs.

Is the Tamar River route affected by tides?

Yes, the paddle is subject to tides, and the guide may adjust the route order to make the best use of them and match the group's abilities and interests.