Yarra River Rafting: Grade 2 Rapids Near Melbourne

Paddle through mini gorges and native bush on grade 2 rapids

Half-day rafting on the Yarra River near Melbourne where you paddle a two-person inflatable raft through grade 2 white water, native bush and mini gorges. The trip includes a guide, all safety gear, dry bags for your belongings, and a shuttle back to the meeting point. Children from age 5 are welcome. The river runs year-round and is especially high in winter.

The experience

Warrandtyte's stretch of the Yarra River sits close enough to Melbourne to be a half-day trip, but far enough that you paddle through mini gorges and valleys filled with native bush and wildlife. You and a partner share a two-person inflatable sports raft and paddle your way through grade 2 rapids: the kind that deliver thrills without requiring previous experience. The guide leads from the water, and the staff are qualified white water specialists trained in wilderness first aid and swift water rescue.

The three-hour paddle takes you through the river's best sections. You'll get wet, so wear shorts, shoes that stay on your feet, and either a thermal top, rashie or wetsuit. Bring a drink bottle, snacks, sunscreen and any medication you need. The operator provides helmets, life jackets, paddles and rafts. Dry bags hold your keys and valuables so they stay dry. After you finish, a car shuttle takes you back to the meeting point.

The Yarra runs well all year, but winter brings higher rainfall and bigger rapids if you want more intensity. The river is accessible year-round and suitable for all fitness levels, with children welcome from age 5.

What’s included

• Two-person inflatable raft, paddles, helmets and life jackets.
• dry bags to store your keys and valuables.
• car shuttle back to the meeting point after the paddle.
• live guide throughout the trip.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:30 and 13:30

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Under 5: can't be included in the booking

GroupPrivate

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 if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessiblePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Warrandyte Adventure Tours

Is this one for you?You paddle the raft yourself with a partner, so this suits anyone who wants to be active on the water rather than watch from a boat. The guide leads from the water and coaches you through the rapids, making it accessible for first-timers and families with children from age 5.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 12 years). Under 5: they can't be included in the booking.

What does grade 2 white water feel like for someone who has never rafted before?

Grade 2 rapids are fun and splashy without being dangerous. They deliver the thrill and spills of white water rafting without requiring any prior experience. You'll paddle actively through the rapids with your partner, and the guide leads from the water to coach you through.

How long does the Yarra River rafting trip take from start to finish?

The paddle itself is three hours. The operator provides a car shuttle back to the meeting point after you finish, so plan for a half-day outing from Melbourne.

What should I wear and bring for the Yarra River rafting?

Wear shorts, a thermal top or rashie or wetsuit, and shoes that can get wet and stay on your feet like runners or water sandals. Bring a drink bottle, snacks, sunscreen and any medication you need. The operator supplies helmets, life jackets, paddles and rafts, and provides dry bags to keep your keys and valuables safe.

Is the Yarra River rafting trip better in winter or summer?

The river runs well year-round, but winter brings higher rainfall and bigger rapids if you want more intensity. Summer is also a good time to paddle. The choice depends on whether you prefer calmer or more challenging white water.