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South Island

Start: Marahau
Locations: 3 See all
Travel Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 12

Details

Adventure Awaits at Abel Tasman’s Southern Shores

Adele Island in Abel Tasman National Park is home to a lively Seal Sanctuary where New Zealand Fur Seals, or Kekeno, thrive. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of watching these playful creatures bask on rocks or glide through the turquoise shallows. The island’s pristine environment offers a front-row seat to the region’s incredible marine life.

The journey begins with a scenic water taxi ride to Observation Beach, where the golden sands meet calm, inviting waters. From there, a guided kayak adventure leads you along the coastline, offering panoramic views and close encounters with wildlife. Every stroke of the paddle brings a deeper appreciation for this protected coastal haven.

Meet the Kekeno and Their Coastal Companions

As you approach Adele and Fisherman Islands, the distinctive bark of Kekeno echoes across the water. These inquisitive seals often swim alongside kayakers, creating a joyful and unforgettable experience. Their playful nature and curious glances make them a true highlight of Abel Tasman’s marine world.

Keep an eye out for Little Blue Penguins, the smallest of their kind, often seen darting through the water nearby. The return trip to Marahau allows time to relax and soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery. With its mix of wildlife encounters and natural beauty, this Seal Sanctuary tour captures the very essence of New Zealand’s coastal magic.

INCLUSIONS

  • Double kayak
  • Buoyancy vest, Paddle, Spray skirt, Paddle jacket
  • Dry bags for cameras
  • Friendly and experienced guide
  • One water taxi cruise
  • Free social-ready images and video
  • Lunch

WHAT TO BRING

  • Please bring personal water bottle
  • hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel
  • swimsuit, warm top (wool or fleece), wind jacket
  • walking shoes, cameras and any medication.

TOUR INFORMATION

  • Check-in time: 8:15 am & 11:00 am
  • Paddling time: Approximately 2 hours interspersed with breaks. No prior experience required
  • Nelson and Motueka Transfers available at an extra cost

AGE INFORMATION

  • Minimum Age: 12 years
  • Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on a 1:1 ratio

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

  • More than 48 hours before departure: 10% admin/cancellation fee applies**
  • Between 24 and 48 hours of departure: 50% refund**
  • Within 24 hours of departure: No refund
  • No-shows: Full payment charged, no refunds

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

In accordance with a change in New Zealand legislation, we are now obliged to inform a person seeking to participate in our adventure activity of any serious health and safety risks they may be exposed to by participating in the activity. We therefore include our Risk Disclosure Statement for you to pass on to your clients prior to them booking, so they are aware of the risks of participation.

Risk Disclosure:

In any outdoor adventure activity, participants are exposed to variations in weather conditions and therefore there is an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this water-based activity include but are not limited to; Personal Injury (sea sickness, heat stroke, hypothermia, drowning) and Property Damage. Abel Tasman Kayaks mitigate this risk through thorough preparation and adherence to a detailed Risk Identification and Management System. This includes providing you with the necessary information, training and safety equipment to participate in our activities. You are personally responsible for listening to our directions, adhering to our advice, and making responsible decisions to keep yourself safe. Additionally, we reserve the right to modify, alter or cancel activities at any given time if we feel your safety, or the safety of others may be compromised.

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