Frequently Asked Questions

How far can we paddle?
Paddling distance is determined by weather conditions, paddler’s experience and fitness. As a rule of thumb 5km hour is a leisurely paddling pace. 10-15km can be considered a comfortable amount of paddling for one day. Kayaking is not permitted on the eastern side of the Freycinet Peninsula, without permission of Freycinet Adventures.

How much gear can we take?
Double kayaks have storage for approximately two backpacks-worth of gear. Single kayaks can fit the equivalent of 1½ backpacks-worth of gear. Given the shape and size of the compartments, several small bags are preferable to one or two large ones.

What is the weather like?
The weather in Tasmania is varied. Be prepared for all extremes – including sun, rain, wind and cold.  During December to February the average daily temperature is around 25 degrees Celsius. During these months a daily sea breeze of an average 20 knots is typically experienced – the direction varies around the state. E.g. the Freycinet Peninsula experiences a north-east sea breeze (offshore on the western-side of the Peninsula).  During the remainder of the year air temperatures are cooler (frosts are experienced in winter), hours of daylight shorter and sea breeze less prominent.

What is the water temperature?
May vary from 10 degrees Celsius in the winter months to 18 degrees in the summer months.

What facilities are there? 
Facilities available in Coles Bay include: accommodation and camping, grocery stores, post office, bakery, tavern, petrol stations, restaurants, take aways.  The nearby towns of Bicheno (30 mins) and Swansea (45 mins) have a number of additional services including the Bendigo Bank, hardware stores and larger grocery stores.

Camping
There are several designated campsites on the Freycinet Peninsula that are managed by Parks & Wildlife. Facilities are limited to a basic bush toilet.    Call Parks & Wildlife Service office (03) 6256 7000.