Sea Kayak Adventures is the kayaker’s sea kayak company. We specialize in nature-based paddling for the intrepid traveler with an emphasis on experiencing the environment of the Marlborough Sounds without interfering with its delicate ecosystems.
From our large purpose-built base at Anakiwa, with plenty of safe parking available, we are literally minutes from the shoreline of the best sea kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds. The Queen Charlotte Track also beckons close by with options for hiking and mountain biking.
The Marlborough Sounds offers some of the best sea kayaking experiences in New Zealand – away from the crowds with beauty and wildlife in abundance. It is located at the ‘top end’ of the South Island and covers an area of 50,825 hectares, ranging from Durville Island in the West to Port Underwood and Whites Bay in the South West. Unlike many parks it is not a single unit but separated into 104 different reserves, allowing a wide range of social activities to occur within the many confines of its watery expanses.
Wildlife
The Sounds are home to a wide variety of bird and marine life, with a number of specific wildlife sanctuaries dotted throughout its waterways and inlets. Seabirds are in abundance and include species such as:
- Petrels
- Shags
- Blue penguins
- Gannets
- Terns
- Gulls
The local marine life is also varied. Sea kayaking through this region is an ideal way to observe the Seals, Dolphins and at times Whales, without unduly disturbing them. Hectors Dolphins are also to be found within the sheltered waterways of the Sounds. These gentle creatures are currently endangered and and are endemic to New Zealand Waters which means that they are found NO WHERE ELSE in the world.
The Land
Besides the waterways of the Marlborough Sounds there are also many tracks and walkways that penetrate the 1475km of coastal inlets. One of the most accessible and user friendly is the Queen Charlotte Track. This magical walkway is an excellent choice to combine with one of our Sea Kayaking Adventures!
Throughout the sounds you will be able to find nature reserves that are open and accessible from the water. Paddle your kayak up onto one of these Islands and go and explore the protected worlds they contain.
