Sea Kayaking provides a unique opportunity to experience
the natural wonders of Milford Sound. Gliding along at water
level allows the paddler to get a real feel for the enormity
of the peaks towering overhead, and if the opportunity presents
itself, a close encounter with the special marine wildlife
that regularly frequents the fiords.
Do I need to know how to paddle?
No previous paddling experience is needed. Before
each trip a comprehensive instruction session is provided
to all paddlers, no matter what previous experience
they have had.
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What level of fitness is required?
Paddling is a physical activity, but does not require
a high level of fitness. The trips are designed to
provide an enjoyable recreational and environmental
experience - it is not a race!! If you can walk for
over an hour you should have no problems. Some calm
days you will hardly notice that you are using your
muscles.
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What boats do we paddle in?
Sea Kayaks - They are designed for open water paddling,
so are very stable and very waterproof, keeping the
paddler dry and surprisingly comfortable.
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Do we get a boat each?
All guided paddling in Milford Sound is conducted
in double kayaks (for 2 people). This is to allow paddlers
to travel faster and experience more of the fiord (
2 people generally paddle faster than 1). Another advantage
of using double kayaks is the increased stability and
comfort. There are generally four double kayaks (8
people) in a group with one guide in a single kayak.
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Do we need any specialist paddling gear?
All paddling gear is provided including thermals and
waterproof paddling jackets. If you have your own thermals
(polypropylene) and prefer to use them ask your guide.
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How often do kayak trips go out on the fiord?
In summer there are trips that leave early in the
morning and late in the afternoon. The morning trips
are designed to capitalise on the calm waters first
thing in the day. The afternoon trips make the most
of the breezes that occur later in the day, by either
kayaking in the protected waters or starting the trip
out in the fiord and riding the wind and waves back
to the kayaking base.
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