WHAT’S INVOLVED

Our Everglades trips make for a full day out on the water, with around 5–6 hours of paddling broken up with plenty of time to stop, rest, and take it all in. You don’t need any prior experience — just a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to get out there.

The recommended full-day route is an 18km return paddle. This includes an 8km crossing of Lake Cootharaba, which can be more exposed and wind-affected at times. We keep a close eye on conditions and will always talk you through your options on the day.

You’re free to paddle as little or as far as you like, turning around whenever it suits you. If you’d prefer a shorter or more relaxed paddle, our Water Taxi can take you straight to the Kinaba Information Centre — the start of the Noosa Everglades — so you can skip the lake and focus on the calmer sections of the river.

We monitor the weather closely and have a fair cancellation policy in place if conditions aren’t looking great, so you can book with confidence.

Looking for something even easier? Our Paddle ‘N’ Picnic option is a more relaxed way to enjoy the southern end of this beautiful waterway.
 

​

​​

​

​​

​

​

​

​​

​

START TIMES & LAUNCH LOCATIONS

We recommend early starts to take advantage of calm morning conditions. We'll meet between 7:00–8:00am, depending on the season. Your exact time will be confirmed when you book. We're open from sunrise, so let us know if you'd like to start earlier or later.

You can launch from:​

• Elanda Point public ramp (closest launch point to the Noosa Everglades)

• Water taxi bookings will depart from Boreen Point Lakefront. 

​​​​

WHAT WE PROVIDE

• Canoes or kayaks with paddles

• All required safety gear, including PFDs (buoyancy vests)

• Dry bag for valuables

• Accurate maps and a suggested route

• Access to a self-guided audio tour, sharing stories about the area’s history, wildlife, and unique ecosystem

• Full briefing on navigation, landmarks, emergency procedures, and paddling techniques

• Optional water taxi transfers between Boreen Point and Kinaba Information Centre
   

WHAT TO BRING

• Food, drinks & snacks (at least 2–3L water per person)

• Hat, sunscreen & insect repellent

• Comfortable, sun-safe clothing

• Spray or fleece jacket (in case of wind or rain)

• Swimwear & towel

• Thongs or sandals (closed shoes not recommended)

• Camera & mobile phone (for photos and safety)

• Fishing gear (optional)

• Cash or card for payment
   

Please be mindful of weight. We suggest a small backpack with just the essentials.
 

HIGHLIGHTS 

• Kinaba Information Centre – accessible by paddle, with displays and maps

• Elevated mangrove boardwalk near Kinaba

• Figtree Point – with jetty, picnic areas, toilets, and a circular forest walk

• Figtree Lake & Lake Como – each unique in their own way

• The Narrows – famous for its mirror-like reflections

• Harrys Hut campground and multiple other riverside camps

• Various walking trails including those to Kinaba, Harrys Hut, Camp Site 3

• Cooloola Sandpatch walk – a 3–4 hr return hike with stunning views

• The water taxi ride itself is a scenic highlight if you choose this option

It’s unlikely you’ll see it all in one day – which is why we recommend starting early!

​​

CANOE OR KAYAK?

We offer both Old Town Canadian-style canoes and Ocean Kayak sit-on kayaks:

Canoes

• More comfortable seating with supportive backrests

• Better storage space and gear access

• Sit higher – easier on the back and legs

• More stable in small waves or boat wash

• Can be paddled with single or double-bladed paddles

Kayaks

• Sit-on style with foot-controlled rudders

• More efficient and slightly faster

• Lower profile – less affected by wind

• Rudder steering helps with maneuverability

Canoes offer more comfort, while kayaks are easier to paddle. Most of the river is sheltered, so wind isn’t a major factor. It usually comes down to personal preference—and remember, it’s not a race!
 

SAFETY FIRST

Your safety is our top priority. Please note that outdoor activities carry some risk, and reasonable health is required for a day of paddling.

Key Safety Info:

• Weather matters – check the forecast, especially wind strength and direction. Mornings are typically calmer.

• You can cancel or reschedule anytime if weather conditions are unsafe – no pressure, no fees.

• Mobile phone coverage is good on Lake Cootharaba and nearby hills, but patchy further into the river.

• In case of emergency, passing boats or tour operators are a good first contact.

• We have a rescue boat and national park rangers are active in the area.

• Emergency vehicle access is available at Harrys Hut campground.

• Our pre-departure briefing covers all necessary safety and emergency info.