Paddle from Hawthorn Rowing Club to Boathouse Drive on a self-guided Yarra River kayak hire. Enjoy urban river scenery, Herring Island stops and frequent wildlife sightings on a 3–4 hour downstream journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The Yarra presses against your hull as Melbourne fades to riverbank: a corridor of eucalypts, concrete boathouses and the occasional rower slicing the water. Starting at Hawthorn Rowing Club, paddlers launch into a stretch of river that threads the city to the bay, a one-way route that ends at Boathouse Drive and invites a slow, self-directed exploration.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to paddle for several hours and re-enter a stable kayak if needed
Wildlife
History
The Yarra (Birrarung) is of deep cultural significance to the Wurundjeri people; the river later became a focus for Melbourne’s rowing clubs and early industry along its banks.
Conservation
Water quality has improved through local restoration projects; keep impact low by taking all rubbish home, avoiding bank damage and not feeding wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Yarra River Kayak Hire today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to be at Hawthorn Rowing Club at least 20 minutes before launch to complete the safety briefing and fit your PFD.
Use public transport
Parking at the start is limited—take the tram or train to Hawthorn and walk to the launch site to avoid delays.
Wear quick-dry shoes
Expect to step in shallow water when launching and landing; old trainers or neoprene water shoes work best.
Respect wildlife and distance
Keep a wide berth from platypus, water birds and the resident seal; sudden approaches stress animals and risk capsizing.
Quick-dry shoes or water shoes
Protect feet during launches and provide grip on wet ramps.
Reusable water bottle
Hydration for a 3–4 hour outing; refill before you launch.
Light waterproof layer
Wind and river spray can be chilly in cooler months.
spring
Phone in waterproof case or small dry bag
Protect valuables and allow for navigation or emergency calls.