The tiny town of Marahau serves as your launchpad into Abel Tasman National Park’s treasures. The best guided experiences here center around kayaking, with several standout options. I’m especially fond of the marine reserve paddle, which brings you face-to-face with seals and rare blue penguins in their natural habitat. The Pitt Head combo tour – mixing guided kayaking with independent hiking – offers great flexibility and value. For the more adventurous, the “Two Gods” exploration blends water and walking trails perfectly. When time allows, the full-day “Soul Food” kayak journey provides the most comprehensive park experience. Let’s explore the top tour choices.
Key Points
- The Remote Marine Reserve – Guided Kayaking tour offers a scenic journey through a stunning natural environment with a high recommendation rate of 92%.
- The Seal Sanctuary Tour – Guided Kayaking provides a unique opportunity to kayak alongside New Zealand fur seals and blue penguins, with an overall rating of 4.8/5.
- The Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop is a 5-hour guided kayaking and self-guided walking adventure in Abel Tasman National Park, rated 4.8/5 and suitable for nature enthusiasts.
- The Two Gods – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk experience offers a combination of guided kayaking and self-guided walking, starting from Marahau and priced from $182.91 per person.
- The Soul Food – 1 Day Guided Kayak tour provides an immersive journey through Abel Tasman National Park’s landscapes, with a 100% recommendation rate and a 4.9/5 rating.
Remote Marine Reserve – Guided Kayaking – New Zealand
Although the Remote Marine Reserve in Marahau, New Zealand offers guided kayaking tours, these excursions provide more than just a leisurely paddle.
Departing at 8:15 AM, the tours take guests on a journey through a stunning natural environment, with a maximum of 100 participants.
Travelers can look forward to a delightful lunch featuring local produce, as well as safety precautions like thorough preparation and safety equipment.
While there are some inherent risks, such as personal injury or property damage, the tour operator takes measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
With an impressive 92% recommendation rate from previous guests, this guided kayak tour is an excellent way to explore the remote marine reserve.
Read our full review: Remote Marine Reserve – Guided Kayaking – New Zealand Review
Book now: Check availability
Seal Sanctuary Tour – Guided Kayaking – New Zealand
The Seal Sanctuary Tour in Marahau, New Zealand, offers visitors a unique opportunity to kayak alongside the rugged coastline and observe the playful antics of New Zealand fur seals and blue penguins.
The guided tour includes a water taxi to Tonga Island, where participants can explore white-sand beaches and spot wildlife.
The 1.5-hour kayaking experience is complemented by a beachside lunch with freshly baked rolls, sweet snacks, fruit, coffee, and local juice.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates most travelers and emphasizes safety with detailed risk management.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 8 reviews, the Seal Sanctuary Tour provides an enjoyable and well-organized encounter with New Zealand’s marine life.
Read our full review: Seal Sanctuary Tour – Guided Kayaking – New Zealand Review
Book now: Check availability
Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk – New Zealand
Nestled within the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, the Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop offers visitors a unique blend of guided kayaking and self-guided exploration.
Operated by Abel Tasman Kayaks, this 5-hour adventure starts at 8:15 am and costs €128.03 per person, with a maximum group size of 8. The tour includes a freshly baked lunch and dietary requirements are catered for.
Though not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers, the activity may be modified or canceled for safety reasons.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 5 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive nature experience in Marahau.
Read our full review: Kayak & Pitt Head Nature Loop – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk – New Zealand Review
Book now: Check availability
The Two Gods – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk – New Zealand
Departing from the picturesque Marahau in Abel Tasman National Park, the guided kayak and self-guided walk of “The Two Gods” offers a captivating outdoor adventure. Priced from $182.91 per person, the experience includes a freshly baked lunch and caters to dietary requirements.
While return transport from nearby towns isn’t included, the meeting point is conveniently located. Though not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for most travelers, with emphasis on personal responsibility for safety.
Risks include potential injuries and property damage, but safety measures like training and equipment are in place. With a maximum of 100 participants, this guided kayak and self-guided walk promises an immersive exploration of the stunning New Zealand landscape.
Read our full review: The Two Gods – Guided Kayak & Unguided Walk – New Zealand Review
Book now: Check availability
Soul Food – 1 Day Guided Kayak New Zealand
Situated in the heart of the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, the Soul Food – 1 Day Guided Kayak offers an immersive journey through the park’s pristine landscapes.
Highlights include exploring sandy beaches, islands, and lagoons, as well as spotting New Zealand fur seals and native birds.
With a 4.9/5 rating from 25 reviews and a 100% recommendation, this eco-conscious tour promises an unforgettable experience.
The tour includes a freshly prepared lunch with local produce, and dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.
While transport to the meeting point isn’t included, the tour’s location near public transportation makes it accessible for most travelers.
Read our full review: Soul Food – 1 Day Guided Kayak New Zealand Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Marahau offers a variety of guided tours showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Kayaking adventures provide close encounters with marine life, while hiking trails offer scenic views. Visitors can choose from full-day guided expeditions or mix guided and self-guided experiences. With diverse options, travelers can find the right tour to suit their interests and explore Marahau’s captivating landscapes.