Perth: Guided Kayak Tour around Canning River Wetlands

If you’re looking for a way to escape the urban hustle and find some tranquility, the Canning River Wetlands kayak tour offers a refreshing slice of nature just a short drive from Perth’s city center. For $65 per person, you’ll spend about three hours paddling through shimmering waters, guided by knowledgeable local experts. Starting from the Old Riverton Bridge area, this trip promises peaceful views, intriguing wildlife, and a bit of local history—all from the comfort of a double kayak.

What we really love about this experience is how it makes nature accessible and approachable—especially in a city like Perth, where sprawling urban life can obscure natural beauty. The calm, sheltered waters are perfect for beginners or those who appreciate a gentle paddle. Plus, the guide’s stories about the area’s history and the native wildlife enrich the experience, making it more than just a paddle. That said, if you’re looking for a more physically demanding adventure, this might feel a bit on the mellow side.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy quiet, scenic activities—families, couples, or solo explorers eager to connect with nature without much fuss. It’s especially appealing to those interested in learning about local wildlife and history while enjoying a leisurely paddle.

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Key Points

Accessible for all fitness levels: The calm water and sheltered channels make it suitable for most.
Knowledgeable guides: They share insights into Perth’s native animals, wetlands, and history.
Easy-to-use equipment: Double kayak, life jackets, and dry bags are included, making setup hassle-free.
Perfect for a short escape: Three hours from start to finish is ideal for a morning or early afternoon activity.
Wildlife spotting: Expect to see birds, aquatic animals, and untouched wetland scenery.
Great value: At $65, it offers a balance of outdoor adventure and cultural insight.

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A Detailed Look at the Canning River Wetlands Kayak Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll gather at Old Riverton Bridge Park, located at the western end of the Old Riverton Bridge, at the corner of Fern Road and Riverton Drive East in Shelley. The guide, easily recognizable in a white GoGo Active shirt, will greet the group and provide the necessary gear, including a double kayak, life jackets, and a dry bag for your belongings.

This location is handy—close enough to Perth to feel like a quick escape, but far enough to immediately feel immersed in nature. The meeting process is straightforward, and the equipment is well-maintained, giving you confidence right from the start.

Itinerary and Experience

Your guide will take you from the starting point into twisting channels that wind through the wetlands. The journey begins with a gentle paddle upstream from the Old Riverton Bridge, where you’ll quickly notice the peaceful surroundings—only the sounds of birdsong and gentle splashes from your paddle break the silence.

As you glide along, the guide shares stories about the first Australians who lived in these wetlands, adding a layer of cultural significance that elevates the experience beyond just a paddle. We loved the way the guide’s insights brought the landscape to life, making us appreciate its ecological and historical importance.

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Wildlife and Nature

The wetlands are home to a variety of birds and aquatic animals. You might see herons, ducks, and perhaps even some waterbirds with striking plumage. The calm waters and sheltered channels create an ideal environment for wildlife viewing, and the guide will help identify species and share interesting facts.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way our guide pointed out the different birds and explained their behaviors—it made the experience richer.” The tranquility of the water makes it easy to observe animals without disturbance, enhancing the sense of connection with nature.

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Mid-Trip Break at Kent Street Weir

About halfway, you’ll arrive at the Kent Street Weir, where you’ll take a break at a local cafe. This pause is perfect for refueling, taking photos, or just soaking in the views. The Weir’s backdrop offers a lovely contrast between the natural wetlands and the engineered structure, providing a good photo opportunity.

Return Journey and Route Variations

After your break, you’ll turn back, but the guide will take a slightly different route to keep things interesting. The water remains calm and sheltered throughout, making this a relaxing paddle rather than a strenuous workout. This approach also offers varied perspectives of the wetlands, which we appreciated.

Overall Experience and Value

The tour wraps up after approximately three hours, leaving you with a new appreciation for Perth’s urban wilderness. The inclusion of all necessary gear and the guide’s expertise make this a great value activity—especially for those new to kayaking or seeking a gentle outdoor adventure.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful outdoor activity. It’s also suitable for visitors who prefer guided tours that include cultural insights and wildlife spotting rather than challenging physical exertion.

The limited group size and professional guidance ensure that you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the dry bags help keep your belongings safe and dry, so you can relax and focus on the scenery.

Possible Considerations

While the calm waters are ideal for most, those with mobility issues or who are not comfortable in water might find the paddling too challenging, as this activity requires some basic paddling skills. The tour also does not include food or drinks, so bring your own if you’d like to stay hydrated or snack during your break.

Weather is another factor—on very windy or rainy days, the experience might be less enjoyable, so checking the forecast before booking is a good idea.

Who Should Book?

This tour appeals to nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see a different side of Perth. It’s particularly suited for travelers looking for a short, relaxing outdoor activity with plenty of wildlife and scenic views. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy tranquil experiences will find it a perfect fit.

The Sum Up

This guided kayak tour of the Canning River Wetlands offers a rare glimpse of Perth’s natural beauty within city limits. For just $65, you gain not only a peaceful paddle but also insights into the wildlife and history of this unique environment. The knowledgeable guides and well-maintained equipment make it an easy, enjoyable outing, even for beginners.

The calm waters, scenic views, and wildlife encounters make it a memorable way to connect with nature without a long trek or strenuous activity. If you’re in Perth and craving a gentle outdoor adventure that balances scenery, culture, and wildlife, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the calm, sheltered waters and included equipment make it ideal for those new to kayaking or looking for a relaxed experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about three hours, including the paddle, breaks, and time to enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity. The tour supplies dry bags for your valuables.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s a cafe stop at Kent Street Weir where you can purchase refreshments.

Is transportation to the meeting point easy?
Yes, the meeting point at Old Riverton Bridge Park is convenient and well-signposted.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
This activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, families with older children who are comfortable in water should enjoy this peaceful paddle.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of tranquil waterways, wildlife viewing, and insightful commentary about Perth’s history makes it a truly memorable experience.