Middleton - Simpsons Point circuit - Kayak

The Simpsons Point Marine Conservation area is home to a unique array of species including the spiny pipehorse, Tasmanian numbfish, seawhips, sponges, ringed puffer fish and the endemic seastar. These species are normally only found in much deeper waters, however, they are able to live here in shallower habitats as a result of the dark water and cold currents running through the water.

From your put in point at Middleton Beach, it is an approximately 3km paddle across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel to Simpsons Point. Simpsons Point is east/south/east from Middleton Beach and pokes out seperating Isthmus Bay from the Channel, making it an easy point to aim at during the crossing.

Upon arrival at the picturesque Simpsons Point, there is a pebble beach to land on and some decent rocks to sit on for a snack break, with expansive views to the north of the D'entrecasteaux Channel and Kunanyi/Mount Wellington in the distance. From here it is worthwhile paddling a short distance around the point into Isthmus Bay for views over The Neck, and south looking out towards the impressive cliffs of Fluted Cape in the distance. The coastline is especially protected from southerly winds in Isthmus Bay, making it a good option to explore further if that is the dominant wind direction.

Once you have finished at Isthmus Bay and Simpsons Point, head back around into the Channel and begin paddling south along the coast. This area is the Simpsons Point Marine Conservation Area, and there are a number of pebble beaches you can land on if you feel like a break. This area has rocky, windswept, forested coastline, with the dominant tree types being casuarina and eucalyptus, as well as a range of low-lying coastal shrubs and trees.

After paddling for around 4-5km, you will reach a point with notable sandstone cliffs. From here, you can begin paddling back across the channel towards Three Huts Point in Gordon. paddling in a west/north/westerly direction it is approximately 2.5km across to Three Huts Point. From here, make your way north up the channel towards Middleton. There is a public toilet at Gordon Foreshore Reserve Campground if you need a break before making your way back to your starting point at Middleton Beach.

This is a decent day’s paddling and paddlers should be fit enough to manage the return across the Channel and also any change in conditions and winds that could make it a harder return.

Whilst it is a little more protected closer to the shoreline, the traverse across the middle of the D'entrecasteaux Channel here can be exposed and choppy on windy and rough days. The crossing is especially exposed to northerly and southerly winds which can pick up without warning, and there is notable tidal flow through this waterway. It is also worth noting that if strong westerly winds picked up it may be difficult to return to mainland Tasmania from Bruny Island, making it important to have an accurate weather forecast with detailed wind predictions.

Potential hazards to be aware of when kayaking include unpredictable wind strengths and directions, capsizing, hypothermia, sunstroke, and drowning. While this trip may appear protected, it can become very choppy and rough without warning in the middle of the channel, and proper preperation and safety precautions are essential. To best prevent these incidents from occurring it is crucial that appropriate safety equipment is used, and the kayaker should have a sound understanding of the effects of wind, currents, and water temperature in the local area. Prior to undertaking this trip, kayakers should review the local safety equipment requirements and other safety information as outlined by MAST. There is a range of safety equipment you are required to use by law, which can be reviewed here: https://mast.tas.gov.au/safe-b...

It is always recommended that you paddle with a friend, and if you are unsure of your kayaking skills, you should first take a course with a Paddle Australia accredited trainer. Local paddling clubs are another good option if you need other people to kayak with and are a great way to upskill.