Simpsons Bay to Simpsons Point - Kayak

On the channel side of Simpsons Point is The Simpsons Point Marine Conservation Area. Due to the especially dark and cold waters that the currents create here, these waters are home to a unique array of species including the spiny pipehorse, Tasmanian numbfish, seawhips, sponges, ringed puffer fish and the endemic seastar.

Put your kayak in at the Simpsons Bay Boat Ramp, then hug the coastline as you paddle your way north along the bush-fringed rocky shoreline of the finger-like projection of Simpsons Point. This is a relatively sheltered paddle, with protection from southerly and westerly winds, however, winds with a northerly or easterly aspect may still affect you.

The coastline along here is a mixture of bushland and farmland, with a few pebble beaches along the way if you need a break or a leg stretch. You will have expansive views out over Isthmus Bay and Simpsons Bay back towards the neck, and, when looking south-east, of Fluted Cape.

Once you reach Simpsons Point, there is a decent pebble beach at the point where you can land and take in the views. From this point you will be able to look northward up the D’entrecasteaux Channel, and, on a clear day have views of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington in the distance. Facing Westward you will be looking out towards Middleton which is directly across the channel from Simpsons Point.

If you choose to explore around the corner of Simpsons Point in the Channel, keep in mind that you will now be exposed to winds from the south and the west as well as the north, and that these winds can funnel through the channel increasing their strength and speed. Once you have finished at Simpsons Point, begin paddling back the way you came south along the coastline and back to the boat ramp.

If you feel like paddling further, you can continue heading south-east through Simpsons bay toward the Neck. These broad, shallow coastal flats are host to a myriad of birdlife including black swans, pied and sooty oystercatchers and white-bellied sea eagles.

While in Simpsons bay, these coastal waters are relatively sheltered if you keep close to the shoreline. You are, however, somewhat exposed to northerly and easterly winds. It becomes more exposed, especially to the south, if you go round the corner of Simpsons Point into the Channel. There are also fast-flowing currents if you paddle into the channel, which are often visible from Simpsons Point.

Potential hazards to be aware of when kayaking include unpredictable wind strengths and directions, capsizing, hypothermia, sunstroke, and drowning. 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, which can be found here: https://mast.tas.gov.au/safe-b...