Hop onboard a boat, slide yourself into a kayak, and then stand up – carefully – onto a Stand Up Paddleboard for an eco experience like no other on the Brunswick River in Byron Bay.
It was with much excitement that I jumped into the colourful Toyota van just outside my hotel in Bryon Bay, ready for a day on the gorgeous Brunswick River up in Brunswick Heads – just a twenty minute drive north of Byron.
Call me ignorant, but for me, Bryon Bay conjured up images of surfing, backpackers and that famous lighthouse – you know, the one that sits on Australia’s most easterly point?
And that was about it.
Well, in about three hours, that was all about to change.
Run by husband and wife team, Simon and Lorraine Freeden, Byron Bay Eco Cruises and Kayaks offer unforgettable eco experiences in and around Bryon Bay, including a 3-hour Eco Kayak, Cruise & SUP tour along the Brunswick River surrounded by lush rainforest and many species of bird life.
Simon, a repository of knowledge and memorable sayings – e.g., “there’s a saying in the maritime world: a good day on the water has never been spoiled by a life-jacket!” – was a gracious host and guide, and boy did Simon know his stuff!
Well, I guess it was to be expected: not only is Simon an extremely friendly and knowledgeable kayak guide (and surf instructor), but he’s also an Environmental Scientist.
Meet Simon – our lovely guide!
But but to the actual tour, which includes fresh fruit, snacks, juice and soft drinks, as well as fun professional commentary for just $80 per person.
After departing from the Boat Harbour in Brunswick Heads, we sailed into the broad Brunswick River, spotting pelicans, white-bellied sea eagles, brahminy kites, and azure kingfishers along the way, with Simon and the rest of his crew’s help, of course.
Pelicans
White-bellied sea eagle
Brahminy kite
Azure kingfishers
We then stopped along the river bank where we received paddling instructions before sliding into our kayaks to paddle down a creek splitting off the main river.
And boy what a fantastic experience it was! There’s nothing like getting out in nature, completely surrounded by the local flora and fauna whilst paddling on a kayak.
This video should give you a taste of the experience – minus the serenity that comes with actually doing it yourself.
After a delicious spread of fruit, muesli bars, nuts and an assortment of beverages, we then tried Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) along the river.
I’m happy to report we had no casualties, as no one fell into the water (expect me, but that was on purpose!).
Back on dry land at the Boat Harbour, we all said our goodbyes, and I left having learnt a whole lot about the eco system in this part of our great nation, and having a helluva lot of fun in the process.
If you’d like to try the Eco Kayak, Cruise & SUP tour along the Brunswick River for yourself, or any of the other tours offered by Byron Bay Eco Cruises and Kayaks, then visit their website or email fun@byronbaycruises.com.au.
Alternatively, give them a call on 0410 016 926.
*Shaun Busuttil travelled courtesy of Byron Bay Eco Cruises and Kayaks.