Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring?
CRUISE:
sun protection
warm clothing
camera
CRUISE & KAYAK:
as above plus towel
swimmers
change of clothes
footwear (will get wet)
dry bags supplied
~ Please don’t bring valuables!~
Do we offer pick up?
We can offer pickup and drop off for groups of 8 to 12 people from Byron Bay or Ballina at an additional charge.
Where do we pick up from?
Byron Visitor Centre on Jonson St (beside the main bus stop) or accommodation in Byron or Ballina - 1 pickup point per group.
Pick up times
See individual cruises for pick up times
Tour departure time
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. See individual cruises for departure times.
Where are we located?
We depart from the wharf at Brunswick Heads boat harbour on Tweed Street (Old Pacific Highway)
How do we find you?
Driving from Sydney Brunswick Heads is approximately 10 minutes drive north of Byron Bay on the Pacific Highway. Take the Brunswick Heads exit and follow the signs to Brunswick Heads (on the old Pacific Highway) follow this through town until you see the boat harbour on your right. From Brisbane and the Gold Coast – head south on the Pacific Highway, take the Ocean Shores, Brunswick Heads turn off and follow the signs to Brunswick Heads. The boat harbour is on your left just past the roundabout. You’ll find us opposite the fish & chip shop at the harbour (see map)
Are your cruises for everyone?
Yes except unfortunately we don't have wheelchair access.
Is the Eco Kayak,Cruise & SUP and the Guided Kayak or SUP Tours suitable for everyone?
Yes from 4 years +
How fit do I need to be to do the Kayak, Cruise & SUP or Guided Kayak or SUP Tours?
Rated easy - 2 person per kayak so you can share the paddling and take a rest
If I am an experienced kayaker will I enjoy Kayak, Cruise & SUP and the Guided Kayak or SUP Tour?
Yes, because of the expert commentary and the beautiful scenery, more adventurous group tours are available on request
Are the cruises and guided kayak tours safe?
Yes, the boat is purpose built and very stable. Life jackets are available on the big boat Jasmine in case of emergency and not required to be worn during the cruise. If you'd like one for yourself or a child on the cruise please ask our team.
For kayak tours: Double kayaks are also stable. We stay within the river (do not go across the river bar) and life jackets are supplied. Children under 12 must wear life jackets on the boat and all participants must wear them when kayaking.
Who runs the tours?
A licenced coxswain (skipper) drives the boat, a professional kayak guide does the kayaking instruction and guided tours. Our team is professional, knowledgeable and holds appropriate qualifications which are updated regularly.
What if I have never kayaked?
No prior experience is necessary
Will I be given instructions on how to kayak?
Yes, our qualified kayak guide will give instructions on how to paddle and manage the kayak before commencing the guided tours
What refreshments are provided?
Morning Cruise: Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cold drinks, cakes & biscuits.
Eco Kayak Cruise & Sup / Kayak or Sup Tours: Light lunch or salad or chicken roll, fresh fruit, snack biscuits and cold drinks.
Sunset Cruise: 1 complimentary wine or beer from the licensed bar & Tapas platters.
Water is available on all cruises & kayak tours.
What if I have special dietary needs?
We have a Gluten Free cake option on the Morning Cruise.
The Tapas platters on the Sunset Cruise have vegetarian/Vegan options and when possible have Gluten Free/Dairy Free dips. Gluten free chips & biscuits are avaiable.
Please advise us when booking and we will do our best to provide a suitable snack or you are welcome to bring your own.
Is it suitable for seniors? What about accessibility or wheelchairs?
The Eco Rainforest RIver Cruises are ideal for seniors. It is accessible for people with walkers - only 4 steps down from the wharf to the boat access and 2 steps onto the boat deck. People with walkers can be assisted by crew.
Unfortunately we don't have access for wheelchairs.
Eco Cruise & Kayak is rated easy and suitable for those who wish to try it (you can paddle for as little or as long as you feel comfortable, just let your guide know) – if you are unsure please consult your doctor if you have any medical conditions
How many people can go on your cruises and tours?
Maximum 49 passengers on the Eco Rainforest Cruises, a maximum of 12 on the Kayak, Cruise & SUP and a maximum of 16 on guided kayak tours (we have double kayaks which hold 2 adults and triyaks which hold 2 adults and 1 child
What if I have a group of more than 12 people for the Kayak, Cruise & SUP?
Please contact us and we will arrange a special tour for you where we can split the group to fit with our maximum numbers
Do you offer kayak hire?
No, for safety reasons we only offer guided kayak tours
Can I bring alcohol on your cruises?
No, we have a licensed bar on board and drinks may be purchased from the bar. We practice responsible service of alcohol. We reserve the right to return you to the wharf if you display any offensive behaviour.
