Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring?

Swimmers, wettable footwear, sunglasses, hat, DRINK BOTTLE, towel and sunscreen

What is the climate like on the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast has a sub-tropical climate with plenty of sunshine year round (in fact an average of 300 days a year). In summer temperatures range from 19 to 29 degrees Celsius (66 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit). In winter temperatures range from an average of 9 to 21 degrees Celsius (48 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit) - it's no wonder the Gold Coast is Australia's favourite playground.

What wildlife could we encounter?

You may encounter colourful subtropical fish, stingray, turtles, dolphins and even humpback whales during migration season, birdlife, Golden Swamp wallabies, goanna, bandicoot and echidna.

How often do tours run?

Half day tours run every day of the week - 364 days of the year, however please book early to secure your preferred date.  Full day group tours are on request.

How fit do I have to be?

Tours are suitable for all fitness levels and you do not need any previous kayaking experience.

Are tours suitable for children?

Yes, accompanied children from 8 years of age are welcome.  Younger children are on request.

Is it easy to tip over a Kayak?

No. Our kayaks are "sit on top", tri-hull with a low centre of gravity which makes them extremely stable - and self draining so the kayak does not hold water. In addition your Balunjali tour guide will provide you with a "trip plan" - including paddling and water safety information before your tour commences, so you'll be confident and at ease even if you have never kayaked before.

I am not a strong swimmer - are floatation devices provided?

Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) are provided for all of our guests. If you are not a strong swimmer or cannot swim, it is important that you keep your PFD on at all times.

What other equipment do you supply?

We supply your kayak, Personal Floatation Devices, snorkeling equipment and dry bags to protect your personal belongings. We recommend that you don't bring expensive cameras and personal possessions that can be damaged or lost.

Can I obtain photographs of our tour?

Yes, we have photography equipment (including an underwater camera) with us and we are happy to make these photos available to you on CD for a small cost.

What qualifications do your guides have?

Balunjali Tour Guides are qualified Sea-Kayak Instructors and hold the Balunjali Waterman Platinum Certificate. In addition they hold senior and remote first aid, "bush first aid" and remote bush survival skills.

Added to this, Indigenous guides are "truly skilled bushman" - with the ability to navigate without the aid of a GPS !

Can I be picked up from my hotel and is there a charge?

Complimentary transfers are available for our tour guests staying at all hotels along the coast from Surfers Paradise to Currumbin.  For guests staying in other areas of the Gold Coast, transfers are on request and a small charge may apply.  Transfers must be requested at the time of booking or by telephone on 07 5533 8527 at least 24 hours ahead of your tour date.

Complimentary transfers from major centres like Robina train station and Coolangatta airport for pre-booked groups are also available upon request.

I am self-driving, where do I go?

Half  Day Tours:

Tours depart from Mainbeach (just past Seaworld): follow the Gold Coast Highway north, turn into Waterways Drive and then into Seaworld Drive.  Follow Seaworld Drive (past Seaworld) and turn left into Muriel Henchman Drive to the car parking area and boat ramp.

CLICK HERE to link to Half Day Tour details and map.

Full Day Tours:

Tours depart from Anglers Esplanade at Runaway Bay: follow the Gold Coast Highway north. It turns into Marine Parade. Follow along and turn right at the roundabout into Bayview Street. Turn right into Jennifer Avenue at the T intersection turn left into Anglers Esplanade.

CLICK HERE to link to Full Day Tour details and map.

What is your cancellation policy?

Full information can be found in our cancellation policy - click this link to follow

Do you ever cancel your tours due to bad weather?

In the unlikely event of severe weather, we reserve the right to change the location and/or vary the tour experience, or in extreme weather conditions, we will offer you an alternate date or a full refund.

I want to tell you how much I enjoyed your tour - how do I leave feedback?

We love to hear your feedback.  Please click this link to write on our FACEBOOK page.