Accessibility Policy | Sydney Kayak Experience

Plan Your Accessible Kayaking Experience

If you have specific accessibility requirements or questions, we encourage you to contact our friendly team before booking. We can discuss your individual needs, explain what to expect and explore how we can help you safely and comfortably enjoy kayaking on Sydney Harbour.

We can provide detailed information about the experience, written instructions and visual guides, quieter tour options and additional support where possible. We also welcome support persons and assistance animals.

We aim to accommodate every guest wherever safely possible. As kayaking takes place on open water, we assess individual requirements on a case-by-case basis. In some circumstances, participation may not be possible due to safety considerations, weather conditions or the physical nature of the experience.

Please contact us as early as possible so we can understand your needs and work with you to create the best possible experience.

Our Accessibility Features

Sydney Kayak Experience is committed to providing inclusive and accessible kayaking experiences. We welcome guests with different access requirements and offer a range of equipment and support options.

Mobility and kayak transfers:

Our launch locations have step free access. We provide a kayak transfer bench and non-slip matting to support safer entry into and exit from the kayak.

Adaptive equipment:

Kayak stabilisers are available for additional balance, while optional paddle grips can assist guests with limited grip strength. Our kayaks also feature adjustable back supports and footrests.

Communication support:

Safety information is available in written and plain-English formats. Communication cards are also available for guests who are non-verbal or prefer alternative ways to communicate.

Hearing and vision support:

Written safety instructions are available for guests who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Our guides can provide verbal descriptions of the surroundings, equipment and procedures for guests who are blind or have low vision.

On water assistance:

Our guides carry tow ropes and can assist guests who become tired or require additional support during the tour.

Cognitive and sensory support:

We can provide a social script, quieter tour times, familiarisation information and additional time or support where needed.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower:

We are proud members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. Sunflower lanyards are available at check in for guests who wish to wear one.

Support persons and Companion Cards:

Support persons are welcome, and Sydney Kayak Experience accepts the Companion Card.

Assistance animals:

Assistance animals are welcome and may remain with their handlers in our dog friendly kayaks. Dog life jackets are available, and we offer a trial paddle with a guide to assess whether the animal would be comfortable participating in a full tour. Please contact us before booking if you plan to bring an assistance animal. Our meeting locations also provide access to open spaces, water and suitable toileting areas. The Flying Bear Cafe is also dog friendly.

Private and personalised tours:

Private experiences can be tailored to suit individual accessibility requirements, preferred pace, group size and support needs.

Breakfast and cafe access:

Our sunrise tour includes breakfast and coffee at The Flying Bear Cafe, located beside the launch point. The cafe has step-free access, and pictorial menus are available upon request to support guests with different communication or cognitive needs.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Sydney Kayak Experience is a proud member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, which helps make non-visible disabilities visible through the recognised Sunflower symbol.

Non-visible disabilities may include neurological, cognitive, neurodevelopmental, physical, visual, auditory, sensory or processing conditions.

Guests wearing a Sunflower lanyard, wristband or pin may require additional time, support, patience or understanding. Our team is trained to recognise the symbol and provide assistance wherever possible.

Accessible Parking

For our sunrise and day tours departing from Milson Park in Kirribilli, two designated accessible parking spaces are available on McDougall Street, close to the launch point. Step-free access is available from the street to the meeting area.

For our sunset tours departing from Lavender Bay, free street parking is available near the launch point, with step-free access to the meeting area. Please be aware that the surrounding area includes a hill, which may be difficult for some guests.

Please contact our team before your tour if you have specific parking or access requirements. We can provide further information and help you plan the most suitable arrival route.

Companion Cards

Guests with a disability who require a companion or carer to support them during their experience, are entitled to a free experience for the companion cardholder. Please call us on (04) 52633477 or email us at [email protected] to book an experience with a companion. All Australian State and Territory issued companion cards are accepted. For International guests, we ask that you please contact our team directly to discuss your specific requirements and how we can make it work for you.