Kayaking on Durras Lake

Durras Lake is a saltwater inland lake about 8 km north of Batemans Bay fed by the Tasman Sea (aka Pacific Ocean). For Christmas we received a 4-hour kayak rental from Bay and Beyond for our family on Durras Lake and booked ourselves in for the 20th of December. Phil at Bay and Beyond was a great help getting us into our kayaks (singles each for Susan and Rachel, and a double for Natalie and me to share) and on our way.

We headed off from the boat launch inland along the river to Durras Lake. The double kayak was quite stable and Natalie and I had no trouble piloting our craft. Rachel and Susan, on the other hand, were in the sleeker, speedier craft and took a while longer to develop their balance and power stroke. About 45 minutes and 3 km from our starting point we landed for an energy break and a rest; our arms, shoulders, and necks were getting quite the workout. The return journey seemed quicker and since our technique was improving we were enjoying ourselves even more.

After reaching the boat launch, we decided to continue down river to where the mouth meets the sea. Unfortunately, the tide was low and there was no flow of water between the ocean and Durras Lake; that would have to wait until the tide was higher.

Our four hours were soon over and we headed home happy and well-worked out.