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When you think of inflatable kayaks, Western NSW probably doesn’t spring to mind as an obvious destination.
However, we’ve camped along the Darling River many times over the years. And every time we go there, we think of how good it would be to paddle upstream and explore the river.
This time, we were on a mission to see the Darling River filling after big rains in Queensland. And this time we had a kayak!
We bought an Advanced Elements inflatable kayak a little while ago and we’re really impressed with it.
Paddling Up The River
We were camped at Louth, at our favourite spot on the Western side of the river. With the river flowing, we had plenty of water to paddle in. Launching under the Louth bridge, we headed upstream early morning. Despite being April, a late heatwave was baking Western NSW. Hence the decision to get onto the water early.
Once on the water, you get a completely different aspect. You’re in amongst the pelicans, other waterbirds and those crazy corellas… you’re in their territory now.
Giant red river gums stare down at you from the high banks. They look like they’re guarding the river, protecting it from any unwelcome visitors. You glide past kangaroos having an early morning drink… and soak up the peace and serenity.
Not so welcome are the feral goats. Western NSW is overrun with these filthy, stinking pests. They eat everything in sight and foul the water.
Looking For Snags
With Peta up front, she was on snag duty. No she wasn’t cooking breakfast… she was looking for any submerged sticks and branches that might give us grief. Rivers like the Darling are renowned for dangerous snags lurking beneath the water.
Now you might think we’re slightly mad to be trusting our lives with an inflatable kayak on this river. However we weren’t too worried. This kayak has multiple layers of material in the floor and the air chambers are made from a really thick, durable material. So our chances of disappearing without a trace were pretty slim.
Back On Dry Ground
With the kayak packed away, we sat back and reflected on what we had seen.
A kayak really does get you into another environment that’s only accessible from the water. And being so quiet, you don’t scare away the birds and animals. Of course they are wary, however they somehow don’t see that bright orange thing floating on the water as a threat.
So yes, the Darling River and inflatable kayaks really do go together!
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Any errors or omissions are mine alone.
NOTE: We purchased the Cruising In Comfort package at retail price. Our reviews are always honest and authentic – we tell it how it is.
Go here for more Reviews on Advanced Elements inflatable kayaks.