The closest packrafting to Melbourne is on the Yarra and the Maribyrnong, two rivers that run right through the suburbs, with launches you can reach by train or tram. The Barwon at Geelong is about an hour down the highway, and Lake Eildon and the Gippsland Lakes make a weekend. Here are the waters to start with, and where to go once you are hooked.
Roll the raft into your pack and pick a direction.
Paddle from the suburbs
The Yarra River is the obvious first paddle. It winds through parkland and bushy reaches in the eastern suburbs before it reaches the city, and you can launch within walking distance of a train or tram in many places. Some sections are flat and easy, others have rapids and weirs that change character with rain. Stick to the gentle reaches.
The Maribyrnong River runs through the west and north-west to meet the Yarra near the port. The lower reaches are wide, tidal and flat, with walking paths along much of the bank, which makes it an easy place to learn.
Down the highway to Geelong
The Barwon River flows through Geelong on its way to the coast at Barwon Heads. Through Geelong it is a rowing river, flat and sheltered. Below the barrage it becomes estuary, with tide and wind to plan around.
North-east: lakes and valleys
Lake Eildon is a big reservoir in the foothills of the high country, with long arms, bush shoreline and room to explore for days. It suits a packraft overnight when the wind is kind. The shoreline moves with the water level, so check current levels before you plan a camp.
Below the dam, the Goulburn River runs cold and clear through farmland and red gum. It is a moving river with releases from Lake Eildon, so flows change with the season.
Further into the ranges, the Jamieson River and the Ovens River each have a trip guide of their own. Both reward a long weekend away from town.
East to Gippsland
The Gippsland Lakes are a huge network of coastal lakes and channels behind Ninety Mile Beach, with sheltered inlets and long shorelines to explore. Wind shapes each day on open water, so start early. The Mitchell River and the Thomson River feed this country too. They are rivers first, with rapids in places, so check conditions before you launch.
| Feature | Water type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Yarra River | Suburban river, mixed sections | Train-in day trips |
| Maribyrnong River | Wide, flat, tidal lower river | Learning, short loops |
| Barwon River | Rowing reach and estuary | Half days near Geelong |
| Lake Eildon | Large reservoir with arms | Overnights, long days |
| Goulburn River | Cold, clear moving river | Experienced day trips |
| Gippsland Lakes | Coastal lakes and channels | Multi-day touring |
Melbourne weather rules
Four seasons in a day is a cliché because it is true. Plan for it.
- Watch the wind forecast first. A cool change can arrive in minutes and turn a flat lake into whitecaps.
- Check rainfall and river gauges before a river trip. The Yarra and Goulburn rise and fall with rain and releases.
- Respect the cold. The Goulburn below the dam runs cold year round, and winter water anywhere in Victoria drops fast.
- Know the land manager. Parks Victoria manages much of this country, and the water authorities set rules on the reservoirs. Check with them for access and camping.
- Wear your PFD and leave your trip intentions with someone before you go.
Why a packraft suits this city
A packraft rides the train with you. Head out to the eastern suburbs, walk to the Yarra, paddle downstream and catch a different train home. No car shuttle, no roof racks. For the lakes and Gippsland, it rolls into the boot next to the tent and inflates at the water in minutes.
Paddling solo on the city rivers? The Solo carries the lightest. Planning overnights on Lake Eildon? The Tourer has room for kit. Bringing a partner to the Gippsland Lakes? That is the Duo.
Every Seeka self-bails and carries a two-year warranty on materials and welding. Or hire one for a weekend first.