franklinriverrafting

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This winter we have been spending some time in Norway working with the ladies and gentlemen at Sjoa Rafting.

Here are a few snippets of summer in Norge.

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This is adventure at its best, an 8- or 10-day whitewater-rafting journey that will take you into the heart of one of Australia's most pristine natural wonders, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park in Tasmania.

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 10 of the Best White Water Rafting Spots in Australia & New Zealand

                                     Franklin River Rafting 

Epic, multi-day rafting journey through untouched wilderness; exploration of            one of the most remote parts of Australia - @experienceoz 

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Stop by on our Instagram page for the full collection of our latest photos and videos. 

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What it offers: Epic, multi-day rafting journey through untouched wilderness; exploration of one of the most remote parts of Australia

One of the world’s remotest raftable rivers located deep within the depths of the south-west Tasmanian wilderness, the Franklin River is a wild and unmolested jewel in the heart of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. While it’s not a journey for the uninitiated, rafting trips don’t get much more “epic” thank this; those looking to raft the Franklin River do so as part of extended, multi-day journeys that involve almost as much wilderness exploration and portage as actual rafting itself.

In return for this extended time and monetary investment, aspiring rafters are rewarded with some incredibly pristine scenery that’s remained wholly untouched by man due to landmark conservation efforts that resulted in a World Heritage-protected status for the region.

The environment here is, in many ways, emblematic of the often-prehistoric feeling of Tassie’s nature as a whole; think a mixture of ruggedly scenic gorges, quietly swirling pools and towering examples of ancient Huon pines that often approach the waters of the river itself, and you’ve got an encapsulation of what such a rafting journey along the Franklin entails.

Image: @wolfgangglowackiphotography-blog 

As a result of its protected nature, rafting trips here are conducted with minimal environmental impact in mind and have been for decades, leaving the river in remarkably good shape; drinking the water directly from the boat is not only possible, but comes both recommended and refreshing.

The Franklin River’s low visitor numbers are another large reason why – estimates of yearly rafters of the Franklin River hover around the 500 mark – and as a result, the ability to truly get lost in the wilderness and not encounter another human soul outside your own group gives it a magic unique among Aussie / NZ rafting journeys. You’ll certainly encounter some animal friends, however, including a chance at some rarities such as platypus, quolls, and various other native gems.

The environment here is, in many ways, emblematic of the often-prehistoric feeling of Tasmania’s nature as a whole.

As one might expect from such an untamed region, unpredictable elements such as inclement weather and water conditions can sometimes come into play, and a fair amount of portaging is required. While it’s possible for veteran rafters to conquer the river on its own, these unforeseeable circumstances mean travelling with a guide comes highly recommended.

Franklin River rafting adventures can be conducted over both 8 and 10 day itineraries, with camping in an eco-friendly manner of an evening the name of the game. Trips here are offered by family-owned Tasmanian company Franklin River Rafting, who focus on smaller and more intimate rafting expeditions.

Their highly-experienced guides offer benefits in terms of both rafting and cookery, with a focus on making meals as enjoyable as the rest of the journey. Locally-sourced Tasmanian produce keeps well in the cooler Tasmanian climate, with a mixture of veggies and meats ideal for recharging after an adventurous but tiring day navigating the Franklin’s waters.

Franklin River Rafting season runs from October through April in order to capitalise on warmth, with trips departing from Hobart and going via the town of Strahan on the Tassie west coast. While it’s an adventure largely suited for experienced rafters, there are few rafting trips in Australia and New Zealand that scream “bucket list” quite like the Franklin.

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A nice little write up from the Rafting Magazine about the Franklin River.

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Hold on and get down in Tasmania's remote wilderness. 

With some big fronts hitting Tasmania this spring we have been blessed with world class white water. 

The Franklin River runs entirely free and depends on rain for all of its flow. When it rains it pours and the result is a heart thumping adventure unlike any other. Check out some quick snippets from our first trip of the season 2016/17.

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How to get dressed 

It’s all about the layers. This is a quick guide on how to stay nice and comfortable on your journey down the river. 

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Oh crap! or should it be Oh Crêpe ?

Adrian displaying some of his master chef techniques in the wilds of the Franklin River. 

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A selection of our latest shots on Instagram .

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Oh crap! or should it be Oh Crêpe ? Adrian displaying some of his master chef techniques in the wilds of the Franklin River.

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Our latest shots from @instagram

Enjoy 

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Do you have a sweet tooth? Then listen up. We are trying to pimp our dessert selection for the upcoming summer rafting season. Any good tips, hints or ideas of what we could ad to our menu? Please get in touch with us 

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Amazing perspectives by Cameron Blake from the Franklin River Wild National Park. 

Cameron says : 

“One of Tassie's wildest and most infamous rivers - the Franklin - and the distinctive profile of Frenchmans Cap in this image from @camblakephotography. In the 1970s and 80s, the Franklin River was at the heart of the largest conservation battles in Australian history - a battle that led to the formation of a major political party and ultimately the demise of a federal government. These days the region forms part of the World Heritage-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area - an easily accessible reserve of over 1.5 million hectares that comprises more than one-fifth of Tasmania's total land mass. It's an area of Tasmania, and indeed the world, that will easily imprint on your memory. 

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Deep in the remote Tasmanian World Heritage Area lies one of the most pristine rivers on the planet. For millions of years the Franklin River has run free, Indifferent to, and unmolested by human kind.

Some great footage taken over 4 fantastic summers on the river. Thanks to everyone for joining us for all the good times and joining us for the adventure.

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It doesn't get any cuter than this Pygmy Possum we spotted on the river this summer.