For both rafters and outdoor enthusiasts the Franklin River is synonymous with wilderness conservation. It is one of the world's last great wild rivers and forges its course through the rugged South West of Tasmania. This is a river we know well in all its moods and changes as it flows through deep gorges, quiet pools and magnificent temperate rainforest.
Regardless of the river level, you will be in safe hands as our experienced guides have an unmatched safety record while the preparation of delicious meals will exceed expectations. Even though any descent of the Franklin is demanding it is not necessary to have previous rafting experience, however some wilderness experience along with a sound level of fitness is essential.
A flexible nature and a willingness to become part of a small crew immersed in the vast and remote wilderness will ensure a wealth of experiences.
Our Frenchman's Cap program adds a two-day challenging hike to our Franklin rafting trip.
We complete a steep ascent from the river to the quartzite dome of Frenchman's Cap (1443m), from where we gain 360 degree views over the entire South West wilderness.
Transfer to Collingwood Bridge
An early start today. You leave Hobart at 6.00am and drive to the put-in point at Collingwood Bridge. Here you will inflate and load the rafts. Before getting on the water the guides will provide a safety briefing and instruction in paddling the raft. Your destination this day is the junction of the Franklin and Collingwood rivers or downstream to the Aesthesia Ravine.
Raft to Irenabyss
Today you will tackle the Log Jam, Nasty Notch, Descension Gorge and float calmly through the Irenabyss and camp just either side of the river below the gorge.
Rafting the Upper Franklin
This is a long day, with some interesting paddling on the way with numerous campsites to be found on this upper stretch of the river.
(11 day trip only) Frenchman’s Cap Climb
Weather permitting you climb to Frenchman’s Cap from your base camp at Irenabyss. You will enjoy the spectacular view from the summit, looking out over the whole of South West Tasmania. Depending on the weather conditions, you will attempt the summit and return in one day. The two days allows you some flexibility to make the best of the conditions.
The Great Ravine
You reach the Great Ravine and the first major portage at the Churn. There are also some difficult sections along the river prior to reaching the Churn. You camp at Coruscades Camp within the Great Ravine.
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The Great Ravine to Rafters Basin
Takes you to the Rafters Basin and out of the Great Ravine. You paddle and portage through Coruscades, Livingstone's Cut, Thunderush and the Cauldron to the Mousehole. It is only a 2km paddle now from Mousehole to Rafter's Basin where you camp for the night.
Propsting Gorge to Newlands Cascades
The Black Forest or Newlands Cascades is your destination, depending on weather. If it's raining, Newlands Cave is the place to be, and you camp under an impressive, large rock overhang. Today you paddle through Propsting Gorge and some of the Franklins best rapids. After lunch, Newlands Cascades, the longest rapid on the river, will have to be negotiated en route to the campsite.
Rafting the Lower Franklin
Straightforward paddling to Blackman's Bend through the deep temperate rainforest of the lower river that was protected by the environmental protests of the early 1980's.
Kutakina Cave and the Lower Gordon River
Your camp tonight is at Sir John Falls on the Gordon River, about 5 km downstream of the junction of the Gordon and Franklin. On the way down the last section of the Franklin you will stop to explore the famous aboriginal cave, (Kutakina or "spirit") as well as passing by Double Falls, Big Fall and Verandah Cliffs.
End of Tour
Transfer by yacht in the morning to Strahan.
- 10 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 10 dinners
- rafts and experienced guides
- all rafting and safety equipment
- waterproof storage for personal gear
- group camping gear (tents, stoves, cooking gear and eating utensils)
- foam sleeping mats
- group first aid kit
- transport from Hobart
- an emergency satellite telephone
- wetsuit and paddling jacket hire
Start Date |
End Date |
| 25 November 2007 |
03 December 2007 |
| 02 December 2007 |
10 December 2007 |
| 09 December 2007 |
17 December 2007 |
| 28 December 2007 |
05 January 2008 |
|
| 13 January 2008 |
21 January 2008 |
| 26 January 2008 |
03 February 2008 |
| 09 February 2008 |
17 February 2008 |
| 23 February 2008 |
02 March 2008 |
| 08 March 2008 |
16 March 2008 |
| 22 March 2008 |
30 March 2008 |
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