Is it safe to kayak in the Brisbane River?


Is it safe to kayak in the Brisbane River? Is it safe to kayak in the Brisbane River? Yes, the Brisbane River is safe for kayaking. The waterway can be busy, and you should keep out of the ferry lanes at all times. The river is the busiest close to the city, so that you can head upstream for a quieter experience.


What should you not do while kayaking?

On the water
  1. Don't paddle if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  2. Use extra caution when paddling in cold water. ...
  3. Never strap a person or lifejacket to a canoe or kayak.
  4. Paddling in a group is safer than paddling alone.


Is the Brisbane River water clean?

While the river is dirty, Dr Maxwell stresses it's cleaner than it has been. Just because it's brown it doesn't mean it's polluted [or] that it's dangerous necessarily for humans to contact. That's a legacy from when industry used the river as the city's drain.


Is it safe to kayak in a river?

If you're alone (which we don't advise!) then be sure to get your paddle and boat, then head to shore to empty the water and climb back in. Rivers are a wonderful kayaking environment as long as you're prepared for the currents and potential hazards.