Turn the Water into Wine! Rafting ‘n’ Lunch
Overview:
Embark on a relaxing yet exciting white-water rafting adventure down the Yarra River, where you’ll experience both the calm and playful rapids of this picturesque waterway. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Yarra Valley, this is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature—no prior rafting experience needed! Grade 1 and 2 rapids only, this is definitely a more ‘connect with nature’ rafting trip exploring the River admiring flora & fauna, rather than high octane rapids. Following the raft, you will be transported to lunch with a Gin tasting along the way. Let’s paddle!
Itinerary:
Accommodation Pick Up
Meet & Greet, Safety Briefing (30 mins)
Arriving at the River’s edge, we will have a safety briefing and gear up. You’ll meet your local, highly knowledgeable guides. They’ll teach you the basics of paddling and guide you through the day. Time to launch the rafts.
Hit the Water! (2.5hrs)
We are in the rafts and travelling downstream, listening to insights about the area’s fascinating history, local wildlife, and natural wonders. As you float along, you’ll pass through gentle rapids and serene stretches of water, all while soaking in the beautiful surroundings of gorges and valleys. Although only 1hr from Melbourne, you will feel worlds away.
Transport to Balgownie Estate for Lunch & Wine Tasting (2.5hrs)
Next, we’ll make our way to Balgownie Estate, where you’ll indulge in a premium wine tasting session. Explore the rich, flavorful wines crafted from the estate’s own vineyards, guided by their knowledgeable staff. Enjoy the picturesque surroundings as you sip on some of the Yarra Valley’s finest wines. After all the action and tasting, it’s time to enjoy a well-deserved, delicious 3-course lunch at Restaurant 1309 + welcome drink. With stunning vineyard views and a menu that celebrates local produce, it’s the perfect way to refuel and toast to your day of adventure. You’ve earned it!
Gin Tasting at Stag Lane Distillery (30 mins)
Post lunch we will drop into Stag Lane Distillery, a family-run gem located on a stunning property in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a gin tasting featuring their exceptional spirits made from botanicals they grow themselves on-site. It’s the perfect spot to relax and savor the incredible flavors whilst reminiscing on the day had.
Accommodation Drop Off
Pricing:
Private Tours: 9.30am-3.30pm - 7 days per week
8-14 participants - $395.00 p/hd
Discounts for larger groups as per below - email hello@yarravalleyx.com.au or call 0476 188 044 for instant confirmation to obtain lower price
15-20 participants - $369.00 p/hd
21-28 participants - $339.00 p/hd
Accommodation pick ups from 8.30am where applicable
Minimum online booking for participants: 8
Maximum online booking for participants: 28
Reservations online for Private Tours can be made up until 72 hours before the start time.
If less than 72 hours before the start time or numbers exceed 28 people, please send your request to email: hello@yarravalleyx.com.au
Lunch can be substituted by email request to a Pub Luncheon at the Grand Hotel, Yarra Glen or Healesville Hotel - price decreases by $50.00 p/hd
Ages: 18+
Duration: 6hrs
Included:
✔ Transport in an air-conditioned bus & pick up/drop off at your Yarra Valley accommodation
✔ 3 hour rafting trip on the Yarra River
✔ Raft & paddle
✔ Personal flotation device (life jacket)
✔ Helmet
✔ Safety Briefing
✔ Tour Guide
✔ Optional Wine Tasting at Balgownie Estate before Lunch
✔ Premium 3-course Luncheon at Restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate + welcome drink
✔ Optional Gin Tasting at Stag Lane Gin Distillery
Excluded:
❌ Additional drinks purchased at lunch
❌ Any purchases at venues along the way
FAQs
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The simple answer is No. The rapids are only grades 1 and 2, so it is quite a gentle ride. All participants are required to wear a helmet and life jacket for their safety.
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Comfort is key. Bring a light jacket if the forecast looks a bit cool and closed toe shoes are a must. We also encourage sunglasses & suncream when applicable., and encourage you to bring a bottle of water. A change of clothes and a towel for the cautious is also a good idea.
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That might be entirely up to you! You will get wet somewhat so we encourage you to not wear your best Sunday shoes. Having a change of clothes on the bus isn’t the worst idea! On a hot day, you might want to have a swim in the River too.
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You may leave any small items you do not wish to carry during the raft on the bus. The bus will be locked during the duration of the ride. All belongings are left at your own risk.
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e-Bike Tours can still go ahead with forecasted rain, as long as it is not severe. Routes/times may be altered to ensure completion. In the event of severe weather (e.g. excessive rain, lightning, etc.) where the e-Bikes are not used at all, a credit will be given for the determined pro-rata amount of the e-Bike contribution to the Tour. A Tour, taking in same or similar site visits, along with planned hospitality lunch or dinner, will still occur to maximise enjoyment of the client.
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If a Tour is completely cancelled due to the decision of Yarra Valley X, then a full refund will be offered. If a tour is cancelled by the client, then a full refund will be offered if it is greater than 30 days from the Tour date.
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Riding bikes carries risk with a chance or injury. Each tour will have a minimum of one ride leader who will be an AusCycling accredited to lead groups, experienced in group riding and qualified for First Aid & CPR. Yarra Valley X is insured for $20m public liability insurance under Lloyds of London. A waiver & release form will be provided to all participants at the time of booking, or before the tour begins. The provision of this document and participation on the tour is acceptance of all terms.