Just jump in a kayak and paddle the area around Port Adelaide - one of the largest ship graveyards in Australia.
While the port was once a thriving maritime hub, these calm waters are now littered with hidden treasures from times past.
The Blue Water Sea Kayaking tour commences from Garden Island, a popular family spot just ten minutes' drive from Port Adelaide. From here visitors take off on a three hour adventure through areas scattered with a diverse mix of vessel remains. Cruising around these parts you'll see a world of ships including steamers, motor vessels, ferries, coastal traders and sailing ships.
When local and international shipping increased in the 1900s, the South Australian Harbours Board needed to dispose of many outdated ships. They chose to deliberately sink them around Port Adelaide and Garden Island because it was cheaper than sinking them in the deep sea. The end result is a ships graveyard that gives a fascinating insight into maritime history.
The sea kayaks allow you to get right up close to view impressive hulks like the majestic Santiago. Built nearly 150 years ago in Scotland and dismantled around 1900, the Santiago is one of the worlds oldest iron vessels.
Among the other sunken ships is the Dorothy H. Sterling, with its own private beach and mangrove, and the Glaucus, considered the most imposing vessel in Garden Islands ship graveyard.
Once youve explored the area around Garden Island, head to the Port Dock Brewery Hotel in Port Adelaide. In operation since 1855, the pub once welcomed hordes of thirsty sailors through its doors. Still reminiscent of those days, the pub is a great place to end a historical maritime tour with a king-sized seafood platter.
The facts
Port Adelaide Ships Graveyard tour costs $40 for adults and $20 for kids.
Blue Water Sea Kayaking
Tel: 08 8295 8812
For accommodation in Port Adelaide, the Largs Pier Hotel Motel has rooms starting from $75 per night.
The Largs Pier Hotel Motel
Tel: 08 8449 5666
Port Dock Brewery Hotel
Tel: 08 8240 0187
Heritage South Australia
Department for Environment and Heritage
Tel: 08 8204 9262
South Australian Tourism Commission
Tel: 1300 655 276
Port Adelaide Visitor Information Centre
Tel: 08 8405 6564
