The kayak launch and home base of Abel Tasman Kayaks at Mārahau, on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, is the place where guided sea kayak trips start. The company began in 1986, when it ran its first trip from Mārahau to Fisherman's Island, and it says it was New Zealand's first sea kayak company. Its fleet has more than 150 double and single kayaks, and it runs a water taxi that takes paddlers out from the base to start their trip. Tours can include return transport to and from Nelson or Motueka. Trips cover golden beaches, coves, lagoons, offshore islands, native forest and wildlife along the granite coast.
Guides and safety instructors are chosen for their warm personalities and their love of the national park, and all instructors are certified through NZOIA or have equivalent qualifications. The company says many of its guides return to the park each year. The owner's son grew up around the base and now guides there. The launch is in Mārahau, a short drive from Motueka and Nelson.