The Hunter River is the main tidal water body flowing through Newcastle, forming a broad estuary and harbor. Paddlers can launch from the river mouth or from the Carrington Boat Ramp, which is located on Throsby Creek and provides access downstream into the Hunter River. From Carrington, a popular route takes you across Newcastle Harbour and the North Arm of the Hunter River, extending as far as the Stockton Bridge. This trip offers views of Newcastle City. The Hunter River has played a significant role in the development of modern Newcastle, and the surrounding area includes mangrove wetlands, which are part of the nearby Hunter Wetlands National Park. The river is also used for commercial boat traffic and dolphin and whale watching tours, indicating the presence of vessel traffic that paddlers must navigate. A full-day kayak adventure on the Hunter Wetlands is a popular tour option, located just a fifteen-minute drive from Newcastle city center.