Organizing a canoeing vacationkayak over several days with family or friends requires some organization beforehand. To go on a safe trip, the first thing to do is to contact your rental company according to your choice of river. The regulations are not the same on the different rivers, your rental company will be able to give you good advice and answer all the questions you may have.
From what age should children be taken on a canoe trip?
The minimum age to take your children on a canoe trip is 6 years old, with a few exceptions likeARDECHE which recommends 7 years old orAVEYRON which accepts children from 5 years old. However it is important that the child knows how to swim.
We also advise you to choose trips adapted to the age of the children (level of difficulty and distance/time).
Do you have to be able to swim to go canoeing?
The practice of canoeingkayak requires to be able to swim 25 m and to be able to put the head under water (to immerse), whether it is for a simple course or a several days trip.
Some tips for safe sailing
In France, the regulations allow you to ride on all rivers, but there are rules to follow in order to navigate safely.
Here are some tips for your canoe tripkayak :
- Wear the (compulsory) waistcoat provided by your rental company throughout your tour,
- wear closed shoes,
- be in good physical condition,
- find out about the route taken,
- Find out about weather conditions and water levels,
- Sailing in pairs or groups.
Levels of difficulty of rivers
Each river that allows canoeingkayak has a level of difficulty that allows the beginner to navigate.
The rating is class I with some class II passages. And for the more athletic rivers the rating is class I-II with class III passages.
Water levels and seasons
The canoe tripkayak is possible from spring to fall. It is possible to navigate in all weather conditions although it is more pleasant in good weather!
The water level of the rivers varies according to the season, with a greater flow in spring and autumn than in summer. For safety reasons, navigation may be prohibited under certain conditions, e.g. during floods.
Once again, don't hesitate to ask your canoe rental company before you leave for your trip...
Be eco-responsible:
Canoeing is a clean way to travel.
You will encounter exceptional flora and fauna which require a responsible attitude to combine the pleasure of discovery with respect for nature.
Discover the eco-gestures to adopt during your canoe tripkayak :
- Choose a water bottle that can be easily stowed on your boat
- Limit your food packaging
- Keep your rubbish with you until you find a rubbish bin and waste separation bins
- Find out about the regulations applied in the natural areas you pass through and respect them
- Be respectful of the fauna and flora (protected species)