Canoeing
The element water offers countless possibilities for sports activities: Unforgettable canoe tours can be undertaken on lakes, streams and rivers. Here you can find out what to consider when canoeing, for whom canoeing is suitable and what equipment is necessary for unforgettable paddling fun. You will also find some route suggestions in various regions.
The best regions
Canoe or kayak?
Since the terms canoe, canoeist, and kayak are often used interchangeably in everyday language, it's important to understand the differences between these watercraft. In general, "canoe" is the umbrella term. Depending on the type of trip you’re planning, canoes and kayaks may be more or less suitable.
Canoes are typically open at the top, while kayaks are usually enclosed with a single opening where you sit. Kayaking typically uses a double paddle, which many beginners find easier, while canoes use a single-bladed paddle. Canoes tend to be wider and have higher sides compared to kayaks, which allows kayaks to reach higher speeds. As a result, canoes are often chosen for more leisurely trips, while kayaks are favored for sportier outings. Canoes also offer more space for gear, and multiple people can board at once, though this depends on the specific type of canoe.
Things to know about canoe tours
Requirements for canoe tours
Canoeing is a fun and easy activity that anyone can try, from kids to adults, even without prior experience. However, it’s important for everyone, regardless of age, to be a good swimmer so you can safely reach the shore if you capsize. That said, even experienced swimmers should always wear a lifejacket while on the water.
As with any outdoor sport, it’s crucial to check the weather beforehand and take wind and weather warnings seriously to keep yourself and others safe.
Are canoe trips dangerous?
Activities on the water are generally not without risk. There are various risks that you have to deal with. A distinction is made between subjective and objective risks.
Subjective dangers arise from the actions of the athlete himself/herself and are his/her own responsibility. These include:
- Lack of experience on the water and with the equipment
- Misjudgement of wind, weather and water currents
- Self-exhaustion and exhaustion
- Group dynamics
- Misrecognition of difficulties
- Inadequate swimming ability
Objective dangers, on the other hand, cannot be influenced by the water sportsman. These include:
- Weather (strong wind, cold, rain, thunderstorms)
- Strong rapids
- Water currents
Nevertheless, canoeing is one of the low-risk water activities, especially if the tour takes place on calm waters. The risk of injury is higher in white water, although the risk of capsizing also increases.
Canoeing with the right equipment
Of course, you will need the right equipment for your canoe trip. These are the most important items of equipment:
- Canoe
- (Piercing) paddle and spare paddle
- Life jacket
- Helmet
- Water shovel
- if necessary, canoe trolley
- Waterproof transport bag (approx. 20 litres) or waterproof barrel
- Sturdy and waterproof footwear
- optionally sandals
- weatherproof and hard-wearing clothing in multiple layers
- If necessary, neoprene clothing
- Swimwear
- Strong ropes
- carabiner
- eventually throwing bag
- Seat pad
- Sun and rain protection
- Supplies and drinking water
- First aid kit
- Pocket knife
- Mobile phone
- Lake or river map
- Possibly camping equipment (tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, cooking equipment)
Canoeing with the features of Outdooractive
The features of Outdooractive help you to make your canoe tour as easy as possible and to have everything in view. The map shows all the waters where you can go on your canoe trip. In addition, you can find out about the current weather right here.
Newcomers to the sport in particular like to fall back on tours that have already been done by others. On Outdooractive you can be inspired by the canoe tours of the community and the official partners and find the perfect tour for you.
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As a Pro and Pro+ member not only do you have access to additional features and the best maps at your disposal, but you can also benefit from exclusive offers from our partners, ensuring you are always fully equipped for the outdoors!
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