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With plenty of rivers and surrounded by coastline, Southampton, located within Hampshire on the south coast of the UK is an ideal place to hire a kayak and start exploring. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you are a complete novice or an absolute expert. Kayak hire is just one of the main water activities you can do in and around Southampton to make the most of this stunning maritime city.
When hiring a kayak, you know you are in safe hands. The equipment will be well maintained, you’ll be given a safety briefing and buoyancy aid as well as offering advice on the best route to travel based on your ability, experience, weather and tidal conditions.
Southampton Water and rivers are tidal so it is important to be aware of this before your hire. Find out more information here from Paddling.com about kayaking and tides before you go, or ask your hire operator.
Some operators offer wetsuit hire and dry bag hire which is something you may want to make the most of. On most occasions, under 16’s will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a towel and a change of clothes and off you go! Remember to arrive early to have enough time to go through everything first before you hit the water.
wesup, Hamble River
There is no better way to enjoy the south coast than with wesup. Although stand up paddleboard is abbreviated in their name, they do hire out single and double kayaks as well.
Based at Mercury Yacht Harbour, wesup is perfectly located to explore the Hamble River with its number of marinas dotted up and down the riverbanks. Enjoy a self-guided tour with beautiful secluded creeks and boats on their moorings in this sheltered part of Southampton.
Kayak hire is available for 1, 2 or 3 hours, or get in touch with them to ask about longer hire periods.
Float Hampshire
Explore the natural beauty of the Hamble River with Float Hampshire. Based at Bursledon, kayak through the many twists and turns of the river, whilst taking in the views of marina life.
Their inflatable kayaks can accommodate 1, 2 or 3 persons. Hire periods can be by the hour or get in touch with them about longer hires including overnight, weekends or week long hires.
The Paddle Centre
Another best kayak hire in Southampton is from the popular Paddle Centre. Not only do they have a range of different kayaks to hire, but they also offer Kayak Taster Lessons and even British Canoeing courses.
Based at the beautiful Swanwick Marina, The Paddle Centre is based on land before taking your kayak down to the water’s edge. From here you can explore the many nearby marinas including Deacons Marina, Universal Marina and Mercury Yacht Harbour. The views are simply gorgeous.
The Paddle Centre is unique in that it also offers a Paddle Centre membership. This allows you to hire a kayak or SUP as many times as you like for a set monthly fee. If you are a local regular paddler, this is ideal and can save you money and hassle – not just on hire costs, but also the effort and resources to own your own equipment. Join their club and you’ll receive a free introductory lesson, exclusive member events, a private Facebook community, guest passes and money off refreshments.
Fairthorne Manor
Head further north east of Southampton, towards Botley and you’ll kind kayak hire at Fairthorne Manor. Tucked away in the upper reaches of the Hamble River, you can hire a number of different crafts including single or double kayaks. Times will be dependent on the tide due to it being that much further inland.
Kayak Hire around Southampton
Heading a bit further out of Southampton? Lymington Kayaks offer great value for money hires to explore the picturesque Lymington River.
Venture further to the New Forest and you’ll find kayak hire from New Forest Activities. Enjoy the tranquillity of the Beaulieu River – a great experience for all the family. Armed with a map and a quick safety briefing, these self-guided sessions will have you on your very own adventure in no time!
Check out this great post about kayaking in the New Forest for more information.
Did you know that Decathlon now offers inflatable kayak hire in Southampton? Hire from one day up to 2 weeks with a range of sizes and safety equipment also available.
Looking to make your own adventure? Check out the Go paddling app to find great kayaking spots.
Do you have a favourite kayak hire in Southampton? A favourite spot to go paddling? We’d love to know in the comments below.
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