Kayaking in Downtown Ottawa: Rideau Falls and River

Paddle through bays and past Rideau Falls on the Ottawa River

An hour of self-guided kayaking on the Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa, paddling between Quebec and Ontario through bays, small beaches and past Rideau Falls. Kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety kit are provided. An experienced team member gives paddling instruction and stays with the group. Children from age 10 are welcome. The activity suits beginners and intermediate paddlers with at least moderate fitness.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak on Ottawa River and Rideau Falls

• Paddle through bays and small beaches
• See the best views of Rideau Falls
• Paddle on Ottawa River between Quebec and Ontario

The experience

You paddle for an hour on the Ottawa River, moving between the two provinces of Quebec and Ontario. The route takes you through bays and small beaches, then past the Rideau Falls: the main draw of the outing. An experienced team member provides safety instruction and paddling tips before you launch, then stays with the group throughout. The kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety kit are all supplied.

A stop at the Marina breaks up the paddle, giving you a chance to rest and grab a snack. If you book the sunset departure, you paddle back as the light changes over the city and water. The activity is designed for beginners and intermediate paddlers. The team emphasizes that this is self-guided, meaning you control the pace and the kayak, but instruction and supervision are built in.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety kit.
• paddling instruction and safety tips from an experienced team member.
• snack stop at the Marina.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 19 Jun 2027

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Child (10 to 17 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Escape Bicycle Tours and Rentals

Is this one for you?Book the sunset departure if you want to paddle back as the light changes over the water. Choose the daytime slot if you prefer to explore the bays and Rideau Falls in full daylight. Either way, the self-guided format means you set the pace on the water while the team stays with you for instruction and safety.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 17 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What exactly will I paddle past on the Ottawa River?

You paddle through bays and small beaches, then past Rideau Falls, which is the centerpiece of the route. The paddle stays on the Ottawa River between Quebec and Ontario, so you see the city from the water and the views of both provinces.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this?

No. The activity is beginner and intermediate-friendly, and an experienced team member provides safety and paddling instruction before you launch. You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

What's included in the price?

The kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety kit are all included. A snack stop at the Marina is part of the outing. You can purchase additional food or drinks there.

How long does the paddle actually take?

The paddle is one hour on the water. The full experience includes instruction and setup beforehand, so plan for a bit longer at the location.