Kayaking in Alesund: Winter Paddling & Sauna

Paddle through Art Nouveau architecture, then soak in a sauna on the water

Winter kayaking in Alesund combines four hours on stable tandem kayaks through the Brosundet canal with a guide, followed by time in a traditional floating sauna. The Gulf Stream keeps the water from freezing and the clarity lets you spot fish and starfish below. All equipment (drysuit, paddle, life jacket and spray skirt) is provided, and the guide speaks English.

Step-by-step itinerary

Winter kayaking and sauna experience

• Kayak through Brosundet Kanal
• Observe fish and starfish underwater
• Visit traditional floating sauna

The experience

Four hours on the water starts with a guide who knows the local channels and can point out what lives beneath the surface. You'll paddle tandem kayaks through the Brosundet canal, where the city's Art Nouveau buildings line the water. Winter here means the sea is exceptionally clear and the canals never freeze, so the route stays open even when other places lock up. The Gulf Stream keeps the water temperature manageable, and once you're in the drysuit and moving, the paddling keeps your upper body warm while the kayak shelters your lower half.

After kayaking, the trip ends at Svai sauna in Brosundet: a traditional floating sauna with a view. You can rinse off and warm up properly before heading back. The sauna is the cool-down that makes the winter timing work: the contrast between the water and the heat is part of what people come for.

What’s included

• Double kayak.
• all kayaking equipment including drysuit, paddle, life jacket and spray skirt.
• English-speaking guide.
• access to the floating sauna in Brosundet.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 13:30Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Under 13: can't be booked

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a small group experience with a guide who knows the channels and can explain what you're paddling past. The tandem kayaks and drysuit setup make it manageable for beginners, and the sauna finish is what sets this apart from paddling alone.

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the water like when you kayak in Alesund in winter?

The Gulf Stream keeps the Brosundet canal from freezing, and the water is exceptionally clear in winter, letting you see fish and starfish on the bottom. The drysuit and constant paddling keep you warm despite the season.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this?

No. The trip is designed for beginners and people new to kayaking, and you'll be in a stable tandem kayak with a guide who has extensive local knowledge.

What happens after the kayaking part?

You visit Svai sauna in Brosundet, a traditional floating sauna where you can warm up and enjoy the view of the city and water.

What gear do I need to bring myself?

The activity provides the drysuit, paddle, life jacket and spray skirt. You'll want to bring wool underwear for your upper and lower body, a wool or fleece mid-layer, and towel and swimwear for the sauna.

Is there public transport to the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby, so you can reach the kayak launch without a car.