Paddleboarding, kayaking and river cruises at Channel Kayaks
Channel Kayaks runs paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing on the River Avon from The Boathouse on Newbridge Road, on the western edge of Bath. It is a BSUPA-recognised paddleboarding school, so you can take a lesson with a qualified instructor, hire a board or kayak, or share a six-seat Katakanu with friends. The team also runs private river boat cruises towards Kelston and Saltford. It is an easy trip from Bath, Keynsham and Bristol, and suits families, groups and celebrations.
Bath, Somerset
Ideal for groups
Gift vouchers available
Private river cruises on Blue Iris
Under the CK Marine name, Channel Kayaks runs private cruises on the river cruiser Blue Iris, with a crew to take care of everything. Choose a 1-hour cruise, a 2-hour cruise through Kelston lock, or a 4-hour trip past Kelston Park and the Shallows at Saltford, navigating the Victorian locks along the way. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Blue Iris also offers wedding day and wedding reception cruises for up to six passengers.
FAQs
Where is Channel Kayaks?
Channel Kayaks is based at The Boathouse, Newbridge Road, Bath BA1 3NB, on the River Avon at the western edge of the city. It is about 2 miles from Bath city centre and about 4 miles from Keynsham.
Where can I go paddleboarding in Bath?
Channel Kayaks runs paddleboard lessons, guided tours and board hire on the River Avon from The Boathouse on Newbridge Road, about 2 miles from the city centre. As a BSUPA-recognised paddleboarding school, its sessions are led by qualified instructors. See the paddleboarding sessions here >
Where can I go paddleboarding near Bristol?
Channel Kayaks in Bath is about 9 miles from Bristol city centre, with paddleboarding, kayaking and Katakanu trips on a calm, rural stretch of the River Avon. Book a session with Channel Kayaks >
Where can I go kayaking near Keynsham or Saltford?
Channel Kayaks is about 4 miles upriver from Keynsham and a couple of miles from Saltford. You can hire a single or tandem sit-on-top kayak, or a six-seat Katakanu, from The Boathouse in Bath. Browse kayak hire here >
Do I need experience to paddleboard or kayak with Channel Kayaks?
Not for lessons or guided trips. Beginner paddleboard lessons are designed for newcomers and anyone wanting a refresher, in groups of no more than six per instructor, and you don't need to be a confident swimmer. For kayak and Katakanu hire, previous experience is recommended but not essential. For self-guided paddleboard hire, at least one person in the group must have paddled before.
What is included in a session?
Buoyancy aids and paddles are provided for every session, and buoyancy aids must be worn on the water at all times. A member of the team gives a safety briefing before you set off. Bookings also come with a 15% discount on food and drink at The Boathouse pub on the day of your activity.
Are there age limits?
Paddleboard lessons are open to ages 10 and over, and the minimum age for paddleboard hire is 12. Guided paddleboard tours are recommended for ages 14 and over because of the distance covered. Children must be accompanied by an adult on kayak and paddleboard hire, and children aged 5 and under join the guided Katakanu trips for free.
What should I bring?
Bring a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, which you'll need on the water for safety. It also helps to have:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing (no jeans, hoodies or heavy clothing)
- Old trainers or water shoes
- A change of clothes and a towel
- Suncream and a water bottle on warm days
Can I take a private boat trip on the River Avon in Bath?
Yes. Channel Kayaks runs private, crewed cruises on its river cruiser Blue Iris from The Boathouse, from 1 to 4 hours, through the Victorian locks towards Kelston and Saltford. You can bring your own food and drinks. Book a private river cruise >
Can I launch my own paddleboard or kayak in Bath?
Yes. You can book a self-launch session to put your own paddleboard, kayak or canoe in from the slipway at The Boathouse, from 10am. You'll need a buoyancy aid for each person and a working knowledge of your craft. Book a self-launch session >
Is there parking at The Boathouse?
If you park in The Boathouse pub car park, enter your vehicle registration inside the pub when you arrive.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking online in advance is the easiest way to secure your place, especially at weekends and in school holidays. Check availability and book with Channel Kayaks >