Frequently Asked Questions

Book online or call us at Escape Kayak Tours and Rentals. arrive at 501 Sir-George-Étienne-Cartier Pkwy, Ottawa, located along the Ottawa River, minutes from downtown Ottawa. Bring a valid photo ID and credit card. On arrival, sign a waiver, and we’ll fit you with your equipment, paddle, life jacket (PFD), and safety kit. No prior experience is needed; our team provides a full safety briefing and orientation before you launch.

All participants must be 10 years of age or older. Participants aged 10 to 17 must be accompanied on the water by a responsible adult guardian at all times. Children aged 7 to 9 may participate only in tandem kayaks, paddling with an adult. All participants, including minors, must have a signed waiver; a parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of anyone under 18.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard  3 easy steps:

1. Book online and arrive on site
2. Sign waiver for every participant
3. Get equipment and have fun

Note: We highly recommend booking in advance to save your spot as we do sell on popular days. Walk-in is possible upon inventory availability.

We highly recommend booking in advance to save your spot as we do sell out on our popular lessons, and events. Walk-in is possible upon inventory availability.

Yes. Please call or email us to discuss this.

We offer our regular tours in English. We can offer our tours in French too subject to guides availability. Please contact us to inquire.

Yes, very often! Call or email and let us know what you have in mind and we’ll make it happen for you!

Yes. By purchasing an Escape gift certificate, you’re giving the gift of health, wellness, and a great natural adventure! Here are some occasions to present an Escape Bicycle Tour gift certificate:

• Birthday
• Wedding
• Graduation
• Welcome to Ottawa
• New home
• Employee incentive or thank you

Please call or email to purchase a gift certificate.

In the event of heavy rain, thunderstorms, or other hazardous weather conditions we will try to reach you by the contact information you provided at the time of booking. Please make sure that we have an accurate way to contact you.

Should the reservation be cancelled by Escape Tours and Rental due to unsafe weather conditions, you will be fully refunded – or – you can keep your credit and rebook for a time of your choosing! Please inquire for private and group bookings and specific tour or event cancellation policies.

Plans change – we get it! You can change your rental (date, equipment, etc.) or you can request a refund if you give us 24 hours notice.

There will be no refunds for any cancellations or rescheduling requests within 24 hours prior to the booking/activity start date and time. If the reservation must be cancelled By Escape Tours and Rental due to the bad weather, we fully refund our clients. Please inquire for private and group bookings or specific tour or event cancellation policies.

Well maintained equipment:

1. Equipment of your choice (SUP, Kayak, Canoe, Bike)
2. Paddle or helmet and lock for bike
3. Life Jacket (PFD) 
4. Safety Kit (Throw Rope, Whistle, Light, Bailer)

We recommend arriving 15-20 minutes in advance to do the equipment fitting and sign the required document(s). For tours or lessons, arriving early helps with the prep and getting to know your guide/instructor and other participants. We’ll start sharp on time. There will be no refund for late arrival.

Come prepared to enjoy the water – we do not have change rooms on site. You will also need your ID and payment method, and you will want some sun protection. We will supply the rest!

We love the Ottawa River and the Outaouais region we are always happy to give you recommendations for where to explore!

We require a valid and active credit card for the initial reservation and deposit. The remaining balance can be paid by credit, debit, or cash.

Please note tapping is not accepted and a valid credit card number, expiry date and CVC is required for security and protection against potential damages. 

Unfortunately we do not have an onsite change room. Please plan on arriving dressed to hit the water!

Yes, there is a $10 fee per pet.  

All participants must be 7 years of age or older to participate in water activities. We only allow the use of tandem kayaks with an adult for younger kids between 7 to 11 years old. 

You can see all our rental rates here. 

Please contact us to inquire!