Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to the questions we most commonly receive. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Please contact us. 

Ottawa- Gatineau Paddleboard (SUP), Kayak, and Bike Rental FAQs

Booking Rentals, Events, and Lessons

How can I rent a SUP (paddle board), kayak or bike?

Book online or call us at Escape Kayak Tours and Rentals. Arrive at F84G+XG Rockcliffe Park, 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.

Can kids rent kayaks or paddleboards?

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.

How do I book a kayak or paddleboard rental?

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.

Do I have to book in advance or can I just show up?

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.

What language do your guides speak?

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

Do you offer private & custom kayak tours?

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

Do you have gift certificates?

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.

Refund, Cancellation and Weather Policy

What if it rains?

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.

What is your cancellation policy?

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.

On The Day Of Your Rental or Tour Reservation

Where can I park?
Please park at the designated parking lots by NCC near the River House
Do kayak/paddleboard rentals include life jackets and paddles?

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)
What time should I show up for my rental, tour, or lesson?

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.

What should I bring to kayaking or paddleboarding?

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!

Will you show me where to go?

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

What types of payment do you accept?

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. 

Do you have a change room?

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

Can I bring my pet?

Yes, there is a $10 fee per pet.  

Can I bring my kids?

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. 

EXCELLENT
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Based on 106 reviews
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Francine Colbourne profile picture
Francine Colbourne
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Great kayak tour with Grant! We made it to Rideau Falls and back with the teens i. tandem kayaks. Grant was fun and very knowledgeable!
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Roslyn Dakin profile picture
Roslyn Dakin
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We enjoyed kayaking along the river here. The rental process was easy & staff were very friendly.
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Aislinn Calvert profile picture
Aislinn Calvert
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Awesome experience! Thanks to Grant for all the help!
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Andrea Cadena profile picture
Andrea Cadena
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Excelente experiencia, sin duda fue actividad increíble. Recomendado 100% !! :) Se podría repetir una y mil veces
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Chloe HC profile picture
Chloe HC
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Had a great experience with Grant! It was a windy day, but we were given tips and tricks to make the most out of our hour kayaking and to stay safe. Small note, there's no bathroom around the rental site, so make sure you go before you get there!
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Amanda Kirton profile picture
Amanda Kirton
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Super fun activity to do in the summer! Cant wait to go back and try a tandem kayak. Close to NCC river house to continue your day of fun when you’re done!
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lyz c: profile picture
lyz c:
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had the best time—Grant really went above and beyond for us during our excursions!! It’s definitely worth every penny!
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Scotti Scott profile picture
Scotti Scott
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Awesome time, great kayaks and great paddle boards. Shout out to Grant to making our time on the river easy and fun.
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