From 2 hours | Age 12+
Kayak Hire (Bristol Harbour)
★★★★★
4.9 from 173 reviews
Limited opportunity to join our kayak hire trial this Summer.
What is Kayak Hire (Bristol Harbour)?
What is Kayak Hire?
Kayak Hire is operated by SUP Bristol, a Mendip Adventure organisation. Following agreement with Bristol City Council, this is taking place as a limited trial in August 2026. Hire a sit on top kayak for 2 hours and explore Bristol's historic Floating Harbour by yourself.Who can book Kayak Hire?
Kayak Hire is for those aged 12+. Paddlers aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied on the water by an adult aged 18+ at a ratio of 1:1.Due to safety, a minimum of two people must be included in each booking.
How does Kayak Hire work?
Meet the SUP Bristol team at Baltic Wharf, Bristol BS1 6XG. where you will be provided and fitted with a buoyancy aid and given your kayak and paddle. We will provide a quick safety briefing covering the permitted paddling area, other harbour users and what to do in an emergency.Kayak Hire does not include tuition, coaching or an instructor on the water.
Your hire includes:
- A single or double sit-on-top kayak, paddles and buoyancy aids
- A waterproof phone pouch for your group
- Access to changing facilities, toilets and hot showers
What should I bring for Kayak Hire?
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing you do not mind getting wet
- Closed-toe footwear such as old trainers or water shoes
- A towel and full change of clothes
- A fully charged mobile phone
- One ID deposit required per booking (driving license or passport)
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses on sunny days
- A waterproof jacket if rain is forecast
Important Information!
- Your two hour booking includes time for fitting equipment, completing the safety briefing, launching and returning your kayak.
- Please return your kayak at the agreed time. Late return fees may apply.
- Buoyancy aids must be worn throughout the hire.
- SUP Bristol may amend or cancel kayak hire if the weather or harbour conditions are unsuitable.
- You must follow the permitted route and all instructions given during the safety briefing.
- You must not take part while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- SUP Bristol staff reserve the right to refuse or cancel hire if safety requirements are not met.
A minimum of 2 people must be included in each booking. All under 18 participants must be accompanied by an adult (age 18+) at a ratio of 1:1. A form of ID will be required as a deposit.
Important Information:
Location
Cottage Inn Landing, Bristol BS1 6XGGet directions →
We meet at Cottage Inn Landing, Bristol BS1 6XG, and our staff will greet you on the quayside. Arrive ten minutes before your session starts.
Parking is free but limited at the Cottage Inn and Harbour Master car parks. The ss Great Britain car park is pay-and-display, five to ten minutes’ walk. Full joining instructions →
Showers & Changing Rooms
Changing rooms and hot showers are available on request, and equipment can be stored securely during your session.
Weather
We aim to go out in all weathers, and only cancel for strong wind or thunderstorms. You will hear from us by email and text with 24 hours' notice, and you choose between a full refund and moving to another date.
Water quality
The Floating Harbour is impounded, not a flowing river. We test weekly through the season and publish every result. In 2026 every sample has come back within the Environment Agency's "excellent" threshold. Read the full detail →
Cancellation
If you need to cancel: sessions are non-refundable, but can be cancelled for a credit voucher up to 4 days before.
Accessibility
The slipway has a gradual entry and we run adaptive sessions with specialist seating and transfer equipment. Changing rooms are step-free. Call 01934 834877 before booking and we'll talk through exactly what you need.