Kayaking with a group
Guided kayak and canoe tours for team wellbeing days
From the water, even familiar lake scenery looks new. You'll see life along the shores and islands, and you might spot birds, fish or other lake residents along the way. The pace is calm: there's no rush on the lake, and the group enjoys the scenery together.
At the start, a trained paddling guide goes through paddling technique and safety, and helps everyone choose a suitable boat. The guide stays with the group throughout the tour, so no previous experience is needed. A guided tour is a great introduction to paddling, but it suits more experienced paddlers too.
Depending on group size, the tour takes 2–2.5 hours, of which about 1.5–2 hours is spent paddling. Larger groups need a little more time for preparations at the start.
Where do we paddle?
We organise guided paddling tours on Lake Saimaa, in Kouvola and in Repovesi National Park. Here are typical starting points and routes:
- Lappeenranta: we start from the harbour and head, depending on the wind, either to Naurissaari island or towards Karhusaari.
- Kouvola: we usually paddle on Käyrälampi next to Tykkimäki Resort.
- Savitaipale: we start, for example, from Olkkola beach or Lepänkanto.
- Repovesi National Park: paddling in the national park has its own dedicated tour.
There are many other starting points too, and we're happy to plan the tour around your group's wishes.
Equipment and guides
Our fleet includes around 50–60 boats: double kayaks, single kayaks and open canoes, so everyone can find the right fit:
- Open canoe: stable and roomy, and easy to paddle together. A great choice for first-timers.
- Double kayak: suits pairs who want to share the paddling.
- Single kayak: for those who want to paddle at their own pace.
Everyone gets a life jacket, and kayaks come with a spray deck. Our tours are led by trained paddling guides who know the waters and keep an eye on the weather. If the weather is bad, the tour is rescheduled or cancelled. Safety always comes first.
Paddling tour prices and practical info
- Price: €65 per person (incl. 13.5% VAT)
- Included: kayaks and canoes, life jackets, spray decks and a trained paddling guide throughout the tour
- Group size: 6–48 paddlers
- Duration: 2 hours for small groups, 2.5 hours for large groups. About 1.5–2 hours of paddling.
- Season: May–October
- Locations: Lappeenranta, Kouvola (Tykkimäki), Savitaipale, Repovesi National Park and nearby areas
- Language: guidance in Finnish or English
- Payment: cash, card or invoice. Advance invoice for private customers.
- Bring: clothes for the weather, sunglasses and light shoes
Want to paddle on your own?
We also rent kayaks and canoes for independent paddling from two rental points:
- Lappeenranta: Satamatie 19, between the brick building and Lake Saimaa. More info: Lappeenranta rental point.
- Kouvola: Tykkimäki Resort, Käyrälammentie 22. More info: Tykkimäki Resort rental point.
Paddling tour FAQ
How much does a guided paddling tour cost?
A paddling tour costs €65 per person (incl. VAT). The price includes the boats, life jackets, spray decks and a trained paddling guide. The group size is 6–48 paddlers.
Do I need previous paddling experience?
No. The guide teaches paddling technique and safety at the start of the tour and supports the group throughout.
Which is better, a kayak or a canoe?
For first-timers we often recommend an open canoe, as it's stable and easy to paddle together. A double kayak suits pairs, and a single kayak those who want to paddle at their own pace. The guide will help you choose.
Where are the paddling tours held?
In Lappeenranta we start from the harbour, in Kouvola we paddle on Käyrälampi at Tykkimäki, and in Savitaipale we start, for example, from Olkkola beach or Lepänkanto. We also organise tours in Repovesi National Park.
How long does a paddling tour take?
About 2 hours for small groups and about 2.5 hours for large groups, as preparations take longer. The actual paddling time is about 1.5–2 hours.
Can I rent a kayak or canoe for independent paddling?
Yes. We rent kayaks and canoes at Lappeenranta harbour (Satamatie 19) and at Tykkimäki Resort in Kouvola (Käyrälammentie 22).
