Paddling through Gdansk’s waterways offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience this historic Polish port city. The peaceful Motlawa River and surrounding channels provide excellent kayaking opportunities for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
The best tours combine sightseeing with gentle adventure – I especially love the sunset paddles past medieval crane houses and restored granaries. Winter tours, while chilly, deliver a uniquely peaceful perspective of the old town without summer crowds.
Most guided excursions include quality equipment and knowledgeable English-speaking guides who share local history while ensuring safety. The 2-3 hour tours maintain a relaxed pace suitable for most fitness levels.
Let’s look at the top kayak and canoe tours that showcase the best of Gdansk’s waterways.
Key Points
- The Guided Sightseeing Kayak Tour offers a highly-rated 2.5-hour experience, with double kayaks, a guide, and snacks at a cost of $37.61 per person.
- The Gdańsk: Islands and Canals Private Kayak Tour provides a 3-hour guided exploration of the Motława River, Granary Island, and the iconic Crane.
- The Gdansk: Winter Kayaking Tour allows visitors to experience Gdansk’s waterways in winter, with guided tours in double kayaks and drysuits for $45.18 per person.
- The Gdansk: Guided Kayak Tour offers a 2.5-hour paddle through the Motlawa Canal, with a live English-speaking guide and visits to Granary Island and Olowianka Island.
- The Sunset Kayak Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Gdansk’s waterways as the sun sets, with a professional guide and access to exclusive areas.
Guided Sightseeing Kayak Tour at Gdansk
Frequently, travelers to Gdansk embark on a guided sightseeing kayak tour to explore the city’s picturesque waterways.
This 2.5-hour activity boasts a 5.0 rating from 77 reviewers, with 99% of travelers recommending the experience. At $37.61 per person, the tour includes double kayaks, personal flotation devices, an informative guide, and even snacks.
The meeting point is a big white dome tent behind a marina, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but near public transportation.
Participants must have moderate fitness, a weight under 110kg, and basic English skills. The small group size of 20 travelers ensures an engaging and safe adventure on Gdansk’s waterways.
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Gdańsk: Islands and Canals Private Kayak Tour
Adventurous travelers seeking a unique perspective of Gdańsk’s picturesque waterways can embark on the Gdańsk: Islands and Canals Private Kayak Tour.
This 3-hour excursion offers a beginner-friendly experience, with double or single kayaks accommodating up to 12 people. Guests will enjoy a guided tour along the Motława River, visiting sights like Granary Island, Olowianka Island, the historic Soldek ship, and the iconic Crane.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as life jackets and spray skirts, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
With its intimate setting and unique water-based perspective, this kayak tour provides an exceptional way to explore Gdańsk’s rich history and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Gdańsk: Islands and Canals Private Kayak Tour Review
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Gdansk: Winter Kayaking Tour
Gdansk’s picturesque waterways transform into a winter wonderland, offering travelers a unique opportunity to explore the city from a different perspective.
The Gdansk Winter Kayaking Tour provides a thrilling adventure, with 43 positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence. For $45.18 per person, participants can enjoy a guided tour in double kayaks, equipped with spray skirts, PFDs, and drysuits.
The tour includes hot chocolate, snacks, and hotel pickup/drop-off if selected. However, it’s essential to have a moderate fitness level and the ability to swim, as the experience isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions or pregnant travelers.
The meeting point is easily identified, and basic English understanding is required.
Read our full review: Gdansk: Winter Kayaking Tour Review
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Gdansk: Guided Kayak Tour
For those seeking a more immersive exploration of Gdansk’s picturesque waterways, the Guided Kayak Tour offers a captivating experience. Priced from $36.61 per person, the 2.5-hour tour includes a live English-speaking guide and the opportunity to paddle through the Motlawa Canal, offering a unique perspective of iconic sights.
Participants will also visit Granary Island and Olowianka Island, gaining insights into the city’s history. The tour is suitable for beginners, with all necessary equipment provided, including tandem kayaks, paddles, and life jackets.
While children 12+ are welcome, certain restrictions apply, and all participants must be able to communicate in English and swim. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 85 reviews, this guided kayak adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Gdansk’s waterways.
Read our full review: Gdansk: Guided Kayak Tour Review
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Sunset Kayak Tour
As the sun dips below the horizon, Gdansk’s maritime history comes alive on the Sunset Kayak Tour. Rated 5 stars with a Badge of Excellence, this tour allows you to explore the city’s waterways and landmarks from a unique perspective.
Double kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices are provided, along with snacks and a professional guide. The tour departs from a meeting point near the marina, where you’ll access waterways not available to ferries.
With moderate fitness required, this tour is suitable for most, though not recommended for those with back problems. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the price starts at $42.66 per person.
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Islands of Gdansk Private Kayak Tour
The Islands of Gdansk Private Kayak Tour departs from a distinctive meeting point – a big white dome tent behind a marina, near red shipping containers with a yellow kayak on top.
This private tour allows only your group to participate, making it an intimate and personalized experience. The tour includes double kayaks and paddles, personal flotation devices, a knowledgeable guide, spray skirts, a waterproof bag, and snacks.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation. Participants should have a moderate fitness level, weigh under 110 kg, and be able to swim.
With a 5.0 rating and no negative reviews, this kayak tour is a great way to explore the islands of Gdansk.
Read our full review: Islands of Gdansk Private Kayak Tour Review
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Gdansk: Sunset Kayak Tour
Gdansk’s Sunset Kayak Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s stunning waterways as the sun dips below the horizon. Priced at $43.98 per person, the 2.5-hour tour provides a captivating experience, including a safety briefing and 1.5 hours of guided kayaking.
Participants will paddle past iconic sites like the Granary Island, Olowianka Island, and the Gdansk Shipyard, while admiring the vibrant sunset. The tour includes all necessary equipment, such as kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a 4.9/5 rating from 182 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience Gdansk from a unique perspective.
Read our full review: Gdansk: Sunset Kayak Tour Review
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Sum Up
Gdansk offers a variety of engaging kayak and canoe tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s waterways and scenic islands. From guided sightseeing tours to sunset excursions, there’s an option to suit every interest. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, these tours provide an immersive and unique way to experience the beauty of Gdansk’s natural surroundings.
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