For beginners, we recommend inflatable boats – they are easy to handle, stable, and suitable for 2–6 people. They are steered by 1–2 helmsmen, while others just paddle. The downside is less space for luggage and slower speed when fully occupied. For multi-day trips, we recommend using luggage transport services.

Plastic canoes are suitable for more sporty paddlers and multi-day trips. We are happy to teach you the basics. Capsizing can happen, but these moments often create the best memories.

The weirs on the Vltava River are mostly navigable throughout the season, but it always depends on the current water level. Remember, you are paddling at your own risk. We recommend always stopping before a weir, getting out, and inspecting it from the shore. The difficulty can also be indicated by how other paddlers are navigating it. In the summer months, the biggest risk is often the rocky riverbed below the weir – if you capsize, the current can easily carry you away, and you may get injured.

If you are unsure, it is better to portage the weir or consult someone more experienced.

For a one-day trip, you will have a paddle, life jacket, and waterproof barrel included in the rental. Although barrels are watertight, we recommend wrapping electronics like phones, cameras, or camcorders in an additional plastic bag or special waterproof case. We are not responsible for any damage caused by water. Always double-check that the equipment is properly sealed before setting off.

A life jacket is not meant for sitting but for protection – in case of capsizing, it keeps you afloat and also protects your body and spine from impact. Helmets are not mandatory on the Vltava, but we offer them for rent.

A daily stretch of 15–20 km can be completed in 4 to 5 hours. However, add time for breaks at weirs, refreshment stops, and possible delays due to capsizing (allow at least half an hour extra – pulling the boat out, draining water, reassessing the situation, changing clothes, taking photos, etc.). Larger groups generally need more time.

At the start, we only need an approximate location where you plan to finish your trip. Equipment returns are possible at any functioning campsite until 7 PM (later by arrangement, with a charge of 280 CZK for each additional hour). Notify the dispatcher at 777 296 008 if you change your destination.

Upon departure, you will receive a map with orientation points – information about route lengths, times, weirs, campsites, and refreshments.

We will take care of transporting boats and equipment. If you need to transport yourself – for example, to your car or elsewhere during the trip – we are happy to accommodate you for a fee.

Even without prior experience, you don’t have to worry about taking children with you. There is no minimum age, it mainly depends on whether the child is afraid of water. Some paddlers even take six-month-old babies. Inflatable boats are more suitable for small children – they are stable, and children have room to move around. Older children can try a plastic canoe. Kids will love having their own paddles – they often want to paddle with you. A life jacket is a must, we have various sizes, and they are certified safety equipment. Never take the jacket off, even for a moment. When passing a weir, hold the child by the jacket to prevent them from falling out. If you don’t feel confident, it’s better to walk around the weir.

Want to take your dog on the water? Consider your decision carefully – with canoes, it depends on the size and weight of the dog. If the dog moves quickly from one side to the other, it can cause capsizing. During the peak season, the river and campsites are crowded – keep this in mind. Dogs should always be on a leash!

We recommend swimsuits, a t-shirt, shorts, a hat (cap or sun hat), sunglasses, sunscreen, sturdy water shoes (old sneakers, not sandals or rubber boots), a windbreaker, pants, and a raincoat.

The most commonly paddled section is from Vyšší Brod to Boršov – navigable all year round. At the beginning of the season, it is also possible to paddle the section in the Šumava National Park, but this depends heavily on the water level – more information is available from our staff.

Boat Reservations Once you know the date of your trip, we recommend reserving equipment. In our online reservation system, you can set what you need – after confirmation from us, your boats are secured. We do not require a deposit, and reservations can be modified up to 24 hours before departure.