To ensure a canoe or kayak trip remains an enjoyable experience for everyone, it's essential to follow a few safety rules before setting off.
These safety tips apply whether you're paddling independently or renting a canoe from a professional.
So? Ready to embark on your next journey?
1- Canoeing is not for children under 6 years old!
Canoeing and kayaking are prohibited on the Dordogne River for children under 6 years old. This national rule applies to all rivers, with some exceptions for outings led by a state-certified instructor or on certain lakes and ponds.
Check with your local canoe and kayak rental provider.
To ensure you choose a provider offering quality services and respecting the law, opt for a canoe base that is a member of the FNPLCK (National Professional Federation of Canoe and Kayak Rental Companies) network.
2-Even with a life jacket, you still need to know how to swim
Going on a canoe trip or multi-day hike requires being able to swim 25 meters unaided (equivalent to a standard swimming certificate). This rule applies to all participants regardless of age, physical condition, or the duration of the trip.
This essential safety rule is also a national regulation. Never go canoeing or kayaking if you can't swim; instead, find a beach for a picnic or head to the finish line. 😉
3- For your safety while canoeing, you need a life jacket
Wearing the provided buoyancy aid is strictly mandatory. This applies even if you know how to swim, regardless of your age or physical condition.
We understand that the buoyancy aid may prevent you from achieving a perfect tan, but remember that it can save your life in many situations, such as hypothermia (thermal shock from immersion in water).
The water police conduct checks on the Dordogne River. Failure to wear your buoyancy aid may result in a fine.
4- Know your surroundings before you leave
Before heading out canoeing or kayaking, check the navigation conditions, such as the weather and water levels . Also, be sure to consult the forecast. On the Dordogne River, navigation is prohibited above a flow rate of 80 m³/s downstream from Argentat-sur-Dordogne, or 100 m³/s for experienced paddlers, and above a flow rate of 150 m³/s at the Souillac gauge. To check the Dordogne River's water levels, use the EDF NIV'EAU app or RiverApp . Also, check for any current prefectural decrees . On the Dordogne , navigation is subject to specific hours : from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the Lot department and from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM in the Corrèze department.
5- Choosing your equipment
Depending on the river you plan to paddle, different equipment may be required. Check the river's difficulty rating. Inflatable canoes and kayaks, for example, are not suitable for some rivers with rocky rapids.
Always use a personal flotation device (PFD) that meets European CE standards.
