Choose from our 1 or 2 person sit-on-top kayaks. Great for beginners, using a double-ended paddle is easy to get to grips with and will keep you going in a straight line. All of our kayaks feature comfortable backrests and generous storage areas, perfect for longer trips. Kayak through Exeter and explore this beautiful slice of Devon!
Top Quality UK Made Kayaks
All of our kayaks are stable and have supportive backrests
We are based right on the historic Exeter shipping canal, offering calm waters and beautiful scenery just a short paddle from the shop. How far you can get depends on a lot of factors, so please use these timings as a guide.
2 Hour Hire - To The Pub!
Our most popular kayak hire duration, head straight down the canal to The Double Locks Pub. Usually taking 45 minutes each way, you will have enough time to stop for a drink. You will not need to remove the boats from the water, easy pontoons at either end make this a great option for less able paddlers and younger families.
Our 3 hour hire allows time to stop for lunch at The Double Locks. Alternatively, use the pontoons to lift your boats out, and a quick portage to the other side of the lock will get you back on the water, take note of the time and turn around when you hit the halfway mark!
Full Day Hire - Explore the whole Canal!
For the intrepid adventurers, get going early and you will be able to head all the way down to The Turf Hotel. After carrying your boats around The Double Locks, it is a beautiful and clear stretch all the way to the end of the canal. You will see plenty of wildlife as you pass the Devon Wildlife Trust and Exminster Marshes RSPB Nature reserves, keep an eye out for the distinctive blue flash of the Kingfisher!
Standard vs Premium Kayak Hire
We have added a premium option to our single kayak hire, great for those wanting to get the most out of their time on the water. Upgrade to a lightweight kayak to make portaging at Double Locks easier, and cut through the water with ease. Increase your comfort with a sized buoyancy aid and carbon paddle .
New for 2025!
Standard Kayak Hire
Premium Kayak Hire
UK Made Kayak
Islander Calypso with Backrest
Lightweight Tootega Kinetic 100 with Backrest and skeg
We offer a range of sit-on-top kayaks, including single and double kayaks. Our 1 person Standard Kayak Hire uses the Islander Calypso, while the Premium uses the lightweight Tootega Kinetic 100. We use the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 130 for our 2 person kayak hire.
What is included in the kayak hire?
Your kayak hire includes the kayak, paddle, buoyancy aid (life vest), and a small dry bag for personal items.
Do I need any prior experience to hire a kayak?
No prior experience is necessary for hiring our sit-on-top kayaks. They are very stable and easy to use. We will help you get in, give a quick safety briefing and some instruction to get you on your way.
How do I book a kayak?
The easiest way is to book online through our website. You can also call us at 01392 219600 or visit us in person.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak season, to guarantee availability. Premium hire must be booked at least 1 day in advance.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24hrs notice if you need to cancel for any reason. Less than 24hrs notice and we will not be able to give you a refund. If for any reason AS Watersports have to cancel, we will refund hire charges but are not liable for any other expense incurred.
17 and under must be accompanied by an adult (18+)
1 adult to a maximum of 2 children
For security reasons we require some form of ID: we accept Credit and debit cards, valid passports, Armed forces ID cards, a valid Full UK driving license and other international ID cards
Cancellation: We require 24hrs notice if you need to cancel for any reason. Less than 24hrs notice and we will not be able to give you a refund. If for any reason AS Watersports have to cancel, we will refund hire charges but are not liable for any other expense incurred.