With the unprecedented, lightning-fast growth of paddlesports worldwide in the past 5-10 years, the demand for paddle craft of all kinds has grown so fast, it has outpaced production capabilities in many areas of the world.
The lockdowns of the Covid-19 pandemic only served to fuel demand for canoes, kayaks, rafts, and stand up paddleboards, since individuals and families who were unable to vacation in other ways, were able to vacation in a relatively isolated fashion with paddling watercraft all over the world’s wilderness paddling routes.
Not only did the popularity of recreational kayaking and canoeing accelerate, but also the popularity of whitewater paddling, rafting, sea and touring kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
So popular was the idea of paddling for people in all classes of economic and social status, that a full 53% of sea and lake touring kayakers in 2018 were participating for the very first time! Other paddlesports had similar statistics.
Here are some specific outfitters we’ve researched in each state and Canadian Province (at least 1 is probably near you!). Zoom in to your region and you’ll find a reputable kayak, canoe and/or SUP rental company!
Table of Contents
How To Use This Map
I’m pretty sure you can figure it out, but just for kicks, here’s what you do: using your mouse or fingers, zoom into the area of interest for you on the map (includes all of Canada and the USA). Then, click any one of the markers which indicate a reputable canoe, kayak or paddleboard rental company. Their review rating and contact information will come up on the left side of the map.
Why Should I Rent a Canoe or Kayak?
Renting a canoe or kayak is the absolute best way to accomplish a whole lot of things that you would not be able to accomplish if you owned your own canoe/kayak. Here’s a partial list to give you an idea:
- You won’t need to shell out $1,000 – $4,000 on a new canoe or kayak all at once!
- You won’t need to worry about storage space in your garage, shed or backyard
- You won’t have to worry about depreciation of your canoe if you have to store it outdoors where it will see accelerated aging.
- You can try several different styles or models of canoe to determine which you like best.
- You won’t need to travel long distances with it on your vehicle (usually) or perhaps you won’t have to attach it to your vehicle at all if the rental company is right on the lake.
- You won’t lose thousands of dollars if you damage your rental canoe since insurance is an option.
Should I Buy a Canoe Instead of Renting?
Purchasing a paddle sport craft is one of the best investments you can make for a family, assuming you’ll be using the canoe or kayak more than a few times a year.
In fact, even if you don’t use it more than a few times a year, it’s likely still a good investment for the following reasons:
- It’s very convenient to have the canoe at home and ready to mount on your car, instead of driving to an outfitter and hoping they have what you want.
- Your canoe will be exactly what you want (I’m guessing) and it will often be in much better shape (though not necessarily) than an abused, used rental.
- By owning a canoe or kayak, you’ll not only experience a near perfect craft with ultimate convenience, but when you go to sell it, you’ll be able to recouperate much of your initial investment (and in some cases even more if you overhaul a collector’s classic or get a very good deal on your initial purchase).
What Are Typical Rental Rates I Can Expect to Pay?
As you can imagine, rates will vary (sometimes significantly) depending on your country, state, or even the area of your state. As a ballpark estimate, it looks like you can expect to pay around $40 – $60/day (or as little as 4 hours) depending on the size and quality of your canoe or kayak. Here is a very small sampling of ballpark rates you can expect to pay.
MUSKOKA LAKES, ONTARIO, CANADA
We found a popular outfitter in Central Ontario, Canada, and here are some rates in Canadian dollars.
BOUNDARY WATERS, ELY, MINNESOTA, USA
Outfitters are plentiful in this hotbed of wilderness canoeing, and here are some basic rates in USD.
FORT MYERS BEACH, FLORIDA, USA
Florida has no shortage of canoe and kayak outfitters, and here’s a supplier in Fort Myers Beach, located about halfway between Miami and Tampa on Florida’s West Coast. It’s located just beside several state parks and reserves.
Best Places to Find Canoe Rentals in Your State
Click on your state to find kayak and canoe rentals near you. I’ve created a clickable map that just makes your Google searches easier and all in one place!
Key Takeaways
There are huge advantages to both buying and renting a canoe or kayak. I’m sure once you research the pros and cons, one of those options will appeal to you much more than the other!
Rental prices vary quite a bit from state to state, but you can easily research the locations of outfitters and prices with just 1 or 2 clicks from our clickable map!
Please consider checking out our YouTube channel for more DIY projects, product reviews, canoe trip documentaries, and a whole lot of instruction and information for beginner to intermediate canoeists!
Paddle on my friends!
