Sevilla Kayak Rental Review: Paddle the Guadalquivir
So, you’re thinking about seeing Seville from a different angle, eh? Maybe ditching the usual walking tours for something that gives you a little arm workout, and a bunch of interesting angles of all of it, and actually that might be a great way to view the cityscape. Taking a kayak out on the Guadalquivir River might be just what you need! There are actually a few different kayak rental options in Seville, and I actually decided to try one during my trip. This is a breakdown of what to maybe expect and some thoughts to mull over before you make a choice.
Getting Started: Finding Your Kayak Rental
First thing’s first, you actually have to find a spot to grab your kayak. A simple online search is going to give you a pretty good list of companies that are right on the river and ready to set you up, in that way its rather easy to just scope things out. I actually checked out a few reviews before settling on “Sevilla Kayak,” which, admittedly, is maybe not the most creative name ever, very straight to the point. Their location was pretty convenient for me and a bit more appealing price than some other spots I checked out.
Very, very similar to booking anything else, you should swing by their website, or maybe even give them a ring to check availability and also make a reservation. Doing that is definitely going to save you time when you get there. I kind of thought that the process was relatively quick, and a really friendly person walked me through what I needed to know about my adventure on the river.
On the Water: What to Expect Paddling the Guadalquivir
Once you get all your stuff squared away, and very similar to life, its off to the river! The Guadalquivir River is mostly pretty calm, yet it also has the occasional boat cruising by to sort of liven things up a bit. I thought paddling along the river banks and past landmarks such as the Torre del Oro was basically incredible, honestly. You can, like your own personal snail, go at the speed you want, and sort of have total freedom to stop and appreciate the sites, it was actually a pretty cool thing.
The Torre del Oro is beautiful, the various bridges show unique design and it can make for cool pics, plus there are just these pockets of greenery along the way that very few other tourists see. Just remember, a bit like driving, to also stay aware of the river traffic, it seems obvious. The river is an active waterway, too, and you might actually share space with tour boats and other vessels. Pay close attention to where they’re going, it is only common sense.
What to Bring and Wear: Preparing for Your Kayak Adventure
Speaking from, a bit, past experiences: it’s quite helpful to prepare for being out on the water. So, slap on sunscreen because the Seville sun, oh my gosh, really does not mess around! Very good to also grab a hat and maybe sunglasses, just so you are blocking out the rays, too it’s almost a necessity.
For clothing, go with light, comfy gear that can get wet – because it might just happen. Quick-drying fabrics, like your sports clothes, could be the answer. As for your feet, water shoes or sandals that have straps will work just great. And it goes without saying to bring water, and it has to be lots of it! Being in the sun and also paddling makes you so, very thirsty.
Safety First: Tips for a Smooth Kayaking Trip
This can be overlooked a lot. Safety always needs to be in the front of your mind out on the water, in any respect! A bit like planes, it might be something you gloss over, listen closely to the instructions provided by the rental company. They usually provide, naturally, super useful advice on where to go and what to do. And of course, wearing the life jacket they give you isn’t, actually, an optional thing, alright?
Stay aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from bigger boats is basically the idea. If you are brand new to kayaking, consider picking a shorter route and stay fairly close to the shore, too it’s almost the kiddy pool equivalent. And you, like your grade school teacher, should also keep your phone in a waterproof case, not only for the photos but in case you actually need help. After you leave the dock, just take the moment to remember and familiarize yourself with all of the emergency signals too.
The Verdict: Is Sevilla Kayak Rental Worth It?
In short: pretty much so! My kayak trip was fun, it gave me unique views, and just getting in a bit of light exercise was an A+. Sevilla Kayak offered, arguably, competitive pricing, super friendly service, and pretty straightforward access to the river. It is one of those great, unusual experiences if you have a little time.
With that being said, very similar to choosing dessert, you might actually think of what your hopes are before you book. If you are after historical information, consider a guided tour instead. I thought the pleasure I got came just from having control and my own timeframe. Also, remember that it requires physical work, it might just be chill if you are cool with that.
Alright, here’s a short recap that is easy to scan:
- Location: A bunch of companies are easy to locate with a search
- The Guadalquivir: Such unique points of view of cool landmarks
- Packing: Hydrate hydrate hydrate and do not forget sun protection!
- Safety: Very attentive but keep surroundings in awareness
- Fun: 100%! You get fresh air, moderate workout, awesome stuff
