How Much Does It Cost to Go Canoeing?

Canoeing is a great outdoor activity to explore the beauty of nature while relaxing, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But how much does it cost to go canoeing Is it an affordable water-based activity that anyone can explore without breaking the bank?

Here’s a simple answer to the question, ‘How much does canoeing cost?’ The price depends on where you plan to go and what type of canoe you want to sail on. So canoeing can cost you anywhere from the lowest rates of $300 to the highest of $3000 or more (+$ for the gears and other rental services you seek during the canoeing journey). 

Now if you’re struggling to create a budget estimate for canoeing, this blog will uncover all aspects that can affect the cost of canoeing. So keep reading to prepare yourself for that much-awaited canoeing trip fully.  

Different Areas Where Canoeing Costs Can Be Incurred

Canoeing can be a fun activity, especially if you enjoy water-based activities. However, when it comes to planning a canoeing trip, either solo or with friends/family, it’s important to be well-prepared for the incurring costs that you may have to pay for – ranging from services to security insurance/permits, 

Equipment:

Canoe gear can range in price from brand new to slightly worn, depending on the size, quality, and brand. So you can get the cheapest canoe gear in good condition from pre-owned stores or simply add to your budget and purchase brand-new canoe gear from high-profile brands. 

However, while you make the decision, it’s important to note that the brand and used/unused properties do not define the quality and performance of canoe gear. So it’s better to ensure that the gear you purchase, be it canoe clothing or paddling related gear will last long and do its job properly or not. 

Rental:

The cost of renting a canoe depends on various factors, including the boat, geographic area, and company rates. In general, renting a canoe will cost between $40 and $70 per day, although costs might range from $30 to more than $120. 

In fact, a canoe can also be rented for about $25 per hour. Precisely, a one-day canoe rental often costs between $30 and $50. So ensure you look for enough rental options, varying on the budget, before finalizing a rental service. 

canoe Transportation:

The cost of moving a canoe is determined by the size and weight of the boat, as well as the shipping firm you choose. Similarly, if you’re storing your canoe at home then you might need to hang the canoe on wall, which typically requires a basic setup (it doesn’t cost much). Whereas, if you want to transport canoe over your car, then installing canoe roof racks is best option.

Moving small canoes typically ranges in price from $50 to $120. However, depending on the distance and carrier utilized, shipping or moving a standard-sized canoe inside the continental United States can range from roughly $100 to $500 or more.

Food and Drinks:

The cost of food and drinks while canoeing varies based on the type of food you bring and the time you intend to be on the water. 

As a result, some people prefer to bring “real” food that has not been dried, while others prefer pre-packaged dehydrated meals marketed to trekkers or DIY dehydrated meals.

While you consider food costs and opt to bring food from home, remember that fresh fruits and vegetables, which spoil quickly, may not be good for extended canoe voyages. 

Instead, it’s better to consider dried fruits and veggies. Furthermore, bread is a good carbohydrate, but it is thicker and has a shorter shelf life than rice or pasta.

Parking:

If this is your first time planning a canoeing adventure, solo or with friends/family, you might also have to add canoe parking fees to your budget, so you can take a break from canoeing while ensuring that the canoe is safely parked. 

Now th fees for parking a canoe aren’t fixed, as it also varies on the canoe parking location. But at most, a canoe shuttle ride, i.e., parking your canoe and exploring the location, can range from $10 to $50, depending on how far you need to go.

Guided Tours:

For first-timers exploring the canoeing adventure, it’s always better to invest in a guided tour to explore the most of canoeing and the location you choose to set out on your sailing adventure. 

Having said that, the cost of seeking a guided trip can range from $50-$100 per person or per day. 

Cost of Camping or Lodging

Another important factor to consider when estimating your canoeing expense is the cost of canoe camping or lodging. Besides, if you plan to go for a longer canoeing journey, you may need to stop at camps or lodges. 

Considering that, campsites in any area might cost anywhere from $0-$30 or more per night. Yet, lodging rates at hotels and cabins change with distance from major tourist attractions and the time of year. 

So make sure to do your research on the camping and lodging sites at the location you choose and their rates before finalizing the trip. 

To secure your canoe from outside elements and for increasing its life, then it it best to paint your fiberglass canoe, or any canoe material. An important thing is that you can also paint a canoe at home, if you’ve all the equipment and know some basic stuff.

Permits:

The last thing you want to experience while canoeing is a legal issue due to the absence of a canoeing license or permit. Hence, having a permit is just as important as the necessary gear and safety equipment.

But how much would the gear cost? Well, according to credible sources, applicants often need to pay nothing to get their boating license. But in some states, you may have the option to choose between free and cheap options costing an average of $30 for each course. Other than seeking a permit, you must also register your canoe to ensure that your canoe is registered for sailing.

Insurance:

Like every other factor, canoeing insurance costs vary from company to company. According to insurance companies, canoe insurance costs can start from $100 per year. But the price can increase based on what the insurance covers. 

Note: Some costs are incurred if you’re renting a canoe.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy and Go Canoeing?

If you plan to buy a canoe for your planned canoeing trip, you might be thinking how much for a canoe. This is where you should consider various aspects, like where you can buy it from, whether you should go for a new or used canoe, the estimated total canoe rate range, etc. 

For instance, one of the highest-priced canoes you can find is Souris River’s Quetico 17, which is available in the market at a price of $3,145. In contrast, Sevylor’s Ogden is priced at $350.  

Now, let’s go ahead and explore the different factors that can be considered when buying a canoe: 

Where to Buy a Cheap Canoe?

If you plan to buy a canoe to save yourself from the frequent expenses of canoeing costs on rent, then it’s always better to go through the cheap marketplaces and create a budget-friendly list of options to pick from later. 

To help you out, we have listed some shopping platforms/options that can help you find cheap canoes to buy: 

1. Craigslist
2. eBay
3. Amazon
4. Outdoor stores like Sierra Trading Post, REI, etc. (stores that sell boating gear).

Some of the popular canoe brands are: 

• Pelican
• Sun Dolphin
• Old Town
• Esquif
• Nova Craft

What About Used Canoes?

If you’ve got your mind and heart set on a specific type of canoe going out of your budget, there’s always the option to buy a used canoe.

Besides, if we consider the most expensive and cheapest canoe examples mentioned earlier, then the same Souris River’s Quetico 17, available at a price of $3,145, can be bought in used condition at a rate of $2,500. Likewise, a used Sevylor’s Ogden can be available at a rate of $260.

You can find used canoes in good condition at sporting goods stores, internet classifieds sites, and even garage sales. 

Some specific platforms and marketplaces to consider to find used canoes include: 

• Craigslist
• Kijiji
• Canoe Rentals and Outfitters
• Facebook Groups, etc.

Note: Whatever marketplace you choose to purchase the pre-owned canoe, inspect it for damage and wear and tear before proceeding. 

Total Estimated Cost

So how much does it cost to go canoeing exactly? The prices for canoes typically start at $250 and can go up to $1,500 or more, varying on the type of canoe you choose. How many people you plan to bring along and the type of water you plan to paddle on will determine the type of canoe you should use.

Furthermore, your canoe purchasing budget can also increase or decrease based on whether you are purchasing a new or pre-owned canoe.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent and Go Canoeing?

If this is your first time canoeing, it might be best to rent a canoe rather than buy one. Now, you might be wondering if it is even in your budget. Here’s the good news: Renting a canoe can be more affordable to explore and feed your passion for sailing. 

Let’s break down the average renting costs of a canoe to make it easier for you to set a budget. 

Rental Cost As Per the Size of the Canoe:

Typically, canoe rental fees range from roughly $20 to $50 per day. Furthermore, the charges for renting a canoe for a week can be around $100. 

Now let’s break down the approx. canoe rental prices based on the size of the canoe: 

• Average Rental Price of Small Canoes: $20-$30 Daily
• Average Rental Price of Medium Canoes: $35 to $45
• Average Rental Price of Large Canoes: $50-$60 Per Day

Apart from the rental price per day, canoe rental companies may also charge you a damage deposit, added to the rental charge. This damage deposit is returned to you if there are no damages on the canoe once you hand it over after your rental period finishes.

How Much Does Rental Gear Cost?

Did you know that canoe gear can also be rented from various sources, such as outdoor stores and outfitters? The fee for renting the gear, however, varies according to the duration of the rental and the type of canoe you will use the gear on. 

Below are some common gear you will need to rent for your canoeing journey with their average renting prices: 

• Canoe Paddle: $2-$5 per day
• Canoe seat: $2-$5 per day
• Canoe Life jacket: $2-$5 per day
• You may also need to rent a dry bag or portage pack, which will cost you an additional $10-$20 a day. 

Note: If you’re a long-term traveler who often rents a canoe, it might be best to consider purchasing your own canoeing supplies/gears to save yourself from the frequent renting cost. 

Total Estimated Cost

For all those wondering how much does canoe cost, here’s the answer: The average cost to rent a canoe for the day can vary between $36 – $95 per day, including the renting cost of all the gear you will need with a canoe). However, prices vary widely depending on where you go, the type and size of canoe you choose to rent, rental duration, and rental business.  

What are Some Tips to Save Money on Your Next Canoeing Trip?

Here are some money-saving suggestions for your upcoming canoeing adventure:

• Instead of purchasing equipment, consider renting it.
• Make sure that your meals are planned out in advance.
• Pick a campground that doesn’t cost you anything to stay at.
• Bring the items you will consume instead of buying them during canoeing. 
• Instead of a GPS device, you should use a map.
• Plan your trip for the shoulder or off-season.
• Instead of renting a car, you could take advantage of public transportation.

FAQs – How Much Does It Cost to Go Canoeing

How expensive is a canoe?

The average price of a canoe is $900. But you can also find expensive branded canoes priced at $3000 or more. 

What are some best locations for canoeing in the US?

While there are many ideal canoeing spots in the US, you can make the most of your sailing journey at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest, Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Minnesota, and Lake Clementine in Central California.

What are some best locations for canoeing in Canada?

Some of the best locations to choose from when canoeing in Canada include; the Yukon River, Baffin Island, Lake Moraine, Johnstone Strait, Vancouver Island, and Lake Louise, Banff National Park.

Do the cost of a canoeing trip change by Location?

Yes, canoe trips can range in price from free to hundreds of dollars. Location, season, and the availability of extras can all affect how much a hotel or other lodging costs.

Is canoeing cheaper than kayaking?

Yes, canoes are less expensive than kayaks because they are simpler and require fewer materials to construct.

How long is the average canoe trip?

The duration of canoeing trips depends on when you plan to go canoeing. While day trips can last around 4-6 hours, weekend trips are generally 2-3 days, and multi-day trips can last for days and/or weeks. 

What is the best time of year to go canoeing?

In most parts of the United States, late spring through early summer and fall are the ideal times to go canoeing.

How much does canoeing cost at the viridian park?

Rental rates for paddlers at Viridian Park can cost around $20/hour. Besides rentals, the park also offers classes and training services for paddlers of all ages and expertise. 

How much does canoeing cost at Mohican Adventures?

Canoe rentals at Mohican Adventures start at about $25 per hour for two people, with additional charges for an extended time.