Kayak Tours

Join us for a two-hour kayak tour around New Quay’s beautiful coastline.

We often see wildlife such as dolphins, porpoises, seals, fish, crustaceans and lots of seabirds. See here for more info: https://www.welshwildlife.org/cardigan-bay-wildlife

Depending on conditions we will cruise (at the speed of the slowest paddler) along the coast from Penpolion pier (the small pier in New Quay) south past the main pier, the fish factory and Carreg Walltog, to the caves and cliffs near Birds Rock.

Your guide will begin with a briefing on land to introduce themselves and let you know what to expect. You can use a single or double-seater kayak. There will also be advice on kayaking technique and safety, so that during the tour we can concentrate on giving lots of commentary on the local area. Our guides are long-time locals or Marine Wildlife Centre volunteers with loads of knowledge of the area.

We always follow the Marine Code of Conduct and stay at least 100m away from the cliffs to respect the seabirds and other wildlife – this is where they breed and live! The full Marine Code of Conduct can be seen here: https://www.cardiganbaywatersports.org.uk/policies/ceredigion-marine-conservation-code-of-conduct/

Safety

Following kayakers at a discreet distance will be our new RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Gemini, which is fully coded to carry passengers on a commercial basis, and is crewed by fully-trained and experienced skippers, commercially endorsed by the RYA (Royal Yachting Association). If anyone becomes tired or feels ill, the boat will pick them up and make them comfortable; you can then re-join the tour or stay on the boat. 

Equipment

You will be paddling one of our open-top kayaks (single or double); these are nice and stable. You will get your feet and bum wet, but otherwise should stay dry. We have wetsuits you can hire. We will provide spraytops (cagouls which will keep the wind and water off) and everyone must wear a buoyancy aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How old do I need to be to take part?

    Minimum age 8

  • What types of kayaks are available?

    We have single and double kayaks; smaller kids are best with an adult.

  • What do I need to wear?

    You don’t have to wear a wetsuit, but wear warm clothes if you aren’t.

  • Do I need to be a good swimmer?

    You need a basic level of water confidence.

  • Will I get a certification?

    This session does not carry certification.

  • Can I bring my own kit?

    Please note we use our own kit and cannot use yours.

  • What happens if there are no suitable dates for me?

    If there are no dates that suit you, please contact us.

  • How large is the group in each session?

    We can take a max of six students to one instructor.

  • Are activities at a set time every day?

    We may have to adjust preferred timings to allow for the tide.

  • Where to stay, park, eat etc?

    Please see our main FAQs page for information on Where to stay, park, eat etc.