Canoeing & Kayaking Safety – What You Need to Know Before You Go

Never sat in a canoe before and feeling a little apprehensive? That’s perfectly normal, and we want to reassure you right away: the Vézère is a Class 1 river, the easiest there is. Calm, no rapids, moderate current. Safety is our number one priority; here’s how we ensure it.

Minimum Age and Physical Requirements

To paddle the Vézère River with Les 7 Rives:

• Minimum age: 5 years old (accompanied in a family canoe)
• Essential requirement: ability to swim and submerge
• No particular physical condition is required for recreational trips
• Suitable for pregnant women in their first trimester (consult your doctor)

Mandatory Safety Equipment

We provide each paddler with:

• A certified personal flotation device (PFD) – mandatory for everyone
• A waterproof container for your personal belongings

For your part, the absolute requirement: shoes that stay securely on your feet. This is the leading cause of minor injuries (cuts, sprains) when boarding.

→ What to bring for a canoe or kayak trip on the Vézère River?
→ What to wear for canoeing on the Vézère River?

Rules to follow on the river

• Stay in the middle of the river to avoid low-hanging branches on the banks
• Stay with the group
• If you run aground, exit on the upstream side to prevent the current from pushing the boat against you
• Respect the designated swimming areas
• If you are unsure about the weather, call us before setting out (storms can arrive quickly on the Dordogne)

Basic techniques in 5 minutes

Our team will train you in launching and explain:

• How to hold and handle the paddle
• How to move forward, brake, and turn
• How to approach an obstacle (branch, rock)
• What to do in case of capsizing (very rare on the Vézère River)

With these basics, you’ll be independent. And if you have any questions along the way, our team is available, and shuttles run regularly.