frequently asked questions
Booking
Bookings can be made through our online booking facility.
In the Summer season, it is advisable to book ahead to avoid disappointment, especially for weekend trips, as they get booked out well in advance of the trip.
• We operate a 5 day cancellation policy.
• Please be sure to let us know at least 5 days in advance via email (or by phone during office hours). If you choose to reschedule your trip, you will receive a voucher code to enable you to do this. Alternatively you can choose a full refund.
• Without 5 days notice and in the event of you not showing up, you will be liable to pay the full amount and no refund will be possible.
•For group bookings we require at least 7 days notice of cancellation via email.
Our first priority as always, is the health and safety of our guests and staff. We have comprehensive procedures in place for Covid-19.
In the interest of public safety, and in line with Government Policy, we are unable to allow people to kayak with us who have travelled into Ireland and are within the two weeks restricted movement phase asked of them. We sincerely hope this is understandable.
The Tour
We supply wetsuits (wind and splash proof jackets) neoprene boots which keep you toasty in cold weather.
• boats
• buoyancy aids
• spray decks
• safety equipment and instruction
• guiding
Our half-day tours run daily at 10am & 2pm, with another tour at 6pm during the months of May, June, July & August. Full-day tours would start at 10am.
You can expect: to be safe, comfortable, to get individual attention, new experiences and encounters, fabulous kayaking, beautiful scenery, to meet great people and hear local history and stories from your knowledgeable guides. This is all washed down with a magnificent visual banquet that is the North Clare coastline on The Wild Atlantic Way.
Footwear: old runners or wetsuit shoes. No big boots please!
Bodywear: Activity leggings/tracksuit, thermals, fleece..
Headgear: wool or fleece hat (in cold weather)Sun hat in warm weather
Bring: a change of clothes, sun block, a towel, water…… and a smile!
Food: Lunch and snacks
No. All of our tours are designed to accommodate any experience level from novice to expert. Please make us aware if you have any health concerns before going out on the water to ensure your comfort.
We work on a ratio of one guide for every 4-6 kayakers, and take up to 14 kayakers out at one time, though larger groups can be accommodated with advanced notice.
The West coast of Ireland is filled with a huge variety of sea animals and birds. Along our tours, we will have a chance to see seals, otters, and dolphins in their natural environment as well as an abundance of sea birds including; Gannets, Razorbills, Puffins, Petrels, Kittiwakes, Great Shearwaters and many others.
Children from age 10 and up can accompany their parent in our tandem kayaks for our Wild Burren or Enchanted Lake and River tour.
Special arrangements can be made for children with kayaking experience.
Never too old, and you are safe with our experienced guides.
Depending on your shape, up to UK size 24 will usually fit in a double kayak and we can also use a sit on top kayak double for anyone who would prefer that option. It is also possible to meet the instructor before the trip and try out the boat for size in privacy.
Our double kayaks can accommodate most tall people and we can also use a sit on top kayak double for anyone who would prefer that option. It is also possible to meet the instructor before the trip and try out the boat for length in privacy.
Please contact us to discuss and we will do our utmost to accommodate you.
Safety
This is a question we are often asked. The answer is “yes”!
At all times you will be wearing floatation.
Our motto is “prevention is better than a cure”. We design our trips and tours to suit the level of our visitors.
We use the most recent kayaks and quality equipment.
We mostly use stable double kayaks (singles are available if requested)
Most importantly, all of our instructor guides are highly trained in kayak rescue, first aid, use of VHF radios which are carried with them as well as other safety equipment. All our trips are designed based on weather and sea conditions combined with our visitors ability. We have an intimate knowledge of our local coastal area and constantly check weather forecasts. We keep instructor /client ratios low to ensure safety and personal attention.
We kayak in sheltered calm areas unless we are running an advanced trip or teaching a training course.
No, but we generally encourage you to learn
We insist that all kayak wear appropriate buoyancy at all time while on the water with us.
Transportation
We do not provide transportation to the tour site. You will have to provide your own transportation to the tour site. There are also plenty of sustainable transport options – for a comprehensive guide – check out www.burren.ie or download the app.