Gdansk: Winter Kayaking Tour

If you’re looking for an activity that combines adventure, scenery, and a touch of local flavor, the Gdansk Winter Kayaking Tour might just be your perfect match. While most visitors stick to walking tours or boat cruises, kayaking in winter is a different animal altogether — and honestly, it’s one that offers a fresh perspective on this historic Polish city. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this experience is both memorable and well-organized.

What we really love about this tour is how it allows you to see the well-preserved Old Town and shipyard from a totally different angle. Plus, the emphasis on top-notch equipment and safety means you can enjoy the ride without worrying about the cold or water. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather — it takes place rain or shine, and cold temperatures might not be for everyone. But if you’re someone who enjoys outdoor adventures and doesn’t mind bundling up, this could be an extraordinary way to spend a few winter hours.

This kayaking tour is best suited for those who are comfortable in water, appreciate scenic city views, and are prepared for the cold. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for an active, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines a bit of history with outdoor fun. Just keep in mind the age restriction (15 and above) and the requirement to communicate in English.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: See Gdansk’s iconic sights from the water—perfect for photography lovers.
• Warm gear provided: High-quality dry suits and paddle muffles keep you dry and cozy despite winter temperatures.
• Guided insights: Knowledgeable guides share interesting details about the city’s history and landmarks.
• Short but memorable: Around 2.5 to 3 hours, ideal for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, making it more personal and engaging.
• Weather-proof activity: Runs rain or shine, though severe weather might cancel or reschedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Experience Overview: What the Tour Looks Like

The Gdansk Winter Kayaking Tour begins at a central meeting point, where you’ll meet your guide and get fitted with all the necessary gear. Expect to spend about 30 minutes on a safety briefing, during which your guide will explain how to handle the tandem kayak, use the spray skirt, and stay warm with the dry suit and paddle muffles. This initial step is reassuring, especially for those new to kayaking, and helps build confidence.

Once geared up, you’ll hop into your kayak and set off into the calm waters of the Motlawa River, with its towering shipyard cranes and historic surroundings. The guide will lead you down the twists and turns of the river and the Radunia canal, revealing the city’s highlights from the vantage point of the water. You’ll see colorful Old Town buildings, medieval granaries, and Olowianka island with its charming restored structures.

One of the tour’s highlights is the scenery around the shipyard, where the giant green cranes dominate the skyline. It’s a striking contrast to the bright facades of Gdansk’s Old Town, and paddling past these landmarks creates a sense of being part of the city’s living history. You’ll cruise under the Olowianka Footbridge, which offers a perfect photo opportunity, and get close to the granary islands, which are beautifully restored and add a splash of medieval charm.

Throughout the experience, your guide will share insights into the city’s past, pointing out noteworthy buildings, stories, and interesting facts. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience both educational and enjoyable. After about 105 minutes on the water, you’ll cruise back to the starting point, where a warm cup of hot chocolate (often allergy-friendly and made with soy milk) awaits as a perfect way to warm up and reflect on the adventure.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The equipment plays a big role in making this activity pleasurable — and safe. You’re provided with a dry suit, which is essential for keeping warm and dry in winter conditions, and paddle muffles that prevent your hands from freezing. The tandem kayak setup is stable and designed for comfort, even if you’re new to kayaking.

The tour runs regardless of rain or shine, but safety is prioritized. The activity is canceled only in dangerous weather conditions, with options for rescheduling or refunds. The group is limited to 10 participants, which means you get personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

Expect the tour to be suitable for most travelers who are comfortable swimming and communicating in English. The minimum age is 15, with all minors needing an adult present. The weight limit is 110 kg (about 243 lbs), so larger travelers might need to consider this restriction.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Meetup and Safety Briefing: Once at the designated meeting point (near the yacht club, marked by red shipping containers), your guide kicks off with a 30-minute safety briefing. Expect clear instructions on how to handle the kayak, operate the dry suit, and what to do in case of any issues. Many reviewers appreciated the guide’s friendliness and thoroughness — “guide was very nice and informative,” one wrote.

• Kayaking on the Motlawa River: The core of the tour lasts roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. As you paddle past the shipyard cranes, you’ll get a sense of Gdansk’s industrial past, juxtaposed with the colorful, lively facades of the Old Town. The guide often shares stories about the landmarks, making it feel like a floating history lesson.

• Cruising through the Radunia Canal: This part of the route offers a more intimate view of the city’s architecture and waterways, with some reviewers describing it as “romantic” and “unforgettable.” The calm waters and narrow passages make for a peaceful experience, even in winter.

• Return and Hot Chocolate: After the paddle, you’ll head back to the starting point, where a hot chocolate (or alternative if specified, like soy milk) waits. Many travelers mention how warming and satisfying this small touch is after being out in the cold.

The Weather and What to Wear

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the high-quality protective gear, which makes winter kayaking feasible and enjoyable. Still, you’ll want to dress appropriately — think thermal layers, long-sleeved shirts, and a hat. The dry suit keeps water out, but layering is key for warmth. Participants have noted feeling “very warm enough,” even at -4°C, thanks to the gear.

Having a change of clothes is recommended for after the activity, especially if you get splashed or just want to change into something dry. The tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for different weather conditions, but know that safety and comfort are prioritized.

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The Value of the Experience

Considering the price, many reviewers feel it’s a good value for the unique perspective and personalized attention. With small groups and professional guides, you’re paying for quality rather than quantity. The experience balances outdoor adventure with cultural insights, making it more than just a paddle on the water.

The reviews highlight that this is a “highlight of the trip” for several visitors, and the fact that it’s suitable for those who want a different way to see Gdansk makes it stand out in a city full of typical tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys water activities, especially unique ones like winter kayaking, this tour is likely to be a highlight. It’s ideal for those aged 15 and above who are comfortable in water, can communicate in English, and appreciate scenic, historical settings.

People looking for a relaxed, sunny boat cruise might prefer something more traditional, but if you’re craving a bit of adventure and a memorable experience, this tour fits the bill. Keep in mind, if you have health conditions that make cold weather challenging or are over the weight limit, you might want to pass on this activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is only available for participants aged 15 and above. It’s not designed for children under 15, mainly due to the size of the dry suits and safety considerations.

Do I need to have kayaking experience?
No prior experience is necessary. The guide provides clear instructions, and the tandem kayaks are designed for stability. If you’re comfortable swimming and able to follow directions, you’ll be fine.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, long-sleeved shirts, thermal layers, and a change of clothes. The dry suit and paddle muffles provided will keep you dry and warm during the activity.

Will I get wet?
You might get splashed, but the spray skirts and dry suits are meant to prevent water from entering the kayak, helping you stay dry and warm.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine but can be canceled in dangerous weather conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I book last minute?
It’s best to reserve in advance, especially during peak times, but with the flexible booking option (reserve now, pay later), you have some leeway.

Final Thoughts

The Gdansk Winter Kayaking Tour offers a rare chance to see this historic port city from a different angle — all while wrapped in high-quality gear that keeps the cold at bay. It’s a great pick for those who love outdoor activities and are looking for something memorable beyond the usual walking tour. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and small group size make it a personalized experience that many travelers rave about.

If you’re comfortable with water, enjoy a bit of adventure, and don’t mind chilly weather, this tour will give you stories to tell long after your trip ends. For those seeking a peaceful, active way to explore Gdansk’s waterways and architecture, it’s hard to beat.

However, if you’re sensitive to cold or have specific health restrictions, you might want to think twice or choose a warmer, more conventional sightseeing option. Overall, for adventurous spirits and curious travelers, this kayaking experience is a memorable highlight—and a fun story to bring home.

Sources: GetYourGuide

You can check availability for your dates here: