Our most FAQ’s are featured below – if there’s something you are curious about that’s not answered here, get in touch and let us know!

How much does it cost to rent a kayak/stand up paddleboard/surfski?

Our minimum rental is 2 hours – prices as follows:

Single Kayak Double Kayak Stand Up Paddleboard Surfski
2 Hours $49 $76 $49 $49
3 Hours $72 $108 $72 $72
Full Day $115 $145 $115 $115
24 Hours $129 $179 $129 $129
48 Hours $188 $268 $188 $188
Extra Day $59 $89 $59 $59

Prices above do not include GST. If you want to save time on check in, our regular waiver forms can be found by clicking here, and our parental consent forms here.

Where are you located?

Our rental location is in central Deep Cove. Please visit our About Us page by clicking here for a detailed map.

Can I rent kayaks for multiple days?

Yes you can, depending on total duration of your trip and availability.

Do I have to reserve?

We absolutely recommend reserving to avoid disappointment. While walk-ins are welcome, we do sell out regularly on busy weekends so it is always best to reserve by calling us at 604.929.2268.

What if it is forecast to rain?

In the Spring and Fall our opening hours are weather dependent, please call us at 604.929.2268 to confirm we are open before coming down. During the summer months we are open rain or shine, so come anyway! paddling in the rain is often a great experience as it is usually calm out on the water and there is less boat traffic. We have paddling tops available to rent if you do not have a suitable rain jacket.

What if I need to cancel at the last minute?

If you need to cancel please let us know as soon as possible so we can give your spot to somebody else. We do try to be accommodating so please call us if your plans change last minute.

If you are hoping to get a refund please refer to the cancellation windows below:

Rentals: 24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule a regular reservation. There is a $15 cancellation fee per boat per day for less than 24 hours’ notice. Your rental period begins from the start time of your reservation.

Overnight Rentals: require 48 hours notice for cancellation otherwise the same charge of $15 per boat per day will apply.

Tours: 48 hours notice for a full refund – within 48 hours, no refund

Single-Day Lessons: 7 days notice for a full refund – 48 hours notice to reschedule to another date where possible.

Multi-Day Lessons: 14 days notice for a full refund – 7 days notice to reschedule to another date where possible.

Kids Camps: 14 days notice for a full refund – 7 days notice to reschedule to another date where possible.

Private Kids Camps (Pods): 28 days notice for a full refund (depending)

What do I wear to go kayaking?

Dress for the weather! Be prepared to be active and comfortable. We do push you out from the beach once you are in your boat and bring you back in, but do be prepared to get wet.  Insulating long sleeved non-cotton top and bottoms are best to wear, something like Merino Wool or similar is great – we have a great selection of paddlewear at our retail store Coast Outdoors. As you may get wet, please bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your paddle.

We also recommend secure footwear that you don’t mind getting wet, a non-cotton toque or brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses with strap.  If you wear prescription glasses we also recommend using a strap.

In colder weather check out our post about options available.

What do I wear to go stand up paddleboarding?

Dress for the weather! Be prepared to be active and comfortable. We do help you get on and get off your board, but do be prepared to get wet.  Insulating long sleeved non-cotton top and bottoms are best to wear, something like Merino Wool or similar is great – we have a great selection of Icebreaker clothing at our retail store Coast Outdoors. As you may get wet, please bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your paddle.

We also recommend secure footwear that you don’t mind getting wet, a non-cotton toque or brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses with strap.  If you wear prescription glasses we also recommend using a strap.

When are you open?

We are usually open from March through October, but opening hours change depending on daylight and conditions. Our detailed opening hours can be found here.

Where can I park in Deep Cove?

Parking in the Cove is free but limited and it can often longer than you expect to find parking so please leave plenty of time before your reservation to find parking. See this page for Summer parking in the Cove.

ARGH I am going to be late for my rental/lesson/tour what should I do?

Call us at 604.929.2268 as soon as you know you are going to be late and we will try to move your reservation, however on busy days there may be people booked after you so your rental time may be reduced.

Lessons and Tours have to run when scheduled but do call us at 604.929.2268 as we may be able to accommodate you depending on the circumstances.

How will I know what time it is out on the water?

If you do not have a waterproof watch, we do sell phone cases that you can take on the water with you if you would like to have your phone.

If you do not have a watch or phone with you, please ask other people you see out on the water. If you are late returning your equipment you may be charged, especially if you inconvenience another renter.

What happens if I get lost on the water and can’t get back to Deep Cove?

We ask you before you leave what your intended destination is, so if you are not back when you say you are going to be we know where to look for you. We have a couple of motor boats always available to perform rescues. You may want to consider taking your phone in a waterproof case as we do have fairly good cell reception.

Best thing to do is stick to your intended destination, be aware of your surroundings and not get lost in the first place.

I broke my kayak by beaching onto a rock – what do I do?

Please report any damages on your return, mainly so that the equipment is in good shape for the next person who gets into it.

In signing our rental agreement you have accepted that in the event that the boat or board needs repairing, you will be liable for all costs. If your craft has been damaged so that you cannot paddle back to the Cove, please call us at 604.929.2268 to arrange to pick you up.

Do you provide a lesson if it is my first time on the water?

Yes, if it’s your first time kayaking, Deep Cove Kayak requires you to participate in a mandatory introductory, on water paddling demonstration. This session is designed to improve your skills and ensure safety on the water. We will also give you a short introduction to the equipment and safety features of the boat or board you are renting prior to going out on the water. If you are particularly nervous or would like a full lesson we recommend our Intro to Kayaking or Intro to Stand Up Paddleboarding Lessons which run regularly throughout the season.

What kind of kayaks can I rent?

We have a wide range of sea kayaks available to suit most paddlers. They range from 14′ plastic recreational single kayaks to 22′ fiberglass touring double kayaks. When you call 604.929.2268 to make your reservation please ask us more about the range of kayaks on offer and we can suggest some appropriate for your needs.

My friend is of a larger build, do you have a kayak for someone who is 250 lbs?

We do. Please tell us when you call 604.929.2268 to reserve that you might need a larger kayak and we can discuss your needs to find the right fit.

My father is 6’8” tall, do you have a kayak that will fit him?

We do. Please tell us when you call 604.929.2268 to reserve that you might need a larger kayak and we can discuss your needs to find the right fit.

Can I rent a kayak if I am by myself?

Solo paddlers must explain and/or demonstrate a solo capsize and recovery in order to rent a boat and paddle unaccompanied. If you would like to learn how to perform a solo capsize and recovery please ask about our Solo Paddling Lesson. If you cannot do so, you will not be permitted to take a kayak out by yourself and instead may be able to join a Tour or rent a stand up paddleboard.

What kind of stand up paddleboards do you have?

We have a range of stand up paddleboards available, from very large stable boards to more narrow performance boards. When calling 604.929.2268 to reserve, please ask about what we have available so we can meet your requirements.

What is a surfski?

A surfski is a kayak designed for higher performance. They are typically lighter than regular sea kayaks and have a bucket seat and foot pedals rather than a cockpit. They are fantastic for paddling around Indian Arm but we recommend taking a lesson if you want to paddle them solo to learn the correct method to remount.

What kind of surfskis do you have to rent?

We have a very stable surfski available – namely the Think Ace. Higher performance surfskis maybe demoed from our retail store Coast Outdoors – please call 604.987.2202 to discuss your needs.

Can I bring my children kayaking?

Children are permitted in our kayaks but must be accompanied by an adult. There must be one or more adult for each child under the age of 16. Based on age and size, children may be required to go in a double kayak with an adult.

Please call us at 604-929-2268 to clarify any restrictions to avoid disappointment.

Can my child have his or her own paddleboard?

Adults aged 19 and over are permitted to rent stand up paddleboards without any restrictions. Only one adult is permitted per stand up paddleboard. Children aged 15 and under who are at least 5ft tall can go on the water on their own board as long as an adult is on the water with them. Children under 5ft tall must be on a board with an adult. 16, 17 and 18 year olds can go on the water alone if they provide a signed parental consent form.

Please call on 604-929-2268 to clarify any restrictions to avoid disappointment.

Can I bring a child that is not legally under my care kayaking?

You can, but for anyone under the age of 19 you must bring a Parental Consent Form signed by a parent or legal guardian or have our online waiver signed before you come.

Parental Consent Form or parents can sign our online waiver here.

What age can my child join one of your Kids’ Camps?

Our Kids Camps for kayaking start for age 7 and up and stand up paddleboarding start for ages 10 and up.

I’d like to get a Season’s Pass, how much are they?

Our Season’s Pass starts at $495 for a single pass. Check out this page for more info on Season’s Passes including prices for double and family passes as well as restrictions and benefits.

How do I join the Tuesday Night Race?

You can just come along! We recommend arriving around 6pm to register, particularly if it is your first time and then you get plenty of time to warm up before the race at 7pm. You can call us at 604.929.2268 to reserve a board or boat if you do not have your own. The Events Page will tell you which race is coming up.

What is the Women on Water paddle?

Women on Water (WOW) is a women only paddle that goes every Thursday evening through the summer from April to September. It starts at 6.30 for two hours, weather and light depending. It is a great way to meet some awesome women from all over Vancouver – some of our guides even started at WOW! Call 604.929.2268 to reserve your boat.

Where is Cates Park Paddling Centre and what do they offer there?

Cates Park Paddling Centre is our rental location in lovely Cates Park. It is open on weekends through the summer and some Fridays and Mondays. We have single and double kayaks available to rent as well as stand up paddleboards. It is only a 5 minute drive from Deep Cove or a short bus ride.

How do I buy a gift card?

You can buy one at either Deep Cove Kayak or at Deep Cove Outdoors in person, or you can call us at 604.929.2268 or 604.987.2202 to buy one over the phone that we can then post out to you.

Where is a good destination for a 2 hour paddle?

There are lots! Check out this post to give you some ideas. We can also chat to you when you arrive or while you are booking your kayaks or stand up paddleboards with options too.

What wildlife am I likely to see?

There is heaps of wildlife in the Cove to see! Out of the water there are Bald Eagles and maybe even bears along the shoreline, and in the water seals, salmon, jellies, starfish and anemones.

Are there sharks in the water?

Not really nope – only very small mud sharks (dogfish) that live at the bottom of the Cove and don’t ever bother anyone.

I need a drysuit/wetsuit – where can I get one?

We can rent you a wetsuit – included for all lessons and a small charge if you want one for rentals. We sell drysuits at our retail store

Can I camp on Indian Arm?

You can – at Twin Islands, Berg’s Landing or Granite Falls.

How many beers can you fit in a kayak?

You can probably fit a fair few beers in a kayak BUT please note that alcohol consumption is prohibited in all BC Parks (Indian Arm included) apart from at your campsite. Please drink responsibly, and practice the Leave No Trace style of camping/exploring.

Where can I get dry bags?

We have a large selection of dry bags available to purchase at Coast Outdoors and a smaller selection at Deep Cove Kayak including phone cases.

How do I join a Dragon Boat team?

Contact the teams via the contact info provided on their pages and see if they are looking for team members.

I would like to bring my school group/community group/work team kayaking – what can I do?

Best thing to do is to contact our Group Bookings Coordinator by calling 604.987.8028 or emailing groupbookings@deepcovekayak.com. They will provide info on rates and availability.

Where can I buy a used or new kayak, stand up paddleboard or surfski?

Coast Outdoors handles all sales of our new and used equipment. Head to 352 Lynn Avenue to check out the best selection and best advice in Vancouver!

Can I join your mailing list?

Absolutely. Sign up by clicking here. We send out newsletters about once a month with details on events, sales or interesting stuff for you guys!

I would like to work for you guys – where do I apply?

Right here. Deep Cove Kayak is a great place to work – just ask anyone who works here!

Where can I get a bite to eat after my paddle?

There are a whole heap of places in Deep Cove. Honey’s Doughnuts does great sandwiches and errr donuts, Arm’s Reach Bistro is a lovely restaurant with a great view, The Raven is a good solid pub and The Village Table offers a fantastic dinner and brunch menu with local ingredients.

I have a question not on the list – how do I contact you?

Easiest way is to call us at 604.929.2268, or email gokayaking@deepcovekayak.com We try to get back to emails and messages as soon as we can but we do get VERY busy in the summer so bear with us!