Rideau Canal Canoe & Kayak Sales & Rentals
No-Shows...
Written by Ted Hitsman Thursday, 19 August 2010 20:41
Our policy of not requiring deposits, and not charging cancellation fees, has served us well over the years, but recent and frequent occurences have led us to change how we rent boats to you.
We have had several no-shows and tardy renters, who have caused a lot of wasted time. To avoid this, we will now react when you come to the store, not when you tell us you will be here. Your boats will be available a bit later, instead of being ready beforehand. If you plan to arrive before opening time, call us when you arrive - we will not be waiting for you. The time savings are significant, meaning we can continue to operate with our policy on deposits and cancellations.
Parks Canada Locks Staff
Written by Ted Hitsman Saturday, 24 July 2010 21:11
We extend our thanks to the staff who work at the Lock stations from Ottawa to Kingston: all our renters have great things to say about the excellent service from them, without exception. This has been a tough summer, with the heat and typical eastern Ontario humidity, and our travellers say that the best part of their trips have been the helpful and friendly Locks operators.
More good news from Parks Canada: on July 23 Parks announced funding of $275,000 for the supply and installation of special docks for kayakers and canoeists at every lock station along the canal.
The season has opened!
LAST_UPDATED2 Written by Ted Hitsman Sunday, 23 May 2010 15:46
We're starting the 2010 season on Monday, May 24.
If you'd like to rent from us, we have some assists to make it easier for you to rent, and for us to rent to you:
- give us as much advance notice as possible: we're busy with picture framing and helping other renters; if you can give us as much notice as possible, we'll be able to respond faster. Call the store at 613 269-3566.
- bring your cell phone: you can store it in your car when you go out, and use it to call us to meet you when you return.
Welcome to CanalTripping.com
Written by Administrator Thursday, 12 October 2006 05:00
We started with a few boats in a retail store, but quickly learned that visitors wanted to rent, not buy.
Our original fleet of twelve expanded to 40 boats, and the size of our fleet now fluctuates, as we sell rental boats at low prices and replace them, keeping the fleet up to date. The entire business is operated from a specially-built, high-capacity trailer.
We've had hundreds of customers who have taken our boats for hours or weeks, from a group of one, to The Paddling Divas - a group of forty, using 21 of our boats.
Our customers have come from Ottawa, Quebec, Toronto, Vancouver, New York, New Jersey and England, all wanting to experiencing paddling the Rideau.The stretch of river above Merrickville is full of wildlife - if you missed seeing the Ospreys in their nests on your way here, you'll see them upriver. Paddlers will see otters, shore birds, turtles and more.
This site lists the most popular trips taken by our renters. Their use of the Rideau Canal waterway is made more enjoyable by the knowledgeable and pleasant staff of Parks Canada, who provide information, assistance and a friendly welcome at each lock station along the way.
Latest News
Safety
Safety & Comfort
Wear your PFD!
Our boats are safe when used properly, but will tip if you're careless. We advise you not to go out in high wind, use your intuition and be cautious, and paddle with a buddy. We advise you not to rent our boats if you are not a competent swimmer.
Lock your cell phone and valuables in your car, and use a water-tight camera case. We do supply dry-bags on request. Bring your own PFD and/or paddle if you feel more comfortable with them. Bring sunscreen, a hat, water and snacks. Whatever you forget is sold in Merrickville.
Don't be afraid to cancel and reschedule if the weather is not suitable - we want happy outcomes, and cancellations are always part of this business.
Who's Online
Weather
