Freqently Asked Questions
"Safety First!"
Q. I've never kayaked before and would love to do it. I'm a bit scared of falling in. Can you help me?
A. At Barossa Kayak Hire we want you to feel confident and most importantly safe on the water, even if you have never kayaked before. So if you are a complete novice don't worry. We provide all the equipment and local knowledge you will need to get started - making your self guided tour a relaxing and enjoyable experience on the tranquil reservoir waters.
"Lifejackets/PFDs?"
Q. Do you supply lifejackets or do we need to bring our own?
A. Here's some key information for you:
Lifejackets
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We only supply Lifejackets (also known as P.F.Ds. Personal Flotation Devices/Buoyancy Aids or lifevests) for adults over 40kg and for children over 25kgs.
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Our Lifejackets may not be suitable for some persons with physical disabilities. Please discuss your needs prior to booking.
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If you wish to use your own Lifejacket you MUST present it to a member of BKH for a water safety compliance inspection prior to commencing the hire.
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Limited life-vests (Level 100) are available for toddlers and small children with a weight between 15kg and 25kg. Please contact Barossa Kayak Hire at time of booking to reserve.
"Car keys?"
Q. What do I do with my phone and car key during the kayak? Do you look after our property?
A. We supply small drybags onboard our kayaks for small items like phones, medications and car key fobs. A demo is given on how to use these bags if you aren't sure about how they work. Please remember that all items placed in the drybags are under the hirer's care and control and Barossa Kayak Hire accepts no responsibility for the loss or damage of personal property during the hire period.
"Dogs?"
Q. Please can you tell me if I can bring my dog to the reservoir and/or kayaking with me?
A. Unfortunately not. Please see Reservoirs SA - Conditions of Access
"Paddleboarding?"
Q. My friends would like to bring their paddleboards. Is that okay?
A. Unfortunately paddleboards are not currently permitted on the reservoirs. Please see Reservoirs SA - Conditions of Access
"Large groups?"
Q. I'm a hoping to organise a large group kayaking trip. Do you do these?
A. We have a large number of kayaks available for group hires. Group hires can take advantage of special rates when 10+ kayaks are hired. We have previously provided tours and hires for schools, colleges, community organisations and kayaking events. Please enquire directly at barossakayakhire@gmail.com to discuss your plans.
"Weight allowed?"
Q. Please can you tell me the weight capacities for your kayaks.
A.
Weight Capacities
Maximum passenger weights:
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Single kayak - individual passenger 120kgs max.
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Double kayak - combined passenger weight 220kgs max.
The maximum passenger weight for single kayaks is 120kgs. For doubles the maximum combined weight of all passengers must not exceed 220kgs. In the interest of safety, these maximum weight capacities MUST be adhered to. BKH reserves the right to alter the kayak manifest regarding passenger weights to ensure maximum stability on the water.
"Open all year round?"
Q. Do you close in the cooler months?
A. We never close but we do operate under a reduced capacity and sessions in the cooler months. If you are keen to get outdoors during 1st July and 30th September you can still make a booking by contacting us directly by
"Waivers?"
Q. What is the Online Pre-Check In? Do I need to do this before I arrive or can I do it at the reservoir?
A. We strongly encourage completing your Online Pre-Check In as soon as you have booked. Please note that the mobile phone reception can be patchy at the reservoir making it difficult to complete your form. This can delay your hire. Here's some more info about our eco-friendly online system and a direct link to help you complete yours...
Online Pre-Check In
Please note in the interest of safety it is vitally important that all persons pre-book their session and those who will be onboard our kayaks complete a Pre-Check In as soon as possible after making a booking request . Accurate weights and information must be provided.
This is for insurance, water safety and to help us plan for your day.
We care for the environment and do not use paper forms so please ensure you complete your check-in in good time and on-line
A Pre-Check In MUST be completed for ALL child passengers.
KAYAKING...
To ensure your kayak hire goes without a hitch please be aware of the following:
Due to reservoir access restrictions we do not operate during days of Total Fire Ban or days where reservoirs have been closed by SA Water for other operational reasons. To avoid disappointment we advise checking ahead via SA Water and/or CFS website.
We will always aim to reschedule or refund the equipment hire cost in these circumstances but also recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover any additional out of pocket expenses that may occur as a result.
You must comply with all rules and regulations regarding reservoir use as stipulated by SA Water and Government of South Australia.
Testimonials
"We had an excellent afternoon on Sunday...a lovely afternoon exploring the reservoir. Will definitely be going back."
D. Schumacher
"We had a great day out and would thoroughly recommend Barossa Kayak Hire if you're looking for something fun to do on the weekend. What gorgeous scenery and super helpful and friendly people."
"We had a fabulous time!"
E. Barnett
A. Robb
USEFUL LINKS
Fire Danger Ratings
https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/home.jsp
Information about Local Reservoirs
https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/
https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/reservoirs/warren
https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/reservoirs/southpara
https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/reservoirs/barossa
Information about Fishing
https://pir.sa.gov.au/fishing/recreational_fishing/reservoir_fishing
https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/activities/fishing