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

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.
Our Lifejackets may not be suitable for some persons with physical disabilities. Please discuss your needs prior to booking.
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.
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.

"Maximum weight allowed?"

Q. Please can you tell me the weight capacities for your kayaks.

A. Here's some important info...

Maximum passenger weights:

Single kayak - individual passenger 120kgs max.
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 Check In Form? Do I need to do this before I arrive or can I do it at the reservoir?

A. We strongly encourage completing your Check In Form (including waiver) before you arrive to avoid any delays beginning your nature experience. You can print out your form here and bring it along on the day. If you have any medical or health considerations that may affect your experience please get in touch before you book.

Print out and bring your Check In Form

PLEASE NOTE in the interest of safety it is vital that all sessions are pre-booked.
ALL PERSONS including children MUST have a completed Check In Form .
PLEASE REMEMBER - Ensure you complete your check-in in good time and to avoid delays on the booking day.

"Where are you located?"

Q. Whereabouts is Barossa Outdoors?

A. Once you have pre-booked you'll find us on the bank of Warren Reservoir with your kayaks and equipment set up. Click on the Google Maps button for directions. Alternatively, the address in Second Car Park, Warren Road, Mount Crawford, South Australia. Look for the red KAYAK HIRE flags at the entry. We also operate in other locations for e-biking and hiking but we'll contact you beforehand with those directions.

"Another question?"

Q. I have another question not listed here.

A. No worries. Just send us an email or give us a call on +61 499 500 604

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