Public sailing regulations
To ensure a safe, respectful and responsible experience on the water, there are clear rules for canoeing. This page gives you an overview of the rules you need to know before you set out in your canoe. By following the rules, you’ll be respectful of nature, other boaters and yourself – and you’ll avoid fines and misunderstandings.
Read the rules carefully to ensure you sail correctly and safely throughout your trip.
Life jackets
It is mandatory by law to carry life jackets in the canoe. There must be a life jacket for each person on board. Remember to order vests with your canoe if you do not bring your own life jackets.
Storage for a change of clothes and electronics
We recommend storing a change of clothes, cell phones and other electronics in a waterproof bag or container while sailing. Even in calm weather, water can get into your canoe and waterproof storage protects your belongings from moisture and accidents.
Place the bag securely in the canoe to prevent it from sliding around while sailing. With waterproof storage, you’ll sail safer and avoid unnecessary damage to clothing and electronics.
How to dress
It’s important to be properly dressed when canoeing. Your clothing should allow you good mobility, but also keep you warm and protect you from wind and weather. We therefore recommend dressing in layers – it’s easier to adjust to the weather situation. Even if the weather is good, it’s also important to wear good footwear that can withstand getting wet. We also recommend always bringing a sun hat, cap, sunscreen and drinking water.
Misfortune
In case of an accident, always contact the police first and inform them of your location as best you can. Therefore, always carry a fully charged cell phone in the canoe in case of an accident. We recommend that you download Denmark’s official 112 app. Via the app you can call the emergency services and send your GPS signal at the same time (the app is free). Mobile, wallet and other valuables can be packed in a waterproof drybag. In case of illness on board, call the emergency medical service on tel. 70 11 07 07 07. Your life is always the most important thing. In the event of capsizing, make sure you get ashore as soon as possible. Salvage of equipment has second priority.
Weather, wind and conditions
Weather and wind play an important role in your canoeing experience. Wind can affect the stability of the canoe and make traveling more demanding, especially on open stretches. Rain and cooler temperatures also place greater demands on clothing and preparation.
During periods of heavy rain, the water level can change and the current in the river can become stronger. On passages with low water levels, the current can be particularly strong, requiring extra attention and good control of the canoe.
Before setting off, you should always check the weather forecast and assess the conditions on the day. In case of strong winds, thunder, heavy rain or strong currents, we recommend that you exercise extra caution or consider postponing the trip. Calm weather and stable conditions provide the best conditions for a comfortable and safe canoe trip.
Always adapt your pace and route to the conditions and keep an eye out for changes in weather and water conditions along the way so you can react in good time.