Public sailing regulations
To ensure a safe, respectful, and responsible experience on the water, there are clear rules for canoeing. This page provides an overview of the rules you need to know before setting out in a canoe. By following these rules, you show consideration for nature, other paddlers, and yourself—and you’ll avoid fines and misunderstandings.
Read the rules carefully so that you can paddle 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 that you store a change of clothes, cell phones, and other electronics in a waterproof bag or container while paddling. Even in calm weather, water can get into the canoe, and waterproof storage protects your belongings from moisture and accidents.
Place the bag securely in the canoe so it doesn’t slide around while you’re paddling. With waterproof storage, you’ll paddle with greater peace of mind and avoid unnecessary damage to your clothes 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 canoe’s stability and make paddling more challenging, especially on open stretches. Rain and cooler temperatures also place greater demands on your clothing and preparation.
During periods of heavy rain, water levels can change, and the current in the stream can become stronger. In sections with low water levels, the current can be particularly strong, requiring extra attention and good control of the canoe.
Before setting out, you should always check the weather forecast and assess the conditions on the day of your trip. In the event of strong winds, thunderstorms, heavy rain, or strong currents, we recommend that you exercise extra caution or consider postponing your trip. Calm weather and stable conditions provide the best conditions for a pleasant and safe canoe trip.
Always adjust your pace and route to the conditions, and keep an eye on changes in weather and water conditions along the way so you can react in plenty of time.