Half-Day Boat Hire

Explore the scenic Thames with a half day canoe or kayak hire from Reading Marine Services Boatyard. Your adventure begins and ends at the boathouse, where friendly staff provide a full safety briefing and equip you with paddles, buoyancy aids, and dry bags. Once on the water, enjoy peaceful stretches of river, observing abundant wildlife including herons, kingfishers, red kites, and if lucky, an otter. Stop along the way at quiet spots such as Purley Beach for a paddle break or picnic, and explore charming riverside destinations like Mapledurham or Caversham.

Downstream, enjoy views of local rowing clubs, congregating swans, and occasional black swans, with opportunities to see leisure and charter boats passing by. Paddle past Fry’s Island and modern footbridges, and finish near riverside parks where refreshments are available. This half day experience offers a perfect combination of gentle exercise, wildlife spotting, and riverside sightseeing, making it suitable for families, friends, and beginners seeking a relaxing outdoor adventure on the Thames.