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The River Spey for Kayakers

Paddle this classic Scottish River and have all of your equipment transported by open canoe
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Experience the raw beauty of Scotland on a 4-day kayak expedition down the River Spey. From the shadows of the Cairngorms to the dramatic Moray Firth coast, this journey combines thrilling whitewater, ancient pine forests, and world-class whisky distilleries.

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You paddle your own whitewater kayak (or hire one of ours) and all of the food and equipment is transported in our support canoe, leaving you free and unemcumbered to enjoy the river.

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Expedition Overview

The River Spey is Scotland's premier touring river. Fast-flowing but highly accessible, it offers the perfect mix of peaceful touring sections and exhilarating rapids, making it the definitive Scottish multi day river trip.

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  • Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

  • Distance: 85 Kilometres (approx. 54 miles)

  • Difficulty: Intermediate (Suitable for paddlers with basic moving water experience)

  • Accommodation: Wilderness riverbank camping

  • Fully Catered with Freshly Cooked Meals

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Scroll down for more info below in the FAQs ​​

FAQs

Where Do We Meet?

Depending on the bespoke logistics for your trip we'll either meet near Aviemore or Spey Bay.

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How long are the days?

That all depends on the conditions and how much progress we make as a group but we can expect to be journeying for around 6-8 hours per day. with regular stops for drinks, snacks and to stetch our legs. Longer days may be requie if conditions are not favourable but will always be by mutal agreement. It's a challenge yes but it should still be enjoyable.

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What Do You Provide?

A comprehensive information pack to help you prepare for the expedition will be sent to you upon booking. On the trip you'll get expert guiding tailored to the group and with emphasis on fun!. Along the way you'll get coaching tips designed to boost both your skills, confidence and enjoyment.

 

I Don't Have All Of My Own Equipment...

Dependent on your requirements you can rent some or all of the required equipment or you can bring your own and just take advantage of our expert knowledge and guidance. Hopefully this allows you complete flexibility with regard to cost.

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​How Much Experience Do I Need / Is This Suitable For Me?

The rapids are a maximum of grade 2 so although some whitewater experience is desirable with the right attitude this can be done by people with no prior camping experience. There is a degree of physicality required.​

 

Where Will We Stay?

This trip has a mixture of wild camping by the side of the water and trailblazer sites which have rudimentary facilities.

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What Sort of Facilities Are There?

Some of the campsites have toilets but the majority are wild, we'll need to be prepared for wild toiletting and will carry and filter water for drinking.

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What if the Weather is Bad?

The river is generally pretty sheltered from the wind and rain is a definite possibility. If we have any concerns about rising river levels we do have options to change location. A large group shelter will be provided for camp to keep everyone out of the worst of the weather.

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What About Getting Back To The Start Point?

We'll work together to make sure we have vehicles at both ends of the trip so everyone can get a lift back. This will be done in the morning of the first day or potentially the evening before.

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What Equipment Will I Need?

  • Your chosen Kayak with airbags fitted. 

  • Paddle 

  • Suitable warm and waterproof clothing for on the water

  • Buoyancy Aid

  • Helmet

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In Camp

  • Sleeping System (Tent, Hammock, Tarp or Bivvy Bag)

  • Sleeping Mat

  • Sleeping Bag

  • Travel Pillow

  • Complete change of clothes including shoes and waterproofs

  • Warm Hat & Gloves

  • Clothes to Sleep in

  • Battery Pack

  • Headtorch

  • Book or Cards

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