KAYAK on the Ubaye river
In a kayak, you're in control — solo or in tandem if you dare share the adventure. An autonomous inflatable craft, double paddle, and the Ubaye rapids all to yourselves. A whole new way to experience the river.
Whitewater at the tip of your paddle
In a raft, you navigate as a crew of 6 under the guide's direction. On your kayak, you're autonomous : the guide paddles alongside on their own kayak, accompanies you, adjusts your lines and guides you through the rapids — but you're the one holding the paddle and making the calls.
The inflatable kayak we use — open deck, self-draining, unsinkable — offers manoeuvrability comparable to a rigid kayak, with added flexibility. You propel and steer it from a seated position, using a double paddle (one blade on each side) — it really is kayaking.
In tandem, roles split naturally : the engine at the front brings the power and the rudder at the back steers the craft. A real dynamic to master together, requiring communication and cooperation. If paddling as a duo starts generating tension rather than complicity mid-run, your guide has more than one trick up their paddle to reorganise the fleet.
You arrive at La base du Martinet where we'll welcome you. Each session lasts 3 hours in total — welcome, kit-up, shuttle, briefing, paddling and return. We take time to share the fundamental techniques : reading the water, managing rapids, finding your position in the current. You leave with real skills.
Routes and difficulty levels
As with rafting, we adapt the route to your level. Your guide starts by having you paddle an accessible section, sharing the fundamentals — reading currents, positioning, paddle technique. If your group shows strong ability, they may suggest booking a slot on a more challenging route at the end of the session.
Inflatable kayaks reach their limits on the most demanding rapids (class IV-V at high flow). To push your technique further, the next step is packraft ! To try a rigid kayak, your best option is to find an FFCK club near you.
Our offers and pricing
Minimum age : 11-12 years depending on conditions of the day.
2 adults + 2 children.
Extra member : €50 / adult or €45 / child.
Over 12, contact us for a tailored quote — lunch available (BBQ at the base or at Na !Déj').
2 à 6 personnes
1 à 2 personnes
Everything you need to know about the activity
Practical info
- Total duration : 3h
- Sessions : 9am–noon, 1pm–4pm, 4pm–7pm
- Solo (single) or tandem (double)
Requirements
- Be at least 11-12 years old
- Be able to swim 25 m and submerge
In 3 hours, we don't just skim the river — we read it. Your guide teaches you to anticipate rapids, correct your line, and take waves at the right angle. You genuinely improve.
Provided gear
- Thermal clothing : neoprene wetsuit (1 or 2 pieces) + neoprene booties
- Safety gear : buoyancy aid + helmet
- Navigation gear : inflatable kayak + double paddle
What to bring
- 🩱 Swimsuit (worn underneath)
- 🥾 Closed-toe shoes — mandatory for safety
- 🤓 Glasses (if essential)
- 🧺 Towel (to change after the run)
Any doubts or questions : 📞 Give us a call !
Special conditions
- Minimum age : 11-12 years depending on conditions and the guide's assessment.
- Maximum age : None — what matters is your motivation and general physical condition.
Paddling a kayak requires staying seated to paddle, and getting back into your kayak or swimming to shore on your own in case of capsize.
- Joint weaknesses : ankles, knees, hips, spine, shoulders, elbows, wrists.
- Cardiovascular or respiratory risks or conditions, diabetes or any other condition that may affect physical activity.
Please inform us as early as possible — an adaptation is often possible.
When to come ?
Cold water, high flow — the rapids are lively and demanding. The favourite period for thrill-seekers. For beginners, rafting remains the best-suited craft for high spring flows.
Moderate flow, technical rapids — the peak season for kayaking. Conditions are excellent for learning to read the water and progressing at your own pace. The ideal period for families or couples.
Water levels vary with rainfall, fewer visitors — a great time for a relaxed, focused run. A good period for building technical skills in a wilder setting.
Below a certain flow level (variable periods depending on the year), we may advise against this activity — the water level in the Ubaye river’s main channel drops too low, making some sections less comfortable and increasing the sensation of rocks beneath.
Ready to grab your paddles ?
Solo, tandem or in a group — your guide adapts the session to your level and the day’s conditions. Three hours on the Ubaye river to learn to read the water, find your position, feel the river — safely.