Sweden’s coastal town of Uddevalla makes a perfect base for exploring the western archipelago by paddle. The protected waters here are ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers, with well-marked routes and reliable outfitters.
The two standout tours are perfect for nature lovers: The Paddle With Seals excursion gets you remarkably close to harbor seal colonies, while the Sea Kayak Delight meanders through pristine nature reserves with abundant birdlife.
For independent paddlers, the self-guided routes offer a great mix – choose between the gentler southern waters or the more challenging northern archipelago.
Those wanting to build skills should consider the Ripple Intermediate course, which covers essential techniques in a safe, structured setting.
Let’s look at our favorite kayaking experiences in Uddevalla.
Key Points
- The Ripple Intermediate Kayak Course offers expert-supervised training in essential paddling skills and deep water rescues for paddlers beyond the beginner stage.
- The Paddle With Seals Experience provides a small group tour to spot harbor seals and seabirds in the Havstensfjord, including a Swedish-style lunch and fika.
- The Self Guided Kayak Tour – Southern Route offers a 3- to 7-day coastal adventure through the lush inner archipelago with camping options for an immersive outdoor experience.
- The Self Guided Kayak Tour – Northern Route is suitable for those with previous sea kayaking experience, providing a 3- to 7-day adventure through the rugged archipelago with over 8,000 islands.
- The Sea Kayak Delight in Nature Reserves tour offers an 8-hour experience through calm, sheltered waters, suitable for all skill levels with opportunities to spot sea birds and learn basic kayaking skills.
West Sweden: Ripple – Intermediate Kayak Course
The Ripple – Intermediate Kayak Course in West Sweden is designed for paddlers who’ve moved beyond the beginner stage. The 8-hour course focuses on enhancing paddling control for safer and more enjoyable experiences on the water.
Participants will learn and practice essential skills like forward and backward paddling, stopping, turning, steering, and balance techniques. The course also includes expert-supervised training in deep water rescues.
Priced from $171.73 per person, the course is limited to 8 participants and provides all necessary equipment, including kayak, paddle, and safety gear. Instruction is available in both English and Swedish.
Upon completion, you will be prepared for the EPP Green Paddle Pass Certification.
The course aims to help paddlers develop proper techniques to avoid fatigue and injuries, gain capabilities for longer distances and more challenging conditions, and experience various rescue methods.
With its practical approach and expert guidance, the Ripple – Intermediate Kayak Course is an excellent way for intermediate kayakers to enhance their skills and confidence on the water.
Read our full review: West Sweden: Ripple – Intermediate Kayak Course Review
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West Sweden: Paddle With Seals
Beneath the towering cliffs of Orust Island, paddlers embark on an intimate encounter with West Sweden’s vibrant marine life during the Paddle With Seals experience.
This 8-hour small group tour, limited to just 8 participants, allows adventurers to spot harbor seals and a variety of seabirds as they glide across the calm waters of Havstensfjord.
Outfitted with all necessary paddling gear, guests will explore this protected inlet, which is sheltered from westerly winds.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy a Swedish-style lunch and fika (coffee break) on a picturesque island, keeping an eye out for the elusive white-tailed sea eagle.
With instruction provided in both Swedish and English, this is an ideal outing for nature enthusiasts of all skill levels.
And with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, there’s no risk in reserving this exceptional kayaking excursion.
Read our full review: West Sweden: Paddle With Seals Review
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West Sweden: Self Guided Kayak Tour – Southern Route
Paddlers embarking on West Sweden’s self-guided sea kayak tour along the southern route can expect a captivating coastal adventure.
This 3- to 7-day excursion allows them to explore the region’s lush inner archipelago before transitioning to the rugged outer islands. Along the way, they’ll paddle past steep rock walls, sandy beaches, and charming fishing communities.
The tour’s price starts at $253.07 per person and includes all necessary paddling gear, a map package, and a thorough briefing.
Campers can rent a full camping package or just a sleeping bag set. The trip offers options for paddling in relatively protected waters during windy conditions, allowing participants to spot harbor seals, various birds, and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the sea.
With the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this self-guided kayak tour is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of West Sweden’s southern coast.
Read our full review: West Sweden: Self Guided Kayak Tour – Southern Route Review
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West Sweden: Self Guided Kayak Tour – Northern Route
Embarking on the northern route of West Sweden’s self-guided sea kayak tour, paddlers will encounter a rugged archipelago sculpted by the last ice age.
This 3-7 day adventure features a string of over 8,000 islands, offering a less weather-protected experience suitable for those with previous sea kayaking experience.
Along the way, visitors will paddle past charming fishing communities, spotting diverse bird and marine life, including the region’s signature harbor seals.
The tour includes all necessary paddling equipment, a map package, and transportation to and from the launch spot.
Optional camping and sleeping bag packages are available for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience.
With the freedom to explore at their own pace, paddlers can savor spectacular sunsets, cook outdoor meals with scenic views, and truly connect with the stunning natural landscapes of northern West Sweden.
This self-guided kayak tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the rugged beauty of the region.
Read our full review: West Sweden: Self Guided Kayak Tour – Northern Route Review
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West Sweden: Sea Kayak Delight in Nature Reserves
Amidst the serene waters of West Sweden’s nature reserves, adventurers can discover a delightful sea kayaking experience. This 8-hour tour takes participants on a journey through the classic West coast waters, with a group size limited to 8 people.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the calm, sheltered waters are ideal for all skill levels. The tour includes spotting various sea birds and learning basic kayaking skills from the knowledgeable guides.
Participants will also enjoy a lunch and traditional Swedish “fika” on the charming island of Bassholmen, which boasts bird sanctuaries and historic buildings. With no prior kayaking experience required, as long as you can swim and are at least 15 years old, this tour offers an opportunity to learn about the stunning natural beauty of West Sweden.
The tour is priced from €138.07 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customer reviews have been consistently positive, making this sea kayak delight a must-try for nature enthusiasts.
Read our full review: West Sweden: Sea Kayak Delight in Nature Reserves Review
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Recap
Uddevalla offers a range of excellent canoe and kayak experiences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an intermediate course, or an adventurer seeking to spot seals, there are self-guided tours to explore the stunning southern and northern routes. For nature enthusiasts, the sea kayak tours in the region’s reserves provide a chance to learn about the serene and picturesque landscape.