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Paddle your own katakanu on Scotland’s iconic Loch Lomond from Loch Lomond Leisure in Balloch. Stable, spacious, and safe, it’s the perfect way to take on the loch at your own pace.
Paddle your own katakanu on Scotland’s iconic Loch Lomond from Loch Lomond Leisure in Balloch. Stable, spacious, and safe, it’s the perfect way to take on the loch at your own pace.
Book with Loch Lomond Leisure
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Loch Lomond Leisure · Balloch, Scotland
Loch Lomond, stretching over 23 miles and revered as Scotland’s largest freshwater loch, provides a breathtaking playground for watercraft enthusiasts. At the heart of this natural jewel is Loch Lomond Leisure, operating out of Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch. This company offers a distinct paddling experience: katakanu hire. A katakanu, an innovative craft that merges two canoes side-by-side, offers superior stability and space, making it accessible for families, groups, and solo adventurers alike.
Loch Lomond Shores merges natural beauty with visitor-friendly amenities, and setting off from here means paddling through an environment rich with rugged hills, shimmering waters, and the occasional glimmer of local wildlife such as ospreys or red squirrels. The lake’s glacial origins are evident in its deep basins and imposing peaks like Ben Lomond, which stands sentinel on the eastern shore.
Hiring a katakanu from Loch Lomond Leisure comes complete with safety training and all necessary gear, giving paddlers the confidence to navigate the loch independently. Unlike traditional kayaks or canoes, the katakanu’s design allows for a more social and steady ride, ideal for everything from gentle sightseeing to longer, self-paced journeys across the loch.
This spot is exceptional given its blend of accessibility and immersion in nature. Whether you’re passing islands blanketed with native woodland or skimming tranquil bays, the experience is grounded in freedom and responsibility. Loch Lomond Leisure’s well-maintained equipment and knowledgeable staff make this a standout adventure in the Scottish outdoor recreation landscape, especially for those eager to connect with the loch without the need for extensive paddling experience.
Ideal for all ages and fitness levels, this unique watercraft hire encourages thoughtful, safe engagement with Scotland’s wild heart. It’s a chance to paddle at your own rhythm amidst one of the UK’s most stunning freshwater environments.
easy.
1–8 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal prior experience required
The minimum age is 3 years old, with all minors requiring supervision by an adult.
No experience is needed; staff provide a thorough safety briefing and basic training.
Yes, wetsuits are available for hire at an additional cost of £5 per person, though not compulsory.
Each katakanu can accommodate up to 6 people comfortably.
You are encouraged to check conditions beforehand; if unsafe, staff will advise on rescheduling or refunds.
Hire options range from 1 hour to as long as 72 hours (3 days), with different rates applied.
Loch Lomond was designated part of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park in 2002, highlighting its natural and cultural significance.
Loch Lomond Leisure emphasizes environmentally responsible practices, urging paddlers to minimize disturbance to wildlife and pack out all waste.
Loch Lomond Leisure operates from Balloch (Loch Lomond Shores) with activities also based at Luss Activity Hub and Luss Beach. The business offers a broad selection of hire options including mountain bikes with child and toddler trailer attachments, paddleboards (including giant SUPs for groups), canoes, kayaks, rowing boats, pedal boats, katakanus and self-drive motorboats for up to four people. Safety is an integral part of every hire: customers receive safety briefings, helmets and relevant safety gear for cycling and water activities. Trained staff provide personalized guidance for canoe and paddleboard hires and conduct brief inductions for self-drive motorboats. Several hires explicitly allow dogs, making many options suitable for pet owners. Hire durations range from short periods to extended multi-day options for mountain bikes, with choices such as 2 hour, 4 hour, 8 hour, half day, full day and multi-day hires (16, 24, 48 and 72 hours). Motorboat hires are available year-round after a brief safety induction. Loch Lomond Leisure caters to families, friends and corporate groups seeking outdoor experiences on Loch Lomond. The business provides flexible hire choices across two convenient locations on the loch, combining scenic access with practical equipment and on-site support.
Book with Loch Lomond Leisure