Take control of your own motorboat along the scenic River Medway with River Medway Canoes. From Teston Lock to Hamstead Lock, enjoy flexible hire options with safety and expert guidance included.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–6 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical ability needed to handle boat controls and navigate locks
Wildlife
History
Teston Lock dates back to the 18th century and remains a working lock preserving traditional river navigation methods.
Conservation
River Medway Canoes follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact, supporting ongoing riverbank habitat preservation.
River Medway Canoes
Take control of your own motorboat along the scenic River Medway with River Medway Canoes. From Teston Lock to Hamstead Lock, enjoy flexible hire options with safety and expert guidance included.
River Medway Canoes is a Wateringbury-based river hire operator offering canoeing and self-drive motorboat experiences on the River Medway. Located in Wateringbury, England, the business provides a six-hour kayak hire that covers approximately 16 miles of scenic countryside and a self-drive motorboat hire option along the stretch between Teston Lock and Hamstead Lock.
Both hire options include a full safety briefing before departure. Motorboat hires include a handling assessment to confirm confident and safe operation of the craft. The kayak hire uses stable kayaks suited to beginners and nature observers, providing a comfortable platform for paddling and wildlife viewing. The kayak route highlights local fauna such as Kingfishers and Otters, making the trip appealing for those interested in river wildlife.
Bookings are organised by hire type and duration to fit different schedules and experience levels. The operation focuses on clear safety instruction, reliable equipment, and straightforward launching procedures from the Wateringbury area. River Medway Canoes serves visitors seeking day trips on the Medway with simple, well-defined hire options: a long 6-hour kayak route of around 16 miles, and flexible self-drive motorboat hires from one to six hours between Teston Lock and Hamstead Lock. The emphasis is on safety briefings, handling assessments for motorboats, and enabling enjoyable time on the water.
Location
Wateringbury, England
Base on the River Medway
Hire Durations
1–6 hours
Flexible options for all hires
Kayak Route
16 miles
Long 6-hour kayak journey
Safety First
Briefings included
Briefings and handling assessments included
Choose a 6-hour kayak journey or a 1–6 hour self-drive motorboat hire and enjoy a guided safety briefing before launch.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to be at the launch site 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to complete the safety briefing and handling assessment.
No Alcohol or Fishing Gear
Alcohol consumption and fishing equipment are prohibited on board to ensure safety and a serene environment.
Max 6 People per Boat
Boats can hold up to six occupants—including the driver and children aged 3 and older—for comfort and safety.
Follow Lock Procedures
When passing through Teston and East Farleigh Locks (available on hires 4+ hours), follow lock gate rules carefully and ask staff for guidance if unsure.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against spring rain and wind during your time on the river.
spring
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water and improves visibility on bright days.
summer
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust warmth as autumn temperatures fluctuate.
fall
Warm Hat and Gloves
Keeps you comfortable during chilly winter boating sessions.
winter