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On the water
Kayak and paddleboard hire on Loch Lomond
Explore the loch's shoreline and its hidden bays from our family farm.
Where can I hire a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard on Loch Lomond? At Portnellan Farm, near Gartocharn. We hire single and double sit-on-top kayaks and inflatable paddleboards from our own shore. Kayaks and boards start at £30 for 1 hour. To book, use the form below or phone Chris on 07749 040660.
Out on the water
Getting out on the water on a summer's day is one of the best ways to relax, unwind and reconnect with nature.
Take a picnic to an island and lie on the beach. Explore the islands, learn about their history and spot the wildlife that lives there.
If you feel adventurous, a paddle to the pub on Inchmurrin Island will work up an appetite.
Hire prices 2026
| Time | Single kayak | Double kayak |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | £30 | £35 |
| 2 hours | £45 | £55 |
| 4 hours | £65 | £75 |
| Full day | £85 | £95 |
| Time | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | £30.00 |
| 2 hours | £40.00 |
| 4 hours | £60.00 |
| Full day | £80.00 |
Opening hours
We hire kayaks and paddleboards 7 days a week. From May to August hire is from 10am to 8pm. For the rest of the year it is from 10am to 6pm.
Important notes
- Wetsuit hire is available at £6 per wetsuit.
- Paddleboard hire depends on suitable wind conditions.
- The minimum age for paddleboarding is 10 years. Under-18s must be accompanied by a participating adult.
- We advise booking in advance.
The kayaks
Our sit-on-top kayaks suit beginners and more experienced paddlers. The open deck makes them very safe, with no danger of getting stuck if you capsize.
The kayaks have drain holes in the bottom to let splashes drain out. That means you are likely to get wet.
The paddleboards
Stand-up paddleboarding began in Hawaii as an offshoot of traditional surfing. Our boards are high quality inflatable paddleboards, like large inflatable surfboards. The rider stands or kneels, depending on ability.
The boards suit beginners and more advanced paddlers. We have a range of sizes to suit different levels of experience and size of rider. They are fairly broad, so they stay very stable even if the wind picks up.
If you are new to paddleboarding, the water just off the farm is a great place to learn. The small island near the pier gives shelter from the wind, so you can find your balance.
Safety on the water
Your safety is our top priority. Everyone has a shore-based safety briefing before going out on the loch. Paddleboarders also get a demonstration.
- We provide a buoyancy aid. You must wear it at all times on the water.
- At least one member of the group must carry a mobile phone. For kayaks, we have a selection of dry bags. We recommend bringing your own if you have one.
- If you are new, stay close to the shore. The bay in front of the farm is a safe place to practise.
- We hire out kayaks and boards only when the weather allows.
- The kayak weight limit is 110 kilograms for a single and 220 kilograms for a double.
- For paddleboarding we always advise wearing a wetsuit, especially early in the season (April and May).
Where to go
Loch Lomond is 23 miles long and has over 30 islands, so there is plenty to explore.
By kayak
Beginners. An hour or possibly 2 will probably be enough. We suggest sticking to the shoreline. It is fairly wild and sparsely populated along the southern edge of the loch. Heading east, you pass the historic Manor House of Ross Priory. Heading west, you pass untamed woodland where you will often spot deer and other wildlife.
If you have kayaked before. The most popular option is a paddle out to Inchmurrin Island. It takes about 30 minutes. The beach at the eastern end is beautiful and an ideal spot for a picnic. A short walk up the hill rewards you with panoramic views.
Half day or full day. Island hopping suits those with a little more experience and fitness. The islands of Inchmurrin, Creinch, Torrinch and Inchcailloch lie on the Highland Boundary Fault line, all within striking distance of Portnellan. Inchmurrin has its own restaurant if you want a pub lunch. Depending on the weather, about an hour's paddling gets you there. Inchcailloch has a wonderful sheltered beach and picturesque walks through ancient oak woodland.
By paddleboard
Heading east past Ross Priory you reach the Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve. You also pass a small island that people believe was a crannog (an ancient island dwelling).
The 2 small islands just off the farm make a fun circuit for a short paddle. Look out for geese, goldeneye and mallard ducks, roe deer, whooper swans and maybe even our resident osprey fishing in the bay.
More experienced riders may want to head for the beach on Inchmurrin Island with a picnic. A short walk up the island rewards you with spectacular views into the Highlands. Allow an hour's paddling to reach the island.
What to bring
You will almost certainly get wet, so wear old clothes. Shorts, leggings or swimwear are ideal. A warm, waterproof jacket is a good idea even if you do not use it.
Bring water shoes if you have them. An old pair of trainers works just as well. We have a selection of wetsuits to hire if the water is cold. A towel and a change of clothes for afterwards are essential. We have basic changing facilities on the beach.
Bookings and enquiries
More from Portnellan
Questions and answers
- How much does kayak and paddleboard hire cost?
- The 2026 prices are for 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours and a full day. A single kayak is £30, £45, £65 and £85, in that order. A double kayak is £35, £55, £75 and £95. A paddleboard is £30, £40, £60 and £80.
- How do I book?
- Send a booking request on this page or phone Chris on 07749 040660. We advise booking in advance.
- When are you open?
- We hire kayaks and paddleboards 7 days a week. From May to August hire is from 10am to 8pm. For the rest of the year it is from 10am to 6pm.
- Is there a minimum age?
- The minimum age for paddleboarding is 10 years. Under-18s must be accompanied by a participating adult.
- Can I hire a wetsuit?
- Yes. Wetsuit hire is available at £6 per wetsuit.
- Does the weather affect paddleboard hire?
- Paddleboard hire depends on suitable wind conditions.