Klaipeda, Lithuania’s charming port city, offers much more than its maritime charm. For those who enjoy exploring by water, Klaipeda is a treasure trove of canoe and kayak experiences that let you see the city and its surroundings from an entirely different perspective. Whether you’re seeking a quiet night paddle through the canals, an intense day in UNESCO-listed landscapes, or a birdwatching adventure in the delta, Klaipeda’s water routes won’t disappoint. We particularly like the Night Canoe City Tour because it combines intimacy, history, and peaceful nighttime scenery, giving you a chance to see Klaipeda away from the daytime crowds. To read more about this experience, visit here.
If you’re craving a longer, more immersive trip, the MIGHTY SANDS – Premium guided canoe tour at Curonian spit National Park offers an unforgettable full-day journey, complete with wildlife, dunes, and a homemade picnic. For bird lovers, the BIRDWATCH – Premium guided canoe tour at Cape Vente provides a rare chance to see 170 bird species in their natural habitat with expert guidance. Many of these tours emphasize small group sizes, ensuring a personal experience, and all give you a chance to explore Klaipeda’s beautiful natural surroundings by water.
Below, you’ll find ten of the best canoe and kayak experiences in Klaipeda, each with its own unique appeal. From short city tours to full-day wildlife safaris, there’s something to fit every interest and schedule.
1. Night Canoe City Tour in Klaipeda
At number 1 on our list, the Night Canoe City Tour in Klaipeda offers a peaceful, intimate way to explore the city’s waterways after dark. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quiet, atmospheric experience that avoids the daytime crowds. The tour lasts around 1 to 2 hours, during which you paddle a handcrafted cedar strip canoe with a traditional wooden paddle. Your guide shares stories and insights about Klaipeda’s history as you glide through its canals, with highlights like passing under historic bridges, viewing the old town fountain, and stopping at Jono Kalnelis, which features the old Memel fortifications.
What makes this trip special is its small group size—max nine participants—ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience. Guests praise the gentle instruction and the magical atmosphere of paddling under the moonlight. One reviewer noted, “Janis made us feel at ease even when we were out of our comfort zone,” which sums up the inclusive, friendly vibe. This tour is ideal if you want a short, memorable outing that combines culture, history, and nature. Bottom line: a relaxing, high-quality introduction to Klaipeda from the water, perfect for a romantic evening or a peaceful intro to Lithuanian waterways.
2. MIGHTY SANDS – Premium guided canoe tour at Curonian spit National Park
Number 2 on our list is the MIGHTY SANDS tour, which takes you into the UNESCO World Heritage site of Curonian Spit. Over 6 to 8 hours, you’ll explore migrating dunes, traditional fishing villages, and the iconic Pervalka Lighthouse. This full-day adventure is a chance to experience the park’s stunning landscape from the water, paddling cedar canoes as your guide shares stories about the area’s geology and ecology.
What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of a gourmet picnic on the shore, making it more than just a paddle—it’s a full immersion in nature and local life. All equipment, fees, transfers, and lunch are included, making it convenient for travelers who want a hassle-free experience. Reviews highlight the high quality of the cedar canoes and the knowledgeable guide who explains the area’s natural features. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy physical activity and want to see a UNESCO site from a unique vantage point. Bottom line: a comprehensive, scenic, and relaxing day in one of Lithuania’s most famous landscapes.
3. BIRDWATCH – Premium guided canoe tour at Cape Vente, Nemunas Delta Regional Park
Number 3 is the Birdwatch tour, which is perfect for nature lovers eager to see Lithuania’s diverse birdlife. Over approximately nine hours, you’ll paddle in a small group (max eight) through the Nemunas River Delta, home to 170 bird species including eagles, herons, and grebes. The trip includes visits to the Cape Vente ornithological station and a lighthouse, with opportunities to observe nesting sites and bird colonies up close.
This tour is highly praised for its expert guides, who share detailed knowledge about the bird species and ecosystem. Reviewers mention the “wonderful experience” and the thrill of seeing over 50 different bird species, which makes this ideal for adventurous birders or wildlife photographers. The round-trip hotel transfers make it convenient and stress-free. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day immersed in natural wildlife, with a focus on birdwatching and eco-awareness. Bottom line: a rare chance to witness Lithuania’s bird diversity from the water with expert guidance.
4. Cedar canoe tour in Klaipeda – ideal for Cruise Ship travelers
Number 4 is the Cedar canoe tour in Klaipeda, tailored for cruise visitors. This 2 to 3-hour paddle takes you along the Dane River, offering a different perspective on Klaipeda’s historic and industrial areas. You’ll paddle handcrafted cedar strip canoes past old Memel fortifications and get close to the Meridianas ship, built in 1948, which is a highlight for maritime enthusiasts.
The tour’s strength lies in its balance of history and nature, with guides sharing insights about Klaipeda’s past as a Baltic trading hub. Reviewers rave about the craftsmanship of the canoes and the professionalism of the guides, who teach paddling techniques and ensure everyone’s safety. The short duration makes it perfect for cruise passengers looking for a quick yet meaningful outing. It’s best suited for those wanting a hands-on, culturally rich water experience without committing a whole day. Bottom line: a compact but immersive way to explore Klaipeda’s waterfront and history, ideal for cruise travelers.
5. Handcrafted Canoe Tour of Klaipeda
At number 5, the Handcrafted Canoe Tour offers a local, artisanal approach to exploring Klaipeda. This 2-hour tour focuses on paddling a real cedar strip canoe through the city’s industrial district, old fortifications, and near the Meridianas sailing ship, giving a different view of Klaipeda’s maritime history.
What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on local craftsmanship, with the canoes built by a state-certified guide. The tour is flexible, with different pickup points, and includes detailed explanations of Klaipeda’s defenses and maritime past. Reviewers appreciate the personal attention and the chance to see the city from a quiet water route. It’s ideal for those with limited time who want a hands-on, authentic experience that combines history and nature. Bottom line: a compact, craft-focused paddle that highlights Klaipeda’s unique maritime character.
6. Guided Canoe Tour of the Curonian Spit Lithuania
Number 6 is the Guided Canoe Tour of the Curonian Spit, offering a 5-hour trip through one of Lithuania’s most dramatic landscapes. Paddling a cedar strip canoe, you’ll explore migrating dunes, stop at the Pervalka lighthouse, and enjoy a gourmet picnic on the beach.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of impressive natural scenery and the opportunity to relax with a gourmet picnic—an unexpected treat in a natural setting. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, providing insights into the ecological significance of the dunes and wetlands. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive half-day adventure with the comfort of a picnic and the thrill of wilderness exploration. Reviewers mention the scenic stops and the high-quality equipment. Bottom line: a scenic, leisurely paddle ideal for nature lovers seeking both adventure and comfort.
7. Klaipeda: Evening Guided Tour by Wooden Canoe
Number 7 is the Evening Guided Tour by Wooden Canoe, which offers an atmospheric paddle through Klaipeda’s waterways at sunset or after dark. It’s a 1.5-hour tour that takes you along the river embankments, passing historic sites such as the old town and the ship-museum “Süduvis.”
This trip is perfect for those who want to experience Klaipeda from a different angle and enjoy an evening paddle in a traditional wooden canoe. The guide offers a short safety briefing before you glide into the tranquil evening waters, experiencing the city’s lights and sounds from a peaceful vantage point. Reviewers highlight the serenity and the chance to see Klaipeda’s landmarks in a new light. Best suited for travelers wanting a short, atmospheric trip with some cultural insights. Bottom line: a relaxing, scenic way to enjoy Klaipeda’s waterways after hours.
8. Premium guided Canoe Tour in Lake Plateliai with Picnic
Number 8 on our list is the Premium guided Canoe Tour in Lake Plateliai, which takes you deep into Zemaitija National Park. Over 7 to 9 hours, you paddle in a handcrafted cedar canoe across Lithuania’s largest lake, surrounded by forests and scenic views. The tour includes a gourmet picnic on a remote island, making it a perfect full-day escape into nature.
The highlight is paddling in the deepest lake in the region, with options to admire the lush landscape and learn about local flora and fauna. The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention from your expert guide, who shares insights about the park’s ecosystem. The price reflects the quality of the craft, the inclusiveness of the meal, and the comprehensive experience. It’s best for active travelers wanting a full-day adventure with plenty of scenic paddling. Bottom line: a comprehensive, scenic, and relaxing day in Zemaitija’s wilderness.
9. Untouched Sand Dunes – Guided canoe tour on UNESCO site
Number 9 offers the Untouched Sand Dunes, a 5-6 hour trip through the Nagliai Nature Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This guided tour takes you 9 km along the biggest dunes in Europe, which are closed to walking. You’ll paddle past bird colonies and observe wildlife like Sea Eagles with minimal disturbance.
This expedition combines natural beauty with wildlife watching in a protected area. The itinerary includes exploring the Red Man lighthouse, the Dead Dunes, and a picnic in the dunes, highlighting the untouched landscape. Reviewers note the opportunity to observe seabirds and the tranquil environment. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who love remote natural settings and want detailed ecological insights. Bottom line: a rare, wildlife-focused paddle through some of Europe’s most impressive dunes.
10. Žemaitija National Park: Full-Day Canoe Tour with Picnic
Finally, number 10 is the Žemaitija National Park Full-Day Canoe Tour. Spanning about seven hours, this trip paddles across Lake Plateliai with stops for a picnic on a scenic island and spectacular sunset views. You’ll paddle past lush forests, clear waters, and quiet islands, gaining a true sense of this remote national park.
This tour is recommended for those wanting a comprehensive day outdoors, combining physical activity with relaxation and natural beauty. The reviews praise the peaceful ambiance and the quality of the cedar canoes. It’s best suited for travelers with some paddling experience or those willing to enjoy a full day immersed in Lithuania’s natural landscape. Bottom line: a rewarding day in Zemaitija, perfect for nature lovers who want to maximize their outdoor time.
How to Choose Your Klaipeda Canoe & Kayak Experience
When selecting the right tour, consider your time availability, interest focus, and fitness level. Shorter options like the Night Canoe City Tour or Evening Guided Tour are perfect for a quick, atmospheric experience, ideal for couples or first-time visitors. Longer tours like the MIGHTY SANDS and Zemaitija trips give you deeper immersion, suitable for active travelers who want a full-day adventure or wildlife observation.
Budget-wise, expect to pay from around $51 for a short city or evening paddle to over $150 for full-day excursions with meals and equipment included. Book early, especially for popular full-day tours or those during peak season, to secure your spot. Always check whether the tour includes gear, transfers, and food—many do—and plan your packing accordingly.
Each experience offers something special—whether it’s Klaipeda’s city lights from the water, the wild dunes of the Curonian Spit, or the bird-rich delta. Think about what excites you most and match that with your schedule and physical comfort.
To sum it up, Klaipeda’s canoe and kayak scene offers an impressive variety for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a tranquil night glide through city canals, a full-day wildlife adventure, or a scenic paddle in a UNESCO site, you’ll find a tour that fits. For those looking for cultural insights combined with paddling, the Cedar Canoe Tour in Klaipeda or the Night City Tour are excellent choices. For nature lovers, the Curonian Spit tours and the Birdwatching trip are hard to beat. Finally, don’t forget to book early if you want to secure a spot on the most popular trips, especially in summer. Happy paddling!