Kayak rental on the Leie in Kortrijk
📍 About the location
Book your kayak with Dobber at Buda Island, the creative and cultural heart of Kortrijk. An island in the Leie river surrounded by art, modern architecture, and ancient history. Depart with a solo or duo kayak from Reepkaai and paddle past the Budatoren, the Collegebrug, and the medieval Broeltorens. We are open daily, from April to October.
Also for groups and team-building events, Buda Island is a prime location in the heart of West Flanders. Prefer paddleboarding by the sea? Discover our location at the Yser in Nieuwpoort.
Goed om weten!
⚠️ Important!
🗺️ Paddle routes
🅿️ Practical info
Kayaking at the Broel Towers in Kortrijk
Kayaking in Kortrijk: discover the Leie at your own pace
Kayaking in Kortrijk is very different from kayaking in the Ardennes. Here, the Leie flows through the heart of the city – past Buda Island, the lowered Leie quays, and the medieval Broel Towers. Dobber is the only kayak rental in Kortrijk that allows you to go out on the water independently, without a reservation, club membership, or a guide. With a single or double kayak, whenever you want.
Two routes on the Leie
The Buda Island Loop is the shortest route – ideal for those discovering Kortrijk from the water for the first time. You paddle past the Buda Tower, the College Bridge, and the iconic Broel Towers, returning via the Kasteelbrug. An hour of paddling, a unique perspective on the city.
The longer route takes you further along the Leie quays towards Kortrijk Weide and the Rotersmeers nature reserve. Bustling city dynamics gradually give way to greenery and tranquility. 6 km on the Leie, good for 1.5 to 2 hours. On the way back, you can moor at the Leie quays and enjoy one of the many riverside terraces.
The Leie Quays in Summer
In summer, the lowered Leie quays are the busiest spot in Kortrijk. Terraces, walkers, boats – and you, watching everything float by from the water. After your session, you put everything back in the locker and can immediately step onto a terrace. Bar Uma is within walking distance, as is Brouwerij Ruimtegist for those who fancy a locally brewed beer.
Why Kayaking is the Best Water Activity in Kortrijk
In summer, Kortrijk has a lot to offer on the water. A guided tour, renting motorized boats, or packrafting – the range of water activities in Kortrijk grows every year. But nothing is as accessible, refreshing, and enjoyable as a kayak trip on the Leie. No fixed departure times, no guide, no group waiting for you. Just hop in and paddle.
Practical Information
The Dobber locker is located at Reepkaai, near the Kasteelbrug. The parking at Handelskaai is within walking distance. By bus, you get off at the Louis Robbeplein stop; by train, Kortrijk Station is a 10-minute walk away. We are open every day from April to October, see you soon?!
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FAQ
👉 Where can I kayak on the Leie in Kortrijk?
You'll find the Dobberlocker at Reepkaai, right next to the Kasteelbrug bridge and Buda Island. From there, you can paddle onto the Leie - past the Broeltorens, Buda Island, and the lowered Leie banks. Choose a short loop or a longer route towards Kortrijk Weide. Book your kayak and discover Kortrijk from the water.
👉 How much does it cost to rent a kayak in Kortrijk?
At Dobber, you pay per vessel, not per person. A solo kayak costs €14.99 for 1 hour, €19.99 for 1.5 hours, and €24.99 for 2 hours. A duo kayak starts from €18.99 per hour, which is less than €10.00 per person for a fun activity on the water. You'll see all prices clearly when booking.
👉 Is kayaking on the Leie in Kortrijk suitable for beginners?
The short route in the city center is calm and without much current - ideal for first-time kayakers. Paddle, life vest, and waterproof bag are included. If you want to venture onto the wider Leie, away from the city center, it's best to have some experience. Watch out for other boats and always stay to the right along the bank.
👉 How does kayak rental in Kortrijk work without staff?
Dobber operates fully autonomously - without on-site staff. Book online via our website, open the locker with your confirmation email, and head straight onto the water. Prefer a spontaneous trip? Scan the QR code on the locker and you'll be off in under a minute.
👉 Can I SUP in Kortrijk with Dobber?
The Dobber location on Buda Island offers solo and duo kayaks - no SUP boards. Still prefer to SUP with Dobber? Discover our locations in Sint-Martens-Latem or Nieuwpoort.
👉 Can I kayak with a group in Kortrijk?
Yes. Kayaking on the Leie is the ideal activity for groups of friends, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or team-building events. Kortrijk also offers plenty of options to plan a full day out, and there are plenty of terraces to enjoy a drink afterwards! Are you with a large group? Then reserve the entire locker, or contact us via our group page for a customized package.
👉 When is Dobber open in Kortrijk?
Dobber is available from April 1st to October 31st, every day from sunrise to sunset. No fixed opening hours - you choose your own start time.
👉 Where do I park if I'm renting a kayak in Kortrijk?
Handelskaai Parking is within walking distance of the Dobber locker on Reepkaai. If you're coming by bus, alight at the Louis Robbeplein stop. By train, Kortrijk Station is a 10-minute walk away.
