Do I need to have kayaked before?

No! It is possible to go sea kayaking without any prior experience. The trip will be modified according to your experience, ability and confidence level.

What do I need to bring?

You just need to bring a swimsuit, towel and something warm to wear on top! Feel free to bring a camera or spare clothes; drybags can be provided and items stowed in the kayaks.

What equipment is provided?

Included in the price of the tour is the use of a sea kayak, a ‘long john’ type wetsuit (without arms so that paddling is comfortable), spray top, buoyancy aid, wetsuit shoes, and a spray deck, if you would like to use one.

Do you have double kayaks?

No, at present only single sea kayaks are available, so everybody paddles their own boat.

What time are your trips?

Generally, for half day trips we’ll meet at 9.30 a.m. or 2.30 p.m. For full day trips we’ll most likely meet at 10 a.m. This is subject to change due to weather or tidal conditions, but you will be informed the day before.

Do I need to be able to roll?

No! Rolling back up after a capsize is an advanced manoeuvre – you don’t need to be able to do this!

What if I capsize?

People very occasionally capsize on a Roam tour. This generally happens because the participant is tense or nervous (or sometimes over-confident!). If you are relaxed, you will have no problem! Andrew is excellent at spotting signs of nervousness, and can guide you through the process of relaxation at a pace that suits you. If you do capsize, Andrew can easily get you back into the boat, and in a wetsuit you will remain warm for the rest of the tour.

Is there a size/weight limit?

Equipment ranges in size from Small to Extra Large. While the sea kayaks are very buoyant, the ‘cockpit’ does place a limit on size. Those with doubts about fitting into an XL wetsuit should raise their concerns prior to booking.

Is there a minimum age?

Due to the size of the single sea kayaks (they are over 15 feet/5 metres long), the minimum age is 12 years old. Please get in touch if you have a younger child that is particularly strong and energetic!

Do you have a minimum/maximum group size?

The minimum number of people required for a trip is two. The maximum is six but normal group size is four, which keeps the group manageable and makes for a personable, friendly trip! If you are a solo traveller you can easily join another party – this is all taken care of during the booking process.

Can I take my dog?

Currently, taking dogs on sea kayak trips is not possible. If you would like somebody to look after your dog while you are kayaking, please contact Yvonne at Paws On Harris, via phone on 07973815262 or Facebook @PawsOnHarris.

What is your cancellation policy?

A 50% deposit is taken to secure the booking. The deposit is refunded in full if cancellation is made 7 days before the trip date. The deposit is not refunded if booking is cancelled within 7 days. The remainder of the payment is taken either in cash or by card on the day. If a change to the trip is made by Roam Outer Hebrides because of the weather (either location, time, duration, or all of the above), and you agree, the trip is subject to the same cancellation policy. If the trip cannot go ahead due to the weather, you will receive a full refund. Cancellations made due to Covid-19 will receive a full refund.

Where do we meet?

Location of sea kayak tours depends on the weather and tidal conditions on the day. This information will be given to you the day before. See our ‘Trips’ section for where we might go! As a general rule, if the wind is coming from the West, we will kayak on the East side, and vice versa.

Do you rent kayaks?

No, kayaks are not available for rent. Roam only offers guided sea kayak trips.

Isn’t a full day too long to be kayaking for?

Full day trips are leisurely affairs. They generally mean we can take a bit more time to watch wildlife, explore inlets and islands, drink tea and eat flapjack! While it affords more time to get to more remote places, it doesn’t necessarily mean we will be paddling for twice as long as a half day trip!

How do I get to Harris?

You have three options using the ferry.

1. Take the ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway (Isle of Lewis), and drive one hour south to Harris.
2. Take the ferry from Uig (Isle of Skye) directly to Tarbert, Harris.
3. Take the ferry from North Uist/Berneray to Leverburgh (South Harris), and drive 30 minutes to Tarbert.

You can also fly to Stornoway from many locations using Loganair.

Buses operate around Harris – timetables can be found here. Having a vehicle is preferable as you are not constrained by the bus routes and timetable. You can hire a car from Car Hire Hebrides.

Are you insured?

Yes, public liability insurance is in place.

What are your qualifications?

Andrew is a qualified Sea Kayak Leader for Moderate Water and an Outdoor First Aider (updated March 2021). He is also a qualified Mountain Leader (summer).