One of the oldest rental bases in Ardèche, an experienced team, complete care for every customer
Viking Bateaux is one of the oldest canoe and kayak rental companies in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. Based on the Route des Gorges, our location has become over the years a flagship of Ardèche river trips, recognised by locals as well as visitors who return year after year. From the Mini Trip under the Pont d'Arc to the Full Run 36 km, seven routes to discover the Gorges at your own pace.
What defines our signature is neither the size of our fleet nor aggressive marketing: it is the complete care we provide to every customer. Tailored briefings, personalised advice, help with preparation, shuttle service included, team on hand from arrival to return. Without slack or stress, an experienced team supports you throughout the season, so you can focus on what matters: fully enjoying the river.
Viking Bateaux is among the very first canoe bases established in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc. A long experience that translates into an intimate knowledge of the river, the rapids and the best conditions.
Our single location sits at 416 Route des Gorges, at the entrance of the Ardèche Gorges. You'll find free parking, direct river access and a return shuttle included: everything is on site.
Our team mobilises every season to handle reception, briefing, shuttle logistics, fleet maintenance and phone support. An organisation that lets us welcome the summer rush without ever compromising the attention given to each customer.
In an industry where summer crowds sometimes push operators to industrialise their service, Viking Bateaux made a simple choice: every customer deserves the same attention, whether they come for a 6 km Mini or a 2-day bivouac. That is what made us grow, and what keeps us going.
On arrival, a team member takes the time to understand your plans, your group, your children. The right route is the one that fits you, not the most profitable one for us.
Before every departure, we take the time for a thorough briefing covering paddling technique, running rapids, Nature Reserve rules and safety. Parents ask their questions, children understand what will happen.
The return shuttle is included in every rate, on time and adapted to actual arrival times. Parking is free at the base. The whole organisation is taken care of: no logistics to handle on your side.
We provide life jackets in every size, organise a systematic briefing before each departure, and our team is trained in first aid. We'd rather spend 5 extra minutes explaining than cut corners on a child's safety.
Our canoes and kayaks are checked before every departure and replaced regularly. Our lightweight paddles adapt to every build, and our watertight barrels are kept in perfect condition. Equipment is never a hindrance to your day on the water.
Every question gets a clear, precise answer. We take the time to steer you towards the route that suits you, even if it isn't the most profitable. A great experience beats an extra sales pitch.
The Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve is a fragile environment. At every departure, we remind paddlers of the essential rules: no waste, no fire, no disturbance to wildlife. Your children will leave with the reflex of respect.
Behind every trip, a mobilised team. Here are the roles you'll meet from arrival to shuttle return. Each one is trained to make sure your day runs without a hitch.
This team greets you, registers your booking and hands you your life jackets and paddles. First contact, first smile: they set the tone for your day.
Our instructors lead the briefing before every departure and cover paddling technique, running rapids and Nature Reserve rules. Everything is explained clearly, including for children.
This discreet team drives you back to the base after the trip. With heated minibuses in shoulder season and guaranteed punctuality, the shuttle is included in every rate.
Among the oldest canoe bases in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, Viking Bateaux has become over the years a flagship of Ardèche river trips. A reputation built over time, not on marketing.
Where others simply rent out a canoe, we guide every customer: full briefing, personalised advice, on-river assistance, punctual shuttle. A standard you feel from the moment you arrive at the base.
The 12 rapids of the Gorges, the tricky stretches, the best picnic beaches, the bivouac rules: we know every metre of the route. You ask a question, you get a real answer.
Our best advertising is the customers who come back and recommend us. Google and TripAdvisor reviews speak for themselves in terms of welcome, organisation and professionalism. Take a look before you book.
416 Route des Gorges
07150 Vallon-Pont-d'Arc
Ardèche, France
Every day
10 am to 5 pm
April to September
