One of the oldest rental bases in Ardèche, a team of about fifteen in season, 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. No slack, no stress: a team of about fifteen people in season, doing their job so that yours (enjoying the river) goes perfectly.
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 Gorges de l'Ardèche. Free parking, direct river access, return shuttle included: everything is on site.
15 people in season: reception, briefing, shuttle logistics, fleet maintenance, phone support. A size that lets us absorb 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.
No anonymous queue. 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.
15 minutes of briefing before every departure, not 3 rushed sentences. Paddling technique, running rapids, Nature Reserve rules, safety. Parents ask their questions, children understand what will happen.
Return shuttle included in every rate, on time, adapted to actual arrival times. Free parking at the base. You come, you paddle, we bring you back. Zero logistics to handle on your side.
Life jackets in every size, systematic briefing before each departure, team trained in first aid. We'd rather spend 5 extra minutes explaining than cut corners on a child's safety.
Canoes and kayaks checked before every departure, replaced regularly. Lightweight paddles adapted to every build, watertight barrels in good condition. Equipment is never an excuse for a rough time.
Every question gets a real 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 upsell.
The Réserve Naturelle des Gorges de l'Ardèche is a fragile treasure. We raise awareness at every departure: no waste, no fire, no disturbance to wildlife. Your children will leave with the reflex of respect.
Behind every trip, there are 15 people on duty. 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.
The team that greets you, registers your booking, hands you your life jackets and paddles. First contact, first smile: they set the tone for your day.
The instructors who lead the briefing before every departure. Paddling technique, running rapids, Nature Reserve rules: everything is explained clearly, including for children.
The discreet team that drives you back to the base after the trip. Warm minibuses in shoulder season, 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: welcome, organisation, 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
