Intro Course
Your first paddling experience. 3 hours of basic paddle technique, safety and lots of fun. Perfect for trying kayaking.
3 hours4–8 pers.
NOK 1,000Read more
Season 2026 — Book now
Sea kayak courses and paddle experiences in Ålesund, Giske & Sunnmøre, Norway
From beginner courses to advanced coastal paddling. NPF-certified instructor, premium equipment and some of Norway's most beautiful paddling waters right outside the door.
5.0 ★
85+ reviews
NPF
Certified instructor
Since 2017
Ålesund & Giske
1000+
Course & trip participants
Why Kajakkguiden
An experience you'll float on
Safe kayak experiences in stunning nature. Expertise, safety and premium equipment on Sunnmøre's most beautiful coastline.
Local instructor
NPF-certified instructor with over 15 years of experience in Sunnmøre. Deep knowledge of waters, currents and the best paddling routes in Ålesund and Giske.
Safety first
Maximum 8 participants per instructor, premium safety equipment and thorough training. Your safety is always the top priority.
Premium equipment
I only paddle with the best — renowned sea kayaks from Edge, P&H and NDK. Equipment available for rent at a great price.
Stunning surroundings
From Giske's idyllic coastline to Runde's dramatic cliff faces. Ålesund and Sunnmøre offer some of Norway's best paddling conditions.
Courses
View all coursesPopular courses
From beginner courses to magical night experiences — courses for all levels in Ålesund and Giske.
Most popularFoundation Sea Kayak Course
The most popular course. 2 days of thorough training following NPF's program. You receive a Paddle Certificate upon passing.
2 days4–8 pers.
NOK 2,900Read more
Night Paddling
Magical paddling after dark. Starry skies, total silence and an unforgettable experience on Ellingsøyfjorden.
Max 4 hours4–6 pers.
NOK 990Read more
Reviews
What our participants say
85+ reviews with top ratings on Facebook and Google. Here are some of them.
5.0
65 reviews5.0
21 reviewsFacebook
“Har deltatt på grunnkurs og vil anbefale Kajakkguiden på det sterkeste. God progresjon og øvelser som gjorde oss trygge og flinkere i padleteknikker og bergingsteknikker. Øystein er en veldig dyktig instruktør som brenner for padling og er flink til å dele kunnskapen.”
T
Terje Lund
Foundation CourseFacebook
“Instruktøren Øystein har med sine eminente kunnskap og lidenskap sørget for at jeg er kajakkfrelst! Evnen hans til å SE hver kursdeltager, å ha riktig tilnærming til hvert enkelt individ er unikt. Vil ellers takke for 2 utrolige flotte dager.”
A
Agathe Krøs Løken
Foundation CourseFacebook
“Øystein er en utrolig dyktig og inkluderende instruktør. Kjekt med en så trygg instruktør som gjorde min frykt om til en god mestringsfølelse. Flott og artig kurs med både lek og alvor. Anbefales!”
N
Nina Lund
Foundation CourseTrip suggestions
View all trip suggestionsExplore the coast
From calm fjord paddling to challenging coastal routes. Find the best trips in Ålesund, Giske and Sunnmøre.
Giske
Around Giske
A classic round trip around Giske offering varied paddling. You pass the historic Giske Church from the sea side, paddle along open coast with views of the ocean, and return through calmer waters. The trip requires stable weather and some experience.
1,5–2 timer~9 kmIntermediate
Valderøya
Around Valderøya
A calm trip in the archipelago around Valderøya. Perfect for beginners or those who want a relaxing paddle. The waters are sheltered and you paddle between islets and skerries with rich birdlife.
2–3 timer~13 kmBeginner
Ålesund
Ålesund city centre from the sea
See Ålesund's famous Art Nouveau architecture from an entirely new angle — from the kayak. You paddle through Brosundet, along the harbour and out towards Skanseholmen. A unique experience even for those who know the city well.
2–4 timer~8 kmBeginner
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about kayak courses, equipment and safety.
Do I need to be able to swim to paddle a kayak?
Yes, you must be able to swim at least 200 metres. This is a requirement for all courses and rental. You should also be comfortable in water.
Do I need to be in good physical shape?
You don't need to be an athlete. Normal fitness is sufficient for most courses. I adapt the pace and content to the group. The foundation course is 16 hours over two days, so some endurance is an advantage.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety always comes first. In bad weather, the course may be moved to another date. I make the decision in consultation with you and give notice as early as possible. A bit of rain is rarely a problem — wind and waves are what I assess.
What do I need to bring?
Equipment can be rented in addition to the course price. You need: wool or synthetic base layers (never cotton), extra change of clothes for afterwards, packed lunch and drinks, sunscreen and sunglasses. I recommend paddling shoes or shoes that can get wet.
Ready for your next paddle adventure in Ålesund?
Whether you want to try kayaking for the first time or take your skills to the next level — find the right course for you. Experience Giske, Sunnmøre and Ålesund from the sea.