You can swim
Everyone in your group can swim without help. Your buoyancy aid is there to keep you safe, but it does not replace being a capable swimmer.
Read now, sign on the day
Your guest waiver, in plain English
This is the same waiver you'll be handed on paper when we meet at the launch spot. Read it at home, ask us anything you're unsure about, and sign on the day. There's nothing to fill in online.
1. Read it here
Take your time. Share the link with everyone in your group.
2. Sign on paper
Your guide hands you a printed copy when we meet.
3. Get on the water
Safety briefing, kit fitted, and off you paddle.
The short version
Six things every paddler should know before they arrive. The full waiver follows below.
Swim unaided
A buoyancy aid is not a substitute.
Buoyancy aid on
Worn the whole time you're afloat.
Top and shoes
A shirt under your buoyancy aid, no bare feet.
Guide decides
Follow instructions on land and at sea.
Weather rules
Routes and launch spots can change.
Photos happen
Tell your guide if you'd rather opt out.
Health, fitness and swimming
Who can paddle, and what we need to know about you.
You're fit to paddle
You can sit upright and paddle for the length of the tour, and nobody in your group has an injury or condition that would make that unsafe.
You'll tell us what we should know
If you have a medical condition, a recent injury or any need that could affect your day, note it on your form or tell your guide before we launch. We would always rather adjust the plan than have you paddle through a problem.
Your guide picks the kayak
Guides choose the kayak and seating for each paddler based on size, experience, sea conditions and how the group balances. We may change this on the day, and we can decline to take someone out if safety would be compromised.
Kit, clothing and belongings
What we provide, what you look after, and what to wear.
What we provide
A sit-on-top kayak, a paddle, a buoyancy aid and a dry bag. The buoyancy aid must be worn whenever you are on the water.
You look after the kit
You are responsible for the equipment issued to you. Damage caused by misuse or carelessness may be charged to you.
Proper footwear
Wear shoes that stay on and can get wet. Launch spots can be rocky and hot underfoot, so please don't arrive barefoot.
A top under your buoyancy aid
It is recommended that you wear a shirt beneath the buoyancy aid to prevent chafing and skin irritation.
Swimwear that stays put
Wear secure swimwear. Quick-drying board shorts or swim shorts over bikini bottoms are a good idea: they stay in place and protect against rubbing on the kayak.
Sun, water and comfort
Bring drinking water, sun protection and suitable clothing. Looking after yourself in the sun, and staying hydrated, is your responsibility.
Your belongings
You are responsibile for lost or damaged personal items, including phones and other electronics susating water damage. Nothing in proximity of water will be completely waterproof.
On the water
How the day runs, and who makes the calls.
Your guide has the final say
Follow your guide's instructions at all times. If instructions are repeatedly ignored, you may be asked to leave the activity, and no refund will be due.
The weather sets the plan
Routes and launch spots depend on the forecast and sea state, and we confirm your meeting point ahead of the tour. If we can't run your tour safely, you can reschedule or take a refund.
Swimming stops and getting on and off
Sit-on-top kayaks make it easy to slip into the water and climb back on. Any swimming, snorkelling or getting in and out of the kayak is done at your own risk.
Arches, Caves and tight spots are optional
Going through arches, exposed rock formations, into sea caves or confined coves is your choice, and it's at your own risk. Your guide will advice whether sea conditions allow it on the day however you will take the risk if you decide in doing so.
Be on time
If you arrive late or don't turn up, we may not be able to launch you safely with the group, and the booking may be forfeited.
Risk and photos
The legal part. Please read points 17 and 18 carefully.
Sea kayaking carries real risk
You understand the risks that come with paddling on open water. They include waves, wind, capsizing, slipping on rocks, dehydration, heat exhaustion or heatstroke, and changing sea conditions.
You take part at your own risk
You take part entirely at your own risk. As far as the law allows, you release MelaKayak from liability for injury, loss or death arising from the activity.
Photos and video
Your guide will take photos during the tour, which we send to you. We may also use photos and video on our website and social media. If you'd rather not appear, tell your guide before we launch. Privacy can't be guaranteed in public places or in wider group shots.
When you sign on the day
By signing the paper waiver, you confirm that you've read and understood all 19 points on this page. The signed paper copy is our record, and this page is here so nothing comes as a surprise.
Read the FAQs
Cancellations, what to bring, weather and more.
Ask us a question
Unsure about anything here? Send us a message before you book.
Book your tour
Pick a route and date with the trip calculator.