Mobile kayak and paddleboard hire

Holidaymakers, cottage renters, campers, locals who do not own gear, and groups such as family reunions or corporate outings.

Hourly, half-day and full-day rental rates, with extra income from delivery fees, group bookings and the odd lesson or guided paddle.

• Comfortable on the water
• Customer service
• Basic equipment repair and maintenance
• Safety briefings

• Check whether your municipality, park authority or the landowner allows commercial rentals on the site
• Commercial general liability insurance that specifically covers watersports rental
• Life jackets or PFDs and other safety gear must meet Transport Canada rules, check the current requirements
• Use a signed waiver and give a safety briefing, but check with your insurer and a lawyer on wording
• Strongly seasonal in most of Canada, so plan for months with little or no income
• Theft and damage to equipment, plan for secure storage and a damage policy

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on fleet size, the trailer and safety gear. Plan for secure storage and a damage policy, as theft and damage to equipment are risks to budget for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on locations, fleet size and how busy the season is. The business is strongly seasonal in most of Canada, so plan for months with little or no income.

Check whether your municipality, park authority or the landowner allows commercial rentals on your chosen site. Also check commercial liability insurance that covers watersports rental, and that life jackets and safety gear meet current Transport Canada requirements.