Boating on the Aare with children: Your safety guide for the whole family
A sunny afternoon on the Aare is the ultimate summer experience, but when it comes to children, safety is paramount. As pioneers on this river since 2007, we have already accompanied thousands of families safely to their destination.
Based on nearly two decades of experience, we have developed specific age recommendations for our equipment. These figures are not arbitrary—they are based on the physical demands and potential risks of each activity.
Our recommended age limits
Every activity on the river has a different "level of difficulty." A child in a stable 6-person rubber dinghy is in a completely different environment than a teenager alone in a tube.
| activity | Recommended age | prerequisite |
|---|---|---|
| 6-person Schlauchboot | From 8 years of age | Must be able to swim; stable boat with many adults. |
| Septipus (5 persons) | From 10 years of age | At least 2 adults must be on board. |
| kayaks | From 10 years of age | Greater physical effort required and risk of capsizing. |
| Tubes & SUPs | From 14 years of age | Good swimming skills; long arms needed for paddling. |
Why are there different age limits?
In a tube, you are traveling alone. To navigate, you must be able to comfortably reach the water with your arms and have the strength to paddle away from obstacles. In a 6-person inflatable boat, the child is surrounded by higher side walls and more adults, which significantly reduces the risk of accidentally falling overboard.
Parental responsibility
Even though we set these guidelines based on years of observation, every child develops differently. Some 8-year-olds are already competitive swimmers, while some 14-year-olds still feel unsafe in flowing water.
The decision: The person booking the tour is responsible for assessing the swimming abilities and well-being of the children.
The final word: Our team on site always has the final say. If our employees feel that a situation is unsafe for a child on the day of rental, we will not allow them on the boat. Our motto is: Safety first – no discussion.
Why starting in Uttigen is ideal for families
The most dangerous section of the Aare between Thun and Bern is the Uttigen weir. If you start directly at Uttigen station, you will enter the water below the weir. This allows your family to avoid the most stressful part of the river and enjoy a relaxed trip right from the start.
Tips for a great family day:
Life jackets: We provide suitable life jackets for all children. These must be worn correctly and kept fastened throughout the entire trip.
Sun protection: The water reflects the sun extremely strongly – sunscreen with a high SPF and hats are essential.
Drinks: Pack enough water. The 20 km ride to Bern-Eichholz takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Advice: If you are unsure which boat is right for your family, simply contact us before booking.
Ready for your family adventure on the Aare?
