Activity
Kayaking in the Gulf of Morbihan
Baden / Arradon / Vannes · Morbihan
Paddling in the Gulf of Morbihan from the picturesque port of Saint-Goustan: the best way to grasp the scale and richness of one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
- Suggested time
- 2 h (introduction) to a full day
- Type of place
- Kayaking and paddleboarding in the Gulf of Morbihan
- Atmosphere
- Adventurous and serene, gliding silently between the islands
- Getting there
- Port de Saint-Goustan, 56400 Auray; free parking nearby
Who this place suits
- With family
- 7/10
- As a couple
- 9/10
- With friends
- 9/10
- Solo
- 8/10
- With a dog
- 2/10
- Reduced mobility
- 2/10
These scores are calculated from what the page records: official rating, facilities, difficulty, duration and location. They are a guide, not a substitute for contacting the venue, especially about accessibility.
About
The Gulf of Morbihan (“the little sea” in Breton) is an inland sea of 12,000 hectares dotted with some forty islands and islets, between Vannes and the Rhuys peninsula. Exploring it by kayak from the port of Saint-Goustan in Auray is the best way to grasp its scale and ecological richness: the Île aux Moines, the Île d’Arz, Berder, Boëdic, oyster beds and seabirds such as cormorants, terns and egrets. The Canoë-Kayak Club d’Auray, based in the port of Saint-Goustan, offers self-guided hire and guided trips on the Auray and Bono rivers, and in the Gulf with stops on the islands. It is an ideal gentle activity to discover the unspoilt landscapes of southern Morbihan, with family or as a couple, for half a day or a full day with a picnic.
What you will see
- The Gulf of Morbihan, one of the “Most Beautiful Bays in the World”.
- Some forty islands and islets, including the Île aux Moines and the Île d’Arz.
- Trips with a naturalist guide: birdwatching, oyster farming, megaliths.
- Calm, sheltered waters, suitable for beginners and families.
- Departure from Saint-Goustan, one of the most beautiful old harbours in Brittany.
- Hire by the hour, half day, full day or multi-day trips.
Practical information
- Address
- Port de Saint-Goustan, 56400 Auray
- Parking
- Free car park at the port of Saint-Goustan, about 300 spaces
- Accessibility
- Boarding is difficult for people with reduced mobility; ask about adaptations
- Best time
- May to September; the water is warmest in August (19 to 22°C)
Tips on the spot
- Prices 2026: €30 to €45 for a self-guided half day; guided trips €35 to €50 per person.
- Book ahead in July and August, especially guided trips (10 to 12 people maximum).
- Choose your tide: incoming current (from Auray towards the Gulf) or outgoing; ask for advice.
- Bring waterproof sun cream, water shoes, sunglasses and a windbreaker, even in summer.
- Spare clothes can be left with the provider in a locked locker.
Show 1 more tipHide
- For children under 12, a two-seater kayak with an adult or a stand-up paddleboard.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the trips start?
From the port of Saint-Goustan in Auray.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, the waters are calm and sheltered, suitable for beginners and families.
How much does it cost?
In 2026, €30 to €45 for a self-guided half day and €35 to €50 per person for a guided trip.
When is the best time?
From May to September; the water is warmest in August.
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Read in the journal
- ChristmasWhat to do in Morbihan during the Christmas holidaysChristmas in Vannes, the Pont-Scorff light trail, Rochefort-en-Terre lit up and Carnac in winter: our ideas for the 2026 Christmas holidays in Morbihan.
- SeasonWhat to do in Morbihan during the All Saints’ holidaysThe Carnac alignments open to walk among, the Gulf of Morbihan, castles, the wild coast and Lorient: our ideas for All Saints’ 2026 in Morbihan.
- Region guideWhat to do in the Gulf of MorbihanThe Île aux Moines, the Île d’Arz, the Gavrinis cairn, Port-Navalo, Locmariaquer, Vannes and Suscinio: the guide to visiting the Gulf of Morbihan, its islands and its shores.
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Photograph: Jebulon · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons