FAQs
Q: Do I have to compete or can I just watch the event?
You are very welcome to come as a spectator! There is a great atmosphere surrounding the Dalsland Canoe Marathon, making this a fun event for both participants and spectators. You are also welcome to register for the crayfish party after the race if you wish.
Q: What's a crayfish party?
Crayfish look like small lobsters, and crayfish parties are an important cultural tradition throughout Sweden around August-time. For more information, see our blog article on Swedish crayfish parties.
Q: Is it possible to hire K2s for the competition?
Currently it is only possible to hire K1s (single kayak) or C2s (2-person Canadian Canoe), though you are of course welcome to bring your own K2s to the event if you wish.
Q: Are there any sections of whitewater/rapids on the route?
No. The event takes place on lakes connected by calm rivers. See here for a map of the route and staging points.
Q: Can I do a self-guided canoe tour before and/or after the race?
Yes. You are welcome to hire canoes for additional days - please see "Prices" under "Equipment Hire Before/After The Race".
The myriad lakes and rivers of Dalsland offer extensive opportunities for self-guided canoe tours. From your base at the Canoe Camp or at Bengtsfors, a large number of circular tours are possible, from overnight trips to extended tours of one week or more. Information with maps and suggested tour routes is available locally.
Can I camp on the tour?
There is a large network of prepared camping spots at strategic points along the lakes and rivers throughout Dalsland, providing wonderful camping opportunities with wood for cooking/campfires and Swedish-style composting toilets. At the beginning of your tour, you purchase a Nature Conservation Card from the canoe centre for the number of nights you will be out on your tour, cost around £3/person/night. You are then entitled to use any of the camp locations. The money is used to provide firewood, for conservation measures, to maintain the sites and toilets, and to compensate local landowners for granting access to their land.
Do I need my own camping equipment?
Yes. If you would like to do a self-guided tour before and/or after the competition, you will need to have your own camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment, personal clothing, etc).