River Spey Canoe Expedition

Explore the Mighty River Spey from above Loch Insch past the iconic Washing Machine and Knockandoo Rapids. This 5 day expedition includes wild camping on the banks of the River.

Level: Grade 1-2 five day canoe journey

contact us for a private group booking
10 to 12 customers
£595

Next Trip Dates: 3rd to 7th October 2025 - Marvel at the magnificent Autumn colours
Duration: 5 days

The River Spey is one of Britains most iconic white water rivers following the whisky trail through the Highlands taking in Loch Insch, Aviemore, Granton and fun rapids along the journey such as the Washing Machine, Knockandoo and plenty of places to learn skills.

Options: Contact us for a Private Spey Trip or to join our 2027 waiting List

What's Included

Craft
Buoyancy Aid
Basic Map
Dry Bag
Paddles
Helmet
Professional Coaches
Water
Cooking Kit
Your Campsite
Guiding
Food and Meals
Activity Equipment

We also have some back support for those with back problems

What else we can provide on request

Waterproofs
Hire of Wetsuits
Tipi Tent
Hire of Drysuits

Secure a place with £100 (non refundable) deposit and our instalment payment option.

Dates & Requirements

Contact us for a Private Spey Trip or to join our 2027 waiting List

River Spey Canoe Expedition - 5 Days of Adventure

If you are part of a group, family or club that would like to make a private booking for our expedition destinations then please drop us a line.

Join us for an unforgettable five-day canoe journey along the iconic River Spey, starting from the beautiful Loch Insch, home to nesting ospreys, and winding down through Aviemore and along the famous whisky trail.

The first sections of the river are ideal for building confidence, giving you time to develop your moving water skills as we paddle through gentle riffles and small rapids. Riverside towns such as Boat of Garten and Grantown-on-Spey sit above the river, offering opportunities to stretch your legs and explore.

As we journey further downstream, we pass Advie Bridge (launch point for our Best of Scotland trip) before reaching the legendary Blackboat Rapid – affectionately known as “the washing machine.” Here, there’s usually time for coaching in ferry gliding, breaking in and out, and developing boat control with support from our expert guides.

The adventure continues past Knockando rapids, home of Scotland’s slalom training site, before flowing towards Spey Bay. Along the way you’ll experience a thrilling mix of faster drops, playful rapids, and calm stretches perfect for soaking in the scenery. Towering gorge-like banks and rich wildlife – including sand martins and soaring birds of prey – make this a truly wild and memorable expedition.

Throughout the trip, our qualified coaches will help you refine your canoeing techniques, from trim and edge to dynamic forward paddling. Whether you’re practising white water canoeing skills or simply enjoying the peaceful moments, the River Spey has something for everyone.

Evenings will be spent wild camping on riverbanks, islands, and hidden spots, where we’ll enjoy free-range evening meals cooked over the campfire, share stories, and relax under the stars with our wilderness guides.

What’s included

Expert tuition from professional, experienced guides who have led expeditions worldwide
Breakfast and evening meals on the river
Canoes, paddles, buoyancy aids, cags, trousers, helmets, drybags, and all essential safety equipment
Drysuit hire available (first-come, first-served – we have plenty in stock

What to bring

Personal kit and clothing
Sleeping bag and roll mat
Cup, bowl, cutlery, and a knife and fork

Who is this trip for

Adventurers – anyone keen to explore Scotland’s wilderness by canoe.
Beginner–intermediate paddlers – some experience is helpful but not essential.
Skill builders – perfect for developing moving water and boat handling techniques.
Moderate fitness levels – comparable to a 6–7 hour hill walk with a light pack.
Outdoor enthusiasts – enjoy wild camping, campfires, and spotting local wildlife.

Trip Plan

Arrival – Meet near Aviemore

Getting here is easy – you can drive, fly, take the train or bus, or speak to us about a convenient shuttle option.

Day 1: Loch Insch – The Perfect Introduction

We begin our adventure near the stunning Loch Insch, home to ospreys and a wealth of birdlife. This gentle stretch of river is the ideal warm-up, giving you time to settle into your canoe and start practising essential skills.

Day 2: Paddling Past Aviemore & Boat of Garten

The river begins to pick up pace with riffles, rapids, and sharper bends. You’ll develop confidence and refine your paddling technique while surrounded by beautiful Cairngorm scenery.

Days 3–4: Grantown-on-Spey, the Washing Machine & Knockando Rapids

Experience the thrill of the River Spey’s best-known rapids, including the famous “Washing Machine” and Knockando – all under the guidance of our expert white water canoe leaders. Evenings are spent wild camping on islands and riverbanks, sharing stories around the campfire.

Day 5: The Final Stretch to Spey Bay

Our expedition continues towards Spey Bay, combining exciting rapids with peaceful sections through dramatic gorges and rich wildlife habitats. On arrival, we’ll provide a shuttle back to the Cairngorms. Bid farewell to new friends after an unforgettable adventure – until the next one!

If you are part of a group, family or club that would like to make a private booking for our expedition destinations then please drop us a line.

Contact us to book a tailored or private group booking for this trip which featured in the Great British Paddling Adventures Book.

Hire FAQ's

What's the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

If you're not sure of what each craft is, then read our guide here.

Are the trips guided?

There are no guides or instructors needed for hire. This is simply a hire where you paddle out and back to our launch point. We recommend our preferred route, however, you are free-range and able to explore the river.

What if it rains?

Unless you hear from us then your booking will run on the day agreed. Canoe Trail runs watersports, paddling, and adventurous activities throughout the year with people enjoying the river and our woodland campsite during the different seasons. On rare occasions (it only happens a couple of times a year) we may move or change your booking. This will be in freak weather conditions such as extremely high river flows in spate or during heavy storms with lightning. You can read our full FAQ here.

How does the booking process work?

We use a live booking system that will assign you the relevant craft and resources. Once you have confirmed your booking date, it is not then transferable and non-refundable in the same way you book an airline seat. Bookings are to be paid in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable. There will be no refunds for early returns, poor weather, or non-usage as per our general terms & conditions.