Planning your first trip on the water and not sure where to start? We have collected the 15 most common questions about kayaks and SUP boards. Every answer is short and to the point.
How much does a kayak cost in Lithuania?
Kayak prices in Lithuania range from 199 EUR for recreational models to 2 300 EUR for professional fishing kayaks with a pedal system. The most popular single fishing kayaks cost 500 to 1 000 EUR, and family tandem models start at 499 EUR.
For casual fun on a budget, go for Galaxy Reef Adult (from 299 EUR). For more serious fishing we recommend Galaxy Cruz Ultra (from 699 EUR) with built in rod holders. You will find prices for all models in our kayak catalogue.
Do you need a licence to paddle a kayak in Lithuania?
No, you do not need a licence to paddle a kayak in Lithuania. A kayak is human powered with no engine, so no boating licence is required. You must have a life jacket and follow the general rules for being on the water.
Good to know: paddling may be restricted on some lakes and rivers. Before your trip, check the rules for the specific body of water on the Ministry of Environment website. A motorised kayak (engine up to 5 hp) does not require a licence either.
What is the best kayak for beginners?
Sit on top kayaks with a wide hull (80+ cm) are the best choice for beginners. They sit steadily on the water, are easy to handle and hard to capsize. We recommend the Galaxy Fuego or Blaze XL as a first kayak.
Galaxy Fuego (from 449 EUR) is a versatile kayak for both recreation and light fishing. Blaze XL (from 499 EUR) offers even more space and comfort. You will find a more detailed guide in the article How to choose your first kayak.
What is the best kayak for fishing?
The best fishing kayak should be stable and have rod holders, storage compartments and a comfortable seat for long sessions. The most popular in Lithuania are Galaxy Kayaks fishing models and the American NuCanoe and Bonafide.
Budget choice: Galaxy Cruz Ultra (from 699 EUR). Premium segment: NuCanoe Flint with the Freedom Track system. More details: How to choose a fishing kayak.
SUP board or kayak: which should you choose?
A SUP board is better for short paddles, fitness and yoga on the water. A kayak has the edge over long distances, for fishing and in the wind. A SUP is easier to transport (an inflatable fits in a backpack), while a kayak offers more stability.
If you want active leisure on calm water, go for a SUP. If you are planning longer trips, fishing or paddling with your family, a kayak will be more practical. Most of our customers end up owning both.
How much does a SUP board cost?
Inflatable SUP boards in Lithuania start at around 200 EUR for beginner models and go up to 1 200 EUR for professional touring or race boards. Most popular models cost 300 to 700 EUR.
Good for beginners: Amber series boards (from ~250 EUR). Higher end: NRS models with innovative Z-Blend Core technology. All boards in the VAKA Sport shop: paddle board catalogue.
Is a kayak suitable for a family with children?
Yes, a kayak is great for family fun on the water. A two seater (tandem) kayak lets two adults or an adult and a child paddle together. Some models have extra space for a child between the seats.
Galaxy Reef Tandem (499 EUR) has a moulded middle area for a child up to 10 years old or a pet. Tahiti Tandem (from 699 EUR) offers a proper third seat. More details: Galaxy tandem kayaks.
How do you transport a kayak?
A kayak can be carried on a car roof with dedicated racks or on a trailer. Most sit on top kayaks weigh 20 to 38 kg, so one person can lift them onto the roof. Inflatable kayaks are carried in a backpack.
You can buy universal roof racks (foam blocks with straps, from 30 EUR) or professional J style carriers. We cover transport and storage in more detail in the article Kayak transport and storage.
Where can you kayak and SUP in Lithuania?
You can paddle on most lakes, rivers and ponds in Lithuania. The most popular kayaking spots are the Žeimena, Šventoji, Merkys and Minija rivers, the Kaunas Lagoon and the Trakai lakes. Calm lakes and slow rivers are best for SUP.
Some bodies of water may have restrictions. In 2024 the Ministry of Environment expanded the list of waters where paddling is allowed. We recommend the article Where to kayak in Lithuania.
What kind of life jacket do you need for kayaking?
When kayaking or paddle boarding you must have a CE certified life jacket. For adults a 50N (calm water) or 100N (open water) jacket is recommended. Children under 30 kg need a dedicated children's life jacket.
In the VAKA Sport shop you will find Baltic Lifejackets and NRS life jackets from 25 EUR. More on safety gear: Life saving equipment: the complete guide.
Is a SUP board suitable for beginners?
Yes, SUP is one of the easiest water sports to learn. Most people stand up on the board within the first 10 to 15 minutes. It is important to choose a wide enough (80+ cm) and long enough (305+ cm) board for stability.
For beginners we recommend all round boards that are 15 cm (6 inches) thick. They are stable, forgiving and suit both calm lakes and gentle river currents. More tips: The best SUP boards for beginners.
What is the difference between a kayak and a baidarė?
A kayak and a baidarė (the traditional Lithuanian touring boat) differ in seating position and paddling technique. In a kayak you sit low with your legs stretched out and paddle with a double bladed paddle. In a baidarė you sit higher (often kneeling) and use a single blade paddle. Kayak and paddle board paddles are in a separate accessories category. Today the term kayak is more often used for fishing and sit on top models.
The practical difference: sit on top kayaks are more stable, easier to get in and out of and good for fishing. Closed (sit in) kayaks and baidarės are faster and better at keeping out spray. More details: Kayak or baidarė: what is the difference.
What size SUP board should you choose?
The right SUP size depends on your weight and what you plan to do. Lighter paddlers (up to 75 kg) suit a board 305 cm long and 76 cm wide. Heavier paddlers (75 to 100 kg) should go for 320 to 335 cm long and 81 to 84 cm wide. Over 100 kg, choose 335+ cm in length.
All round models (305 to 335 cm, 81 to 84 cm) suit most people and situations. Touring models (350+ cm, narrower) are made for longer distances. More information: How to choose the right SUP board.
Can you fish from a SUP board?
Yes, SUP fishing is getting more and more popular. A board lets you glide quietly up to fishing spots and fish standing up, which gives you great visibility. Choose a wider (84+ cm), more stable board with D rings for securing gear.
SUP fishing works best on calm lakes and slow rivers. An anchor is important so the wind does not push the board around. If you are planning serious fishing with a lot of gear, a fishing kayak will be the more comfortable choice. More: SUP fishing: the complete guide.
How do you look after a kayak and a SUP board?
Rinse your kayak and SUP board with fresh water after every use, especially if you have been in salt water. Keep them out of direct sunlight for long periods. Plastic kayaks can be stored outdoors under a cover, while inflatable boards are best stored deflated and dry.
Before the season, check for cracks (kayak) or air leaks (board). Lubricate metal parts (paddle joints, mounts) with silicone oil. In winter, store the kayak flat or on its side, never standing upright. More: Kayak transport and storage.
Have more questions?
Our team will gladly help you choose the right kayak or SUP board. Call +370 602 92337 or write to [email protected]. Visit vakasport.lt and browse our full range of water sports gear.
Read also
- How to choose an inflatable SUP board: a beginner's guide (2026)
- How to choose your first kayak? 5 questions to ask yourself before you buy
- Where to kayak in Lithuania: the best routes and places (2026)
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