Group activity Ghent: packrafting through the canals

You’re looking for an activity in Ghent for a group. Something no one has done yet, that everyone talks about afterwards, and that suits both the adventurous types and those who usually prefer sitting on a terrace. That’s a tough combination. Unless you choose packrafting through the Ghent canals.

The Urban Packraft tour is designed for groups who want to experience something together. No passive boat tour, no standard escape room. You’re on the water, paddling through the historic center, stepping ashore, and continuing your walk through the city — all at your own pace, guided by an app. And all that for 49 euros per person, all-inclusive.

Why packrafting is perfect for groups

A good group activity requires two things: everyone must be able to participate, and it must be something new. Packrafting scores on both points.

You don’t need any experience. The packraft is wider and more stable than a kayak, and the instructions are clear in five minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsy person or someone who last saw a boat in a theme park — you’ll feel comfortable in it quickly.

And it’s new. The chance that someone in your group has already paddled a packraft on the Ghent canals is virtually zero. That makes it special.

Which groups is the tour suitable for?

The Urban Packraft tour works for a wide range of groups:

• Groups of friends who want to spend a day in Ghent differently than the usual terraces and museums
• Teambuilding for colleagues who want to do something together outside the office atmosphere
• Bachelor parties for those who have already done the classic activities
• Family days with teenagers from 12 years old
• Birthday groups who want to surprise the birthday boy or girl in an original way

How does the tour work for a group?

The tour starts at Madam Bakster at Brabantdam 142. Everyone gets a packraft, paddle, life jacket, and a 60-liter backpack. The briefing takes fifteen minutes, and then you’re out on the water.

The route is guided via an app on your phone. You navigate together as a group, determine your own pace, and stop wherever you want. After 5.5 kilometers on the water, you step ashore and begin the 8.5-kilometer walking portion through the center of Ghent. In total, you’ll be busy for about 4 to 5 hours.

There is no guide walking ahead of you or keeping you on schedule. You and your group determine the rhythm. That’s exactly what makes the tour so relaxed for larger parties.

Group activity Ghent: the alternatives at a glance

If you’re looking for a group activity in Ghent, you’ll come across a few standard options. We’ll honestly compare them to packrafting:

Tips for a successful group day

A few practical things to keep in mind when planning the tour for a group:

• Plan early in the day — start at 10:00 AM and you’ll be ready for lunch, or plan a lunch stop halfway through
• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking 8.5 kilometers, so sneakers or hiking shoes work better than sandals
• Bring a water bottle — you’ll be outside for half a day, especially in the summer
• Book on time — especially for larger groups and during peak season (April-August)

Ready for your group day in Ghent? Book the Urban Packraft tour at urbanpackraft.com. From €49 per person, all-inclusive, no guide needed.

Want to rent a packraft yourself for another location?

Is your group also interested in packrafting outside the city? Via rentapackraft.com, you can rent packrafts with home delivery in the Netherlands and Belgium. Ideal for a weekend on a river or lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum group size?
Contact us via urbanpackraft.com for large groups. The tour is basically available for all group sizes, but for more than 10 people, we recommend discussing the logistics in advance.

Can I combine the tour with a restaurant reservation?
Yes. The tour ends in the center of Ghent, within walking distance of dozens of restaurants. Plan your dinner after 3:00 PM if you start at 10:00 AM.

Is there an option for customized teambuilding?
Contact us via the website for customized corporate packages. There are options with extra assignments, meals, and an informal program.

What if it rains?
The tour continues in light rain. You’ll get a packraft with a backpack and can keep your belongings dry. In case of extreme weather conditions, the tour will be rescheduled to another date.