Explore the River Vantaa in Helsinki by kayak or rowboat!
Rent a kayak, SUP board, canoe, or rowboat – the River Vantaa’s lush rural scenery, vibrant nature, and picturesque bridges are waiting to be discovered from the water. The river’s sheltered banks make paddling easy, safe, and enjoyable.
If you’ve never tried paddling before – or if you feel a little nervous about it – Melontaranta is the perfect place to start and to gain a great first experience. Paddling is a wonderful way to unwind from everyday rush and to enjoy fresh air during the open-water season. There’s plenty to explore along the River Vantaa, but even a short two- or three-hour paddling trip can easily fit into your day or a visit to Helsinki.
You can rent water sports equipment or join a guided tour. If you’d like a private guided trip for your group, a customised river tour on the River Vantaa can be planned according to your wishes.
All rentals and guided tours always include the necessary equipment and gear:
Kayak – spray deck, pfd and paddle
Canoe – paddle and pfd
SUP board – paddle, pfd and leash
Rowboat – oars and pfd
The recommended paddling or rowing direction from Melontaranta is upstream along the western branch of the River Vantaa. The current is very calm, but paddling upstream first ensures that nature’s forces will be on your side when you return to the starting point.
You can head out on the water even if you have no previous experience with paddling or rowing. Our staff will help you choose the right equipment, gear, and route for you. You’ll also receive practical tips on paddling technique.
Address:
Melontaranta Helsinki
Uimarannantie, 00780 Helsinki
Easily accessible by public transport.
Melontaranta in Helsinki is the best place to start paddling
Natura Viva has nearly 20 years of experience in equipment rentals, paddling courses, and outdoor gear. We use only high-quality and safe equipment that has been tried and tested by our customers.
You can rent a kayak from us for a few hours, a full day, or even overnight. Along the River Vantaa, landing is easiest in developed areas such as near bridges, beaches, or designated rest stops. Check in advance where landing is safe and permitted. Remember Everyman’s rights – and respect nature conservation areas!
Equipment available at Melontaranta:
Kayaks – for both beginners and experienced paddlers
SUP boards – perfect for relaxed summer outings
Canoes and rowboats – take your family on a fun trip to Haltiala or Pikkukoski
We recommend booking online to ensure equipment availability.
All of the above are also available with a Natura Viva Season Pass!
Natura Viva Season Passes
Natura Viva’s season passes are popular among locals and active outdoor enthusiasts. With our pass, you don’t need to buy your own kayak, SUP board, or fatbike – use Natura Viva equipment as much as you want! In addition to Melontaranta, equipment is available at nine other locations across Southern Finland.
Choose all the gear or pick the activity that suits you best – discover our season passes!
Melontaranta Rental Opening Hours 2026
Opening hours will be announced in spring 2026!
Combine your paddling trip with a refreshing swim nearby
Right next door, the Tapaninvainio Beach is a popular swimming spot along the River Vantaa – and best of all, it’s located right beside Melontaranta. The beach has changing cabins, showers, a water point, and outdoor fitness equipment. The water quality is monitored regularly during summer.
Please note: There are no lifeguards or beach safety staff at Tapaninvainio Beach. In the near future, a new container sauna will be added to the beach – perfect for relaxing alone or with a group after a day outdoors.
