Frequently Asked Questions about the Sella River Descent by Canoe/Kayak

Yes! 🎯 On the Descent of the Sella River, many companies have launch ramps that allow you to enter the river in a fun and safe way. These ramps are usually located at the starting points, such as in Arriondas, and offer a more thrilling beginning to the activity—perfect for those looking for an extra adrenaline boost 🚀.

There are also companies without ramps, where access to the river is done from the shore or a small platform. Both options are valid and safe, depending on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

🗺️ What is the route of the Sella Descent?

The Sella River Descent starts in Arriondas (Km 0) and ends in Llovio (Km 19), passing through one of the most spectacular natural settings in Asturias.

Depending on the company and your physical condition, you can choose between several sections:

• 🚣‍♀️ Short section (4–7 km): ideal for families and beginners. Usually lasts between 1h and 2h.

• 🚣‍♂️ Medium section (12–14 km): perfect for those looking for a more complete experience (2.5h – 3.5h).

• 🚣‍♂️ Full section (14–19 km): from Arriondas to the outskirts of Ribadesella (Llovio), approximately 4h – 5h.

Along the route, you’ll enjoy:

• 🌿 River landscapes, mountains, and Asturian nature.

• 🛶 Areas to stop, rest, or enjoy the included picnic.

• 📍 Marked pickup points depending on the section you choose.

With many companies, you can choose your distance on the go: if you feel good at the first pickup point, you can continue to the next.

👉 If you want to see each point of the route with maps and photos, also visit:

Yes! The Sella descent with children is a perfectly doable activity and is becoming increasingly popular among families. However, there are some important things to keep in mind:

✅ Requirements for doing the Sella descent with kids:

• 👧 Minimum recommended age: generally from 5 or 6 years old, although this depends on the company. The important thing is that they can swim or at least are not afraid of water.

• 🛟 Adapted equipment: companies provide child-sized life jackets and stable canoes for greater safety.

• ☀️ Shorter sections: you can choose routes from 4 to 7 km, which are ideal for younger children.

📝 Practical tips:

• 🕒 Avoid the hottest hours of the day (go early).

• 💦 Wear comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.

• 🍎 Bring snacks and water (kids love having a picnic by the river!).

• 🐢 Remember that the most important thing is to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.

For more information > CLICK HERE

The right clothing depends on the time of year you do the activity:

☀️ Summer

• 👚 Lightweight, quick-drying clothing (technical t-shirt, swimsuit, bikini)

• 👟 Footwear that can get wet (sports shoes, water shoes); ❌ avoid flip-flops

• 🧴 Water-resistant sunscreen

• 🕶️ Sunglasses with a strap and a 🧢 cap

• 🧻 Towel and dry clothes for after the activity

❄️ Spring or Winter

• 🧥 Wetsuit: provided by many companies

• 👖 Thermal clothing or clothing that retains heat

• 🧦 Neoprene socks or closed footwear

• 🧤 Thin gloves if it’s cold

🎒 Tip: Bring a backpack with a water bottle, dry clothes and a dry bag if you want to carry your phone or personal items during the descent.

Yes, you can do the Sella River descent with your dog! 🐶🚣

More and more companies now offer the option to descend the Sella River with your pet, as long as the animal is in good physical condition and is sociable. Here are some key points:

• 🐾 Pet-friendly canoes: many companies have canoes adapted so your dog can ride comfortably with you.

• 🦺 Dog life jackets: some companies provide them, or you can bring your own.

• 🌳 Rest stops: you’ll be able to get out with your dog wherever you want along the route.

• 📝 Check with the company before booking, as each one has its own policy.

It’s an unforgettable experience for both you and your furry friend. And yes, many dogs have already become true Sella River adventurers!

More info > CLICK HERE

The minimum requirements to do the Descenso del Sella (from Arriondas to Ribadesella) are quite accessible, but essential to ensure safety:

🧍 Adults

• Knowing how to swim: It is essential to float and move in the water, especially in case of a fall or emergency.

👶 Children

• Minimum recommended age: 5 years, although some companies do not set a strict limit, they do require swimming skills and a minimum height.

• Minimum height: 1.15 m (equivalent to children between 5 and 7 years old).

• Confident swimming to handle unexpected situations.

• Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult or go in a double canoe.

🛡️ Safety and equipment

• Always wear a life jacket.

• Briefing by professional guides: how to handle the canoe, what to do if it flips, rules for rapids.

• Basic physical condition: you don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be in good health with no contraindications.

• Recommended clothing and equipment:

  • Swimsuit, comfortable shirt, proper footwear (no flip-flops).

  • Cap, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen, change of clothes, towel.

  • A waterproof barrel or dry bag for your belongings.

🚫 Special cases

• Children under 5 years old or shorter than 1.15 m: consult with the company for possible guided assistance.

• Pregnancy or medical conditions: it is recommended to consult a doctor and assess suitability.

In short, if you can swim, have the right gear, and basic physical fitness, you can enjoy the canoe descent. For children, swimming skills and a minimum age or height are required, and they must always be accompanied until the age of 14. A safe, fun, and family-friendly experience in one of Asturias’

Yes, there is indeed insurance that covers the Sella River Descent when done through an authorized company:

✅ Types of insurance included

• Liability insurance: covers damage to third parties during the activity.

• Medical assistance and accident insurance: covers medical attention and first aid in case of an accident during the descent.

🏞️ When does this insurance apply?

These insurances are mandatorily included in the price when booking with organized companies (Ranasella, Cangas Aventura, Jaire, Tucanoa…), so you don’t need to purchase additional insurance for the activity.

ℹ️ Additional recommendation

Despite this basic coverage:

• If you have your own travel or adventure insurance policy, it’s worth checking whether it also covers cancellations, river rescues, or medical repatriation.

• If you have pre-existing medical conditions, consult the organization or your insurance provider.

🔍 In summary

• ✅ Yes, liability and medical/accident insurance are included if you do the descent through a company.

• 🚫 You do not need to take out insurance on your own unless you have specific concerns such as cancellations or rescues.

On the Sella River Descent (from Arriondas to Ribadesella or Llovio), there are some important limits and restrictions to take into account:

🎒 Maximum weight in canoes

• Double canoe (K2): supports around 230 kg total (approximately 115 kg per person).

• Single canoe (K1): recommended capacity of about 100 kg.
  This means that very heavy individuals may need to go alone or consult the company to avoid overloading.

👶 Minimum age and height

• Minimum age: 5 years (although not always considered a strict limit if the child is ≥ 1.15 m tall and can swim).

• Minimum height: 1.15 m, a common criterion among organizers.

• Children up to 14 years old: must be accompanied by an adult or ride in a multi-person canoe with an adult.

⚠️ Additional restrictions

• Swimming ability: a mandatory requirement for all participants, with no exceptions.

• Space for dogs: if your dog weighs more than 20 kg, it won’t fit well in a K1 and may hinder the descent.

⏰ River schedule and operations

• Allowed hours: canoeing is only permitted between 11:00 and 18:00, due to fishing regulations.

• Sections and pickup points: you can choose to paddle 7, 11, 16–18 or up to 20 km depending on the company. There are intermediate pickup points to extend or shorten the route.

🦽 Maximum age or physical limitations

There is no legal or maximum age limit. However, the activity involves risks, as in the recent case of a 71-year-old man who passed away after exiting the canoe near Arriondas. It’s recommended to assess:

• Cardiovascular health and mobility.

• Ability to recover after falling into the water.

✅ Helpful tip: before booking, consult the company about any special circumstances (excess weight, health conditions, advanced age). They will adapt the canoe or provide extra support if needed.

🛡️ How are the risks minimized?

• ✅ Mandatory life jacket
• ✅ Pre-activity briefing by instructors (how to paddle, what to do if you capsize)
• ✅ Well-maintained equipment (canoes, paddles, waterproof barrels)
• ✅ Included insurance with medical assistance and liability coverage
• ✅ Choose the route according to your fitness level (7 km, 12 km, 15 km, or up to 20 km)
• ✅ Avoid alcohol or going out in bad weather

🧠 Conclusion

There are risks, as with any outdoor and water activity.

But if you know how to swim and follow instructions, the descent is a safe, family-friendly, and fun activity.

No, you can’t go down the Sella River at just any time: navigation is regulated. Here are the key details:

⏰  Permitted hours during the recreational season

These are the official hours, established by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Cantábrico and adopted by the companies:

• Start of navigation: from 11:00 a.m., with continuous departures until:

  • between 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., depending on the company.

• End of navigation: all canoes must be out of the water no later than 6:00 p.m.

This means it’s not permitted to start before 11:00 a.m. or to remain on the river after 6:00 p.m.

🕐 Why these hours?

• They comply with fishing regulations and river protection rules, and also help avoid overlapping with federated training sessions.

✅ Summary

You can’t go down the river at just any time: you may start between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00–2:30 p.m., depending on the company, and must be out of the water before 6:00 p.m.. These timeframes ensure a safe, regulated activity that is in harmony with the environment and other users.