Frequently asked questions
Do you provide shuttles?
Yes, we offer canoe and kayak shuttle service to the White River! Shuttles are for Float Eureka rentals only, we are unable to offer shuttles for private boats. Shuttles depart at 10am and 12pm each day and cost $15 per person; please arrive 15 minutes prior to shuttle departure. If you take the 10am shuttle, we will pick you up at the river at 2pm, and for the 12pm shuttle we will pick you up from the river at 4pm. Alternatively, you can rent boats from Float Eureka to pick up and transport yourself to any river or lake - information about Destinations to explore is located on our website! Our inflatable stand up paddleboards easily roll up into a small size and fit inside any vehicle - they don't require a shuttle and are a great option for the lake!
How many people fit in a canoe?
Our canoes fit 2 adults and some may be able to accomodate 2 adults and 1 child. We get the question a lot "Can my __ year old ride in the canoe with me?" The answer is - it's really up to you. You should consider the size of your child; younger kids tend to be just fine. It also depends on your skill and confidence handling the boat. We do not allow more than 2 adults (or adult-sized people) in our canoes; this exceeds the weight and stability design of the boats and makes them easier to tip. Please note that if you plan to use the shuttle and your child needs a seat in the shuttle, you need to reserve a seat on the shuttle for your child when booking.
Do I need racks on my vehicle or a truck to transport my own boats?
Typically, yes. In order to rent kayaks or canoes and transport them in your own vehicle, you will need a truck bed (note - a short bed is too short to transport some of our canoes) to load the boats in or racks (with cross-bars) on top of your vehicle to strap the boats onto. We also ask that you have previous experience transporting boats, although we will give you a refresher on the use of straps and we have NRS straps for sale in our shop if you need them when you pick up your boats. NOTE: our inflatable stand up paddleboards roll up about the size of a small rolled-up air mattress and will easily fit inside any trunk or vehicle. And our Lake Tubes are even smaller! SUPs are a great option if you to explore the lakes around Eureka on your own terms. Lake Tubes are a great way to chill and swim by a shoreline
How long can I rent a boat for?
We provide Multi Day rental options for 2 days, 3 days, and up to 4 days! This is a great option to rent boats for a multi-day float on another Arkansas waterway such as the Buffalo, upper Kings River, or Mulberry River, or if you are camping near Eureka and want to rent some boats to use for your entire camp trip. You can easily book each of these rental options online - check our book now page! If you need to keep a boat during the week when we're not normally open, contact us and we'll do our best to work with you!
What if I damage your gear or return equipment late?
When you rent from Float Eureka, you are responsible for taking care of the boats and equipment (paddle, life jacket, and stand up paddleboard pumps). If you lose or damage a boat or equipment, you are responsible for the repair or replacement cost of the boat or equipment whether or not the damage or loss was your fault. Your credit card will be charged for the repair or replacement cost of any damaged boat or equipment and you authorize Float Eureka to charge any costs to your credit card. The office closes at 5pm on Thurs, Fri, and Sunday and 6pm on Saturday; boats must be back before this time or they are subject to a per boat late fee (we have had issues with people not returning equipment on time).
How do I choose the right boat for me?
All of our boats (kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards) are suitable for all skill levels — whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner that’s never tried paddleboarding. Our website will help you determine what to expect when handling each of our boats. There’s a different experience associated with each, so we encourage you to think about what type of experience you’re seeking, explore our website to see what boat is right for you, and, of course, come consult with our staff! Make sure you come back and try a different boat on your next trip!
Can I cancel my reservation?
We are unable to accept cancellations less than 72 hours before the start of your rental. Please note that we are unable to offer refunds for inclement weather. ***In order for us to best serve you, please EMAIL us with any cancellation or adjustment requests. We are unable to take cancellations over the phone.*** Please note that refunds will incur a 4% credit card processing fee - this is a fee charged by the credit card companies, it is not money we keep.
What gear should I bring?
Each of our boat rentals comes with a paddle, life jacket, and mesh bags for river trips but there’s other gear you might need while you’re out on the water! We sell sunscreen, sunglasses, koozies, cell phone dry cases, a variety of baseball hats to protect you from the sun, some awesome straw Tula hats which provide great sun protection, and we also rent and sell dry bags at our office. We rent badass coolers that will keep your beverages ice-cold all day long and we also sell coolers at our store - free ice on site for cooler rentals or sales! Please dress for appropriate weather and water conditions and bring plenty of water or fluids to hydrate. We try to keep long sleeve sun shirts in stock for purchase at our shop, which also provide great sun protection.
Where can I take a stand up paddleboard?
Lots of places! Beaver Lake, Lake Leatherwood, Hogscald Hollow, and Beaver town are our top recommendations. Our staff can help you choose which spot is the best for your group! We DO NOT rent stand up paddleboards for the White River.
Do you rent dog life jackets?
Yes, Float Eureka rents dog life jackets! Bring your dog on the float and keep them safe in the water with the NRS Dog Life Jacket rental from Float Eureka. Includes a carry/grab handle on the top of the life jacket, and a leashe attachment point for leash use when your furry friend is on land. Please do not ever tie your dog to your boat; your dog must be able to swim out of and away from the boat if you tip!
Should I tip my shuttle driver?
If you want to definitely yes! Though tips are not expected, they are valued and a good way to let them know you appreciate the good service they are providing.
ARKANSAS BOATING LAWS
You must have a life jacket on board your kayak, canoe, or stand up paddleboard for each person on board the vessel.
Children 12 years old and younger must wear a life jacket that is properly secured while on board the vessel.
You are prohibited from bringing glass containers on rivers and lakes except containers for substances prescribed by a licensed physician.
If you have a beverage, you must keep it in a floating beverage holder or a beverage holder that is designed not to sink (such as a beverage holder with a wearable strap).
Coolers must have lids that lock or seal to keep the contents inside if the vessel tips over. Styrofoam coolers are prohibited. Trash must be kept in a mesh bag or a study container (i.e., a cooler) with a lid that locks or seals.
Float Eureka wants to help you comply with Arkansas boating laws and help us keep Arkansas's waterways clean! We include a life jacket for each person with our boat rentals . We have floating beverage holders for sale and mesh trash bags for use and sale. We also have coolers with lids that zip available for rent!
Please see Arkansas Code Annotated Sections 8-6-418 and 27-101-203 for additional information.