April Registration Kicks Off

Just like in previous years, there is a required registration for floating on the section of the Teplá Vltava that runs from Soumarský Most to the bridge at Pěkná. Only those vessels that have registered can navigate this section when water levels are between 50 and 61 cm. The Otava and Vydra rivers also have a modified rafting system in place. You can register online through the registration system, which will be available on the NP Šumava website starting 1 April 2025, or you can register in person during the authorized rafting hours at Soumarský Most at the boarding point, but only if there are available spots on the river (meaning there are unoccupied places).

You can register online through the electronic booking system on the npsumava.cz site, but you must do this by 3:00 PM the day before your planned trip. The electronic registrations are set for water levels ranging from 50 to 61 cm, allowing a maximum of 7 boats per hour; for levels above 61 cm, bookings will automatically switch to a maximum of 20 boats per hour, and additional boats can only be registered on-site. If the water level drops below 50 cm, rafting is not permitted (as measured at the Soumarský Most gauging station).

From Soumarák to Pěkná for 600 or 700 CZK

Visitors can enjoy the Vltava River in the section from the Soumarský Bridge to Pěkná on weekends throughout May, and every day starting in June, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The departures are allowed every hour, precisely on the hour, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The registration for vessels depends on the water conditions. When water levels are between 50 and 60.9 cm, you can register online for a fee of 600 CZK (if you choose to register on-site on the day of your trip, the fee will be 700 CZK per boat). If the water level exceeds 61 cm, registration can only be conducted on-site at a cost of 700 CZK per boat. Your registration stamp must be placed on the front tip of the boat, and only one current stamp is allowed per vessel.

The reason this fee is set high, according to the managers of the Šumava National Park, is due to the ongoing maintenance of this beautiful way to explore the Šumava area. Conservationists monitor the area to safeguard valuable nature, especially the pearl mussel, as well as the entire ecosystem of the upper Vltava River. The interest from tourists and boaters like you plays a big role in this effort.

Should the registered rafting conditions not be met—such as water levels falling below 50 cm or rising above 61 cm—registration will be automatically canceled, and your payment will be refunded. Registrants are also permitted to cancel their registration up to one week prior to their booked date for a full refund. Each registered vessel will receive a registration tag at the Soumar Bridge boarding point, which should be displayed visibly at the front of the boat.

What is the current status of the upper section of the Vltava and other rivers in the Šumava National Park?

The upper reaches of the Teplá Vltava have less strict regulations—floating is unrestricted from Polka to Borová Lada and boats can navigate this section on weekends between March 15 and May 31, operating daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

For the section Lenora – Soumarský Most, you first need to confirm that the Vltava has a water level of more than 45 cm, which you can check at the water gauge at Soumarský Most. This is applicable daily from May 1 to October 31 during the time from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

In addition, other rivers in the Šumava National Park also have some minor restrictions. The Otava River between Čeňkova Pila and Rejštejn can be floated without restrictions from March 15 to October 31, operating from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Meanwhile, the Vydra River between Modrava and Antýgl is accessible only on Saturdays and Sundays from March 15 to October 31, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Paddling on the Teplá Vltava in Šumava

Season & Location Details

• Kayaking Season (Teplá Vltava Segment):

  • Duration: May 1 – October 31, 2025

  • Segment: From Soumarský Bridge to Pěkná on the Teplá Vltava

• Additional Boating:

  • Boating is also available on the Otava and Vydra rivers under similar regulations

  • Unrestricted boating from Polka to Borová Lada is allowed between March 15 and May 31

Registration Requirements

• Mandatory Registration:

  • Registration is required to raft on the Teplá Vltava segment

  • Only registered boats can float when water levels are between 50 and 61 cm

• Registration Process:

  • Online Registration: Opens on April 1, 2025

  • On-Site Registration: Available if spots remain

  • Capacity: When water levels exceed 61 cm, registration is limited to a maximum of 20 boats per hour

Water Level Regulations & Fees

• Water Level 50 – 60.9 cm:

  • Online Registration Cost: 600 CZK

• Water Level Above 61 cm:

  • On-Site Registration Cost: 700 CZK

  • Note: Registration will be canceled and refunded if the water level is not within the acceptable range (50-61 cm)

Additional Information

• Soumarský Bridge:

  • A historic road bridge crossing the Teplá Vltava River, located approximately 5 km west of Volary

This organized overview covers all the essential details for paddling on the Teplá Vltava, including registration, water level guidelines, and season dates, ensuring a smooth planning experience for kayakers.