EIRIK HANSEN

Born in 1995 Bergen, Norway Eirik Hansen is a world-class kayaker, fueled by the freedom, adrenaline, and raw power of the river. Competing at the highest level, setting Norwegian records, and paddling some of the world’s most extreme rivers, he is a relentless force in the sport. But beyond the adventure lies a deeper reality.

His dedication extends beyond the rapids, earning recognition for his filmmaking and storytelling. Through award-winning films and impactful talks, he shares the beauty and intensity of life on the river. His achievements have placed him among the top adventurers of his time.

For Eirik, it’s not just about paddling—it’s about protecting the wild rivers that have shaped him. As untouched waterways disappear, he fights to keep them free, just as he fights to live life to the fullest. His journey is far from over. With bold goals ahead his greatest mission remains the same:

TO GO BIG AND COME HOME!

Selected Achievements

Major Competition Results

  • World Championships, Whitewater Kayaking

    • 2024 & 2023 – Finalist, 6th place. All-time best Norwegian male result.

  • European Championships, Whitewater Kayaking

    • 2019 – Finalist, 15th place in one of Europe's most prestigious competitions.

  • King Of The Alps 2025

    • 2nd place (team race), 5th place (sprint)

  • Ekstremsportsveko 2023

    • Finalist - 6th place

Expeditions & First Descents

  • Pakistan (Rondu Gorge)

    • 2024 – Successfully navigated the Rondu Gorge twice; only Norwegian to do so.

    • 2020 – Youngest Norwegian to kayak Rondu Gorge, considered the toughest kayaking in the world.

  • Iceland Expedition 2024

    • Discovered and first-descented four new waterfalls.

  • India 2022

    • Explored the upper branches of the Brahmaputra river in Arunachal Pradesh - 2 month self support expedition.

  • Canada 2022

    • Kayaked “the everest of kayaking” the Stikine river in BC

Film & Media

  • Waterwalker Film Festival 2024

    • Winner – Best River Kayaking Film for Calling of Arunachal, celebrating storytelling and expedition kayaking

Awards & Recognition

  • Adventurer of the Year - Eventyraften

    • 2023 & 2024 – Finalist; recognized for expeditions and contributions to adventure on the river.

  • Kayaksession Paddler of the Year 2024

    • Finalist

  • Kayaksession Reel world of the Year 2024

    • Winner