FAQ’s
Do you rent out kayaks for people who don’t want a guided paddle?
NO! We care about your safety and do not condone Kayaking on the Detroit River without a professional Kayak Guide.
What is the rate for a kayak excursion?
$50 per person for a 2 hour guided Excursion. Tandem kayaks are also $50 per person or $100 per tandem kayak. It includes everything you need for the 2-hour trip: guide(s), kayak, paddle, life jacket and safety gear. Longer excursions are also available.
What if I don’t have any paddle experience?
If this is your first time kayaking we strongly encourage paddling with a partner in a tandem kayak. The tandems are more stable and you and your partner can share the effort.
Is there a weight limit for paddling?
Most of our kayaks are rated for paddlers with a maximum weight of 230 to 275 lbs (depending on the kayak). We will work to ensure that you feel comfortable in your kayak by providing different options and styles of single or double kayaks. If you feel that you may need special accommodations due to weight please let us know ahead of time.
Can I bring my own kayak?
There’s a $20 fee to bring your kayak and it should be at least 12ft. long with at least a single bulkhead (double preferred) . If it’s an evening paddle you will also need to bring an attachable light.
What precautions do you take for COVID 19?
Kayaking is the perfect activity for times like this. You are not required at anytime to be in close contact with others. Our kayak launch has ample room to spread out
What’s your raincheck policy?
If the weather isn’t in our favor, we will make the call a minimum of 2 hours before the paddle and issue you a credit. You can use your credit towards any of our open paddles or reschedule your private group. Credits are valid for 1 year.
What’s the minimum and maximum number of guests allowed for private paddles?
A minimum of 6 paddlers are required to book a private excursion. The maximum number in a group using single kayaks is 10. We can book groups up to 18 people if some guests are willing to paddle in a double kayak. The price per person is the same whether you kayak in a single or double. Private Excursions are perfect for birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, corporate events, team building or just a great time with a group of your friends or family.
Do we have to bring our own paddle gear?
No need to. We supply everything you need to kayak the Detroit river. Guests are however encouraged to bring water or other favorite beverage to stay hydrated. Optional things to bring (based on the weather and conditions): a towel and/or change of clothes, sweater or jacket, sunblock, bug spray and sunglasses.
Do you need to be athletic and is it hard to paddle in the current?
You don’t have to be an athlete by any means but paddling the Detroit River does require some upper body strength, stamina and a bit of balance. If you have never kayaked before you may be a little sore the next day.
Where do you paddle?
We are located on the Detroit riverfront. We paddle through the historical canal district and also through Belle Isle.
Can we rent kayak storage from you?
Yes, we do have a limited # of spaces available for kayak storage. Please contact us for info.
What is your Cancellation policy?
We require 48hrs notice to cancel your reservation. If you cancel with at least 48hrs notice you will receive a credit valid for two years. We have lots of customers looking to book paddles so last minute cancellations are non-refundable.
What is an Open Paddle?
Open paddles are excursions that are scheduled on specific dates and times (see schedule on website) that are open for anyone to sign up for. Just find a date and time that works for you, sign up for an open slot and meet some new friends out on the river. Your guide will take weather and traffic into consideration and determine the best route for your excursion. We want to make sure you get the best out of your adventure.
Can I take my kids kayaking?
Absolutely. Most kids over age 12 are capable of paddling a single Kayak. Kids under the age of 12 should be with an adult in a tandem kayak. Pricing is the same for all ages.
If you have kids 10 and under we strongly suggest you request a Private Paddle. From experience, younger kids lose interest quickly or have a hard time sitting for 2 hrs in a boat. We take private family paddles to places where kids can get out, swim and even walk on the island for a bit. Kids don’t like to sit in one place for too long and they will just end up driving you nuts. Trust us, we’ve seen too many frustrated parents paddling with children. We would also encourage bringing a coast guard approved lifejacket that fits your child properly. The lifejackets we provide are adult sized.
How long are DO excursions?
Our paddles are anywhere from 3-6 miles depending on the water trail we choose and the ability of the guests. Standard excursions are about 2 to 2.5 hours (depending on conditions).