Day Sunset or Night
Private Adventure

Everything you need is covered: kayak, paddle, life jacket, a short on-land lesson, and a 60-minute guided river trip. The full experience lasts 90 minutes from check-in to finish. Guides stay with you the whole time and take group photos during the trip.

A: 100% of the trip times available are shown right here on this page. These times are based on tidal currents, which control when it’s safe to paddle. We can only run trips about every 6–7 hours, depending on the moon cycle. We can adjust the start time by 30 minutes earlier or later for private trips, but not more.

A: Soloists are welcome! Come alone or bring up to 60 people for a private trip.
For 31-60 people: We accommodate from 31 to 60 people by running two back-to-back trips.
For 61-100 people: We’ll mix trips, a kayak or paddleboard class, and rentals for a half-day. Email or chat with us.

Plan for at least 90 minutes total. That includes time for outfitting, a short on-land lesson, and around 60 minutes on the water. You’re welcome to arrive up 10 minutes early and stick around for up to 10 minutes after your trip wraps up, meaning 2 hours in total for a nice, relaxed arrival and departure.

To reserve your spot, full payment is required online. If you’re seriously considering a slot, we recommend booking at least two weeks ahead, especially for weekends and evenings. We don’t put unofficial holds on trips.

Hydration and energy are important—especially those arriving straight from school or work or without time for a proper break. Light, picnic-style snacks are welcome before or after your trip, as long as there’s no catering, alcohol, or single-use plastics (including bottles, utensils, or containers). If you plan to arrange a delivery, let us know in advance. While we don’t set up, serve, or clean up food, we do need to be aware of your plans.

Yes—we offer rentals too–but rentals stay within a sheltered cove near shore. They’re great for kids, beginners, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly float.
Going out on the Hudson River is different. There’s boat traffic, tidal currents, and changing conditions, so it’s not something we allow without a guide from start to finish. Our guided trips are your best option for exploring the skyline, getting out on the river, and sharing the experience with others. You’ll kayak together and see NYC in a way that’s safe, social, and unforgettable.

Location: Pier 84 Boathouse in Hudson River Park, 555 12th Ave @ W44th St

Google Maps Link: https://g.page/manhattankayak/

Trips meet at Pier 84 Boathouse in the Hudson River Park in Manhattan. While the boathouse is out on the pier itself, the nearest cross-streets are West 44th Street and 12th Avenue. The nearest landmark is the Intrepid Aircraft Carrier.

No need to arrive early — just show up at the time listed. But if anyone wants to change clothes, decompress, or eat a snack before the trip, you’re welcome to arrive up to 15 minutes early. Your group is welcome to hang out on the deck or in the lounge while you get settled.

You’re welcome to make changes to your booking using the link in your confirmation email up to 72 hours before the trip starts. After that point, we don’t offer refunds, credits for changes in group size, or deposit refunds—regardless of whether it’s a public or private booking. Latecomers will not not admitted.

Yes. All trips include trained guides who stay with you from start to finish. They’ll help with outfitting, launching, and even teach a short lesson to get everyone comfortable before heading out.

No experience needed. Most people are total beginners, and it always goes smoothly. Our stable kayaks and expert guides make it easy and fun, even if you’ve never been on the water before. Experienced folks can even choose sea kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.

No problem, swimming skills aren’t required. Everyone wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejacket that keeps you floating, even if you’re not moving. We’ve safely guided thousands of non-swimmers of all ages.

You’ll use easy, stable sit-on-top kayaks—either singles or doubles. They’re ideal for beginners of all ages, sizes, and strength levels. Private groups cannot choose during checkout, but can let us know at least 72 hours ahead. Otherwise, we’ll give a balanced mix and help people pair up on the day.

Experienced folks can even choose sea kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.

We’ll never ask you to go out in showers or unsafe weather — period. We always make thoughtful, up-to-date weather decisions and communicate closely when the forecast looks bad. Otherwise, our 72-hour cancellation policy applies.

Yes—every adult (18+) must sign a waiver. You’ll get a link after booking–please share it with your group.

Signing ahead of time means fast check-in and better vibes. It prevents phone fumbling at the boathouse and lets everyone stay present with the group.

Tip: About 2–3 days before your trip, reach out to us and we’ll send a list of who has signed. That way, you can nudge any stragglers.